If you run a business in Canada, you’ve probably heard the term “due diligence” tossed around when talking about occupational health & safety (OH&S). But what does it actually mean—and why should you care more than just ticking a checkbox?
Let’s dive in.
In simple terms, due diligence in OH&S means you took all reasonable steps to keep workers safe. It’s more than paperwork—it’s about your actual efforts:
WorkSafeBC puts it well: "Due diligence requires taking all reasonable steps to protect workers from harm." (Open Alberta, bhhcsafetycenter.com, worksafebc.com, ontariohealthandsafety.com)
CCOHS extends that definition, saying employers must have written policies, audit regularly, provide training, empower supervisors, encourage reporting (even near-misses), and document everything (CCOHS).
That’s not bureaucracy—it’s solid risk management, legal protection, and a foundation for safety culture.
Data doesn't lie. According to the WHO/ILO, 374 million non-fatal work-related injuries happen annually, costing the global economy around 4% of GDP (worksafebc.com, Wikipedia). In Canada, fatal and serious incidents still occur—many of which are preventable.
Due diligence isn’t about paperwork—it saves lives and prevents pain.
Across provinces, OH&S laws make you responsible for "reasonably practicable" precautions.
In Alberta (OH&S Code Part 2 & 12), BC (Part 4, 8, 11), and federally (Canada Labour Code Part II), due diligence is a legal duty: breach it, and you’re potentially facing fines or criminal charges—as happened under Bill C‑45 (Westray amendments) (bhhcsafetycenter.com, Cassels, Wikipedia, Wikipedia).
Even owners can be held liable unless they can prove they did their due diligence (Cassels).
When staff see you actively managing hazards, training, and improving—not just posting policies—they feel safer and more engaged.
Clients and whomever they’re dealing with (contractors, insurers, regulators) also notice serious employers who demonstrate care. That’s credibility you can’t fake.
Here’s a quick snapshot of a robust due diligence program:
If you're nodding—"Yes, but it’s a lot!"—we get it. That’s where Calgary Safety Consultants come in.
We help you build or refine your OH&S manual, aligned with Alberta and BC regulations, COR standards, ISO 45001, and industry best practices. That includes policies, SWPs, JHAs, inspection tools, and audit programs. No fluff—just actionable tools.
Whether it's a warehouse full of door and window units or field installations, we conduct hazard assessments and site inspections, then hand over detailed reports and correction plans that support due diligence.
Supervisors do the heavy lifting—literally and figuratively. We provide training so they can identify risks, lead toolbox talks, and maintain compliance—exactly as WorkSafeBC expects (bhhcsafetycenter.com).
Got a close call or accident? We run objective investigations, identify root causes, document findings, and help implement controls to reduce future risk—all essential to due diligence .
Don’t worry about formatting or storing documents. We create inspection checklists, training logs, incident forms, and maintain version control—so your binder doesn’t just sit there gathering dust.
Due diligence is a cycle, not a one-time project. We run annual or semi-annual internal audits and support your continuous improvement process.
Let’s say company engages Calgary Safety Consultants. Here's what might unfold:
By the end, not only have you significantly reduced risk—you’ve got a well-documented due diligence framework, legal defensibility, and a safety-first culture.
What You Do | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
Identify hazards & control them | Prevents incidents before they happen |
Write policies, train, and supervise | Meets legal requirements and builds awareness |
Document inspections & incidents | Creates a clear record showing you cared |
Act on findings and update systems | Shows ongoing commitment and improvement |
Engage Calgary Safety Consultants | Get expert help and save time + risk |
Due diligence isn’t just administrative overhead—it’s your arsenal against accidents, audits, and liability. It saves money, lives, reputations, and sleep. And companies that embrace it—like Calgary Safety Consultants’ clients—see stronger safety culture, better retention, and client trust.
If you want to move your OH&S program from “we have a binder” to “we live by this every day,” give Calgary Safety Consultants a shout at calgarysafetyconsultants.ca. We’ll help you build a safety flagship—one that aligns with Alberta and BC regulations, supports ISO or COR ambitions, and protects the people who make your business succeed.
And if you need help getting there? We’ve got your back. Contact Calgary Safety Consultants for your complimentary consult to explore tailored OH&S solutions that drive real results.
Stay safe!
Stay safe out there—and if you want help nailing this down, we’re just one click away.
Due diligence in OH&S means taking all reasonable steps to protect workers from hazards. This includes policies, training, inspections, and incident response.
It prevents workplace injuries, ensures legal compliance under OH&S laws, and protects business owners from liability under Bill C-45.
Employers hold the primary responsibility, but supervisors and workers also share duties. Contractors must comply with company OH&S policies too.
Calgary Safety Consultants is here to help you ensure compliance, enhance safety, and streamline your OH&S program. Don’t wait—fill out the form, and we’ll connect with you to discuss how we can support your business. Let’s get started!
Calgary Safety Consultants delivers game-changing COR Audits and OH&S consulting designed to keep your business safe, compliant, and accident-free. With 30+ years of expertise in high-risk industries like oil & gas, construction, and manufacturing, we understand the unique challenges you face. We offer tailored safety solutions that not only meet regulatory standards but also reduce operational risks and protect your workforce. From conducting thorough safety audits to implementing comprehensive safety management systems, we ensure your team is fully supported. Our hands-on, collaborative approach means we're with you every step of the way, helping you achieve a safer, more efficient workplace. Let us handle the heavy lifting so your team stays protected, and your business thrives!
