OHSA 2025: Key Updates and What Engineers Need to Know

Introduction

Ontario’s Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) is the foundation of workplace safety regulations, and in 2025, several updates will impact engineers in construction and industrial settings. Understanding these changes is critical to ensuring compliance, reducing liabilities, and improving workplace safety.

Key Changes in OHSA 2025

1. Enhanced Fall Protection Requirements

• The Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD) has strengthened enforcement of CSA Z259.17 for fall protection system inspections.
• Annual inspections of fall arrest anchor points are now mandatory, ensuring safety compliance across industries.

2. Increased Penalties for Non-Compliance

• Companies failing to meet safety requirements could face fines of up to $2 million under Bill 88.
• Engineers must maintain proper hazard assessments to mitigate liability and demonstrate due diligence.

3. New Machine Guarding Standards

• Updates to CSA Z432: Safeguarding of Machinery introduce stricter safety requirements for industrial machinery.
• Employers must conduct risk assessments before commissioning new equipment to ensure compliance.

How Engineers Can Prepare

• ✅ Conduct Pre-Start Health & Safety Reviews (PHSR) under Ontario Regulation 851 to identify and mitigate risks.
• ✅ Implement CSA-compliant fall protection and machine safeguarding solutions.
• ✅ Stay informed through continuing professional development (CPD) and industry updates.

Conclusion

By proactively addressing these OHSA updates, engineers play a crucial role in workplace safety and regulatory compliance. For expert assistance with safety compliance, hazard mitigation, and PHSRs, consult HITE Engineering.