Ontario is working towards safer workplaces by focusing on protecting workers from hazards that can cause them to slip, trip or fall.

During a November blitz, health and safety inspectors will concentrate on transportation, education, industrial services, retail and wholesale workplaces.

Inspectors will look for fall-from-height hazards involving platforms, raised floors, mezzanines and ladders.  They will check fall-arrest equipment and guardrails and will be on the lookout for dangerous practices such as working on storage racks.  They will also check for proper use of ladders.

For each violation, the court can impose a fine of up to $500,000 against a corporation convicted under the Occupational Health and Safety Act.  Individuals face a fine of up to $25,000 or imprisonment of up to 12 months, or both.

This workplace inspection blitz is part of the province's Safe At Work Ontario compliance strategy.  Keeping more workers safe increases productivity for Ontario's economy and reduces strain on the health care system.