PUC Services Inc., Elexicon Energy, and Ottawa Community Housing were among several organizations honoured by the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) for their efforts in promoting electrical safety at the 2024 Ontario Electrical Safety Awards. The awards, presented on September 19 in Mississauga, highlighted leadership in worker safety, consumer protection, and safety innovations in Ontario’s energy sector.
The awards ceremony, held as part of the ESA’s Annual Meeting, featured remarks from ESA Chair Arjan Arenja, CEO Josie Erzetic, and Ontario Minister of Public and Business Service Delivery and Procurement, Todd J. McCarthy.
Eric Kingston, ESA’s Vice President of Operations, presented awards in categories including worker safety, consumer and home safety, and powerline safety. Special recognition was given to Ottawa Community Housing for its proactive approach to safety in rental housing.
Promoting worker safety
PUC Services Inc. received the Worker Safety Award for its campaign focused on raising awareness about road worker safety. The campaign, centred in Sault Ste. Marie, featured personalized videos from road workers urging drivers to be more cautious around road work zones. The initiative brought together various local organizations, including emergency services and the city’s construction association, to drive home the importance of attentiveness to prevent accidents.
Educational efforts in consumer and home safety
Elexicon Energy was honoured with the Consumer and Home Safety Award for its contributions to the Children’s Safety Villages in Belleville and Durham Region. The company provided electrical equipment, educational sessions, and financial support, allowing children to learn about electrical safety through interactive play and hands-on experiences. The initiative aims to teach young people how to safely interact with powerlines and avoid dangerous electrical situations at home.
Powerline safety in a large-scale project
Bluewater Power, Hydro One, and London Hydro shared the Powerline Safety Award for their work in transporting massive beer tanks from Sarnia Harbour to the Labatt Brewery in London. The project required meticulous coordination to manage powerlines along the route, employing best practices to ensure public safety while minimizing disruptions. Public communication efforts included automated calls and written notices to keep affected residents informed.
Commitment to licensed contractor safety
Mellon Inc. was recognized with the Licensed Electrical Contractor Recognition Award for its comprehensive approach to employee safety. The company integrates regular safety training, mentorship, and a strong incident reporting system into its operations. Recent efforts have focused on psychological safety, highlighting the impact of mental health on workplace safety and decision-making.
Improving safety in rental housing
Ottawa Community Housing received the Public Safety Officer Special Recognition Award for significant improvements in electrical safety across its properties, which house over 32,000 tenants. By integrating ESA’s Continuous Safety Services program into its operations, the organization reduced electrical defects and defect correction times, achieving a significant cultural shift in how safety is approached in rental housing.
Minister McCarthy acknowledged the recipients, stating that their efforts contribute to Ontario’s high safety standards. “The remarkable efforts of our award recipients to enhance public electrical safety in Ontario are invaluable to upholding the peace of mind of our residents and communities,” he said.
The ESA’s role in enhancing electrical safety across the province includes administering regulations related to the Ontario Electrical Safety Code, licensing contractors, and promoting safety through education and training.