Special report spotlights companies at the forefront of workplace safety training
Canadian Occupational Safety has recognized the best workplace safety training providers in its annual "5-Star Safety and Training" report. These top trainers are lauded for their innovation, engagement, and practical approaches to improving workplace safety across a range of industries, from construction to healthcare.
Among the awardees, Tanya Steele, CEO of Steele Safety Solutions, emphasizes the importance of creating a psychologically safe learning environment: “Learning happens when people feel safe,” she says, explaining how her programs encourage workers to ask questions and participate actively. Her approach has been instrumental in fostering inclusive, hands-on learning environments where employees feel empowered to engage.
Curtis Weber, founder of High Voltage Consulting, takes a different approach, focusing on high-risk scenario simulations. “It’s not enough to know the rules. Workers need to see how they apply in real-world situations,” Weber states. His use of simulations helps workers understand the complexities of high-risk tasks and how to handle them safely, providing a practical grounding in risk management.
Another standout program is run by VR Safety, a company utilizing cutting-edge virtual reality technology to train workers. Alex Chan, CEO of VR Safety, highlights how VR simulations allow employees to “practice hazardous tasks without the danger,” offering immersive, risk-free learning experiences that build confidence and competence.
Kate Morrison, Safety Training Lead at Morrison Safety Group, is praised for her modular training programs that break down complex safety regulations into bite-sized, digestible lessons. “The more complex the regulations, the more important it is to break them down into lessons workers can understand and apply in their roles,” says Morrison. Her programs are especially effective in industries with constantly evolving safety requirements, such as healthcare and energy.
The report highlights that businesses investing in high-quality safety training are seeing reduced workplace incidents, improved compliance with safety regulations, and higher employee morale. This shift toward fostering a proactive safety culture, where safety is a shared responsibility rather than just an obligation, is transforming workplaces across Canada.
The 5-Star Safety and Training awardees are not just teaching safety—they are shaping the future of how companies approach safety training, ensuring that employees are prepared, engaged, and empowered to create safer working environments.
For more details on these award-winning programs, visit Canadian Occupational Safety’s full report here.
