Safety takes centre stage as ETRO tackles BC Place renovations

ETRO Construction is currently facing one of its most ambitious projects to date: a complex series of renovations at Vancouver's iconic BC Place Stadium. With major events like Taylor Swift’s sold-out concerts in December and the FIFA World Cup 2026 looming, the firm is under pressure to deliver precision planning and flawless execution, all while managing significant safety challenges in a live, operational venue.

Mike Maierle, president of ETRO Construction, says safety is at the forefront of every decision. "We've broken the project down into about 30 phases of work to ensure that not only are we meeting the stadium’s event schedule, but we're also keeping public safety as a top priority," Maierle explains. The renovations include upgrades to food and beverage areas, dressing rooms, VIP clubs, and field-side clubs, among others, and span hundreds of thousands of square feet across multiple levels of the stadium.

Managing the flow of materials and equipment presents its own set of risks. "We have eight to ten forklifts and boom lifts operating on any one level at any given time," says Maierle. “Keeping our workers and the public safe when we’re moving heavy equipment around such a busy space requires constant communication and coordination." This effort is amplified by the stadium’s operational status, meaning that construction phases are strategically planned around major events, such as the Grey Cup in November 2024 and Taylor Swift’s three consecutive concerts shortly after.

To minimize disruption and ensure safety, ETRO has adopted a modular approach to the more complex parts of the renovation, such as structural demolition and reconstruction. Prefabricated elements are craned into place and swiftly installed during short windows between events. "We treat this more like a manufacturing process. We come in, complete the work, and make everything look pristine again before the next event," Maierle adds.

One of the most critical aspects of safety management at BC Place is the collaborative relationship between ETRO and BC Place's internal safety team. "Although we're the prime contractor, we're working very closely with their safety department," Maierle notes. "If there's an incident, we need to be ready to respond quickly, and that requires seamless coordination with their team."

With as many as 400 construction workers expected to be on site next year, ensuring everyone follows the same safety protocols is key. ETRO works with both unionized and non-unionized workers, but as Maierle emphasizes, "we don’t differentiate when it comes to safety. Everyone is treated the same, and communication is critical to making sure that message is clear across the board." This includes regular toolbox talks, thorough safety orientations, and constant feedback loops to ensure best practices are followed.

The scale of the project and the high-profile events surrounding it mean that safety cannot afford to be an afterthought. "We’ve got to make sure that everyone—from our own staff to subcontractors to the stadium employees—is working safely. It’s a massive undertaking, but it’s one we’re fully committed to managing," says Maierle.

With FIFA 2026 fast approaching, the upgrades to BC Place are designed not only to enhance fan experiences but also to improve accessibility and player facilities. As Vancouver positions itself as a prime destination for international events, ETRO Construction's role in maintaining rigorous safety standards will be crucial in delivering a world-class stadium—without compromising the well-being of those working on site. "This is a once-in-a-lifetime project, and we’re proud to be the ones making it happen—safely," adds Maierle.