September 20, 2004

Web site has construction link

Workplace Gateway launched

BY GRANT CAMERON

STAFF WRITER

The Ontario government has launched a new Web site that provides information about workplace safety, employment standards and consumer protection.

Labour Minister Chris Bentley says the site, dubbed the Workplace Gateway, is a one-stop access point for various industry sectors, including construction.

“This is furthering the education and training of the whole community, particularly the employer community, with respect to employment standards and occupational health and safety issues,” said Bentley.

“It is a platform that we can build upon in the future to help businesses become more efficient and government more effective.”

The site combines links to a number of Web-based resources. A construction link leads to detailed information about such things as how to start a business or project, licences and trade qualifications, project notification, taxes, and health and safety laws.

The site can be accessed at: www.cbs.gov.on.ca/obc/ english/workplacegateway/in dex.htm

The Workplace Gateway outlines the responsibilities of both employers and workers under Ontario law to help ensure employment standards and workplace safety requirements are being met.

The Web site also provides answers to frequently asked questions about health and safety, pay and benefits and other topics.

John Macnamara, president of the Business Council on Occupational Health and Safety, said the ministries involved in developing the site have built an exceptional Web-based tool that is a great step forward. It will help people and businesses across the province access meaningful information with respect to health and safety requirements and practices, he said.

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