In an era where the landscape of workplace safety is continuously transforming, the Canadian Safety Summit 2024 emerges as a pivotal gathering for safety professionals seeking to navigate the challenges and harness the opportunities of this evolving industry.
As workplace safety standards continue to evolve at a rapid pace, the urgency for cutting-edge safety strategies and solutions has never been greater. The summit serves as a critical platform for safety leaders across all industries, providing an unparalleled opportunity to share knowledge, inspire change, and drive progress.
Learn how to overcome the most pressing challenges in safety, leverage AI for enhanced safety processes, integrate ESG, DEI, and mental wellness into your safety programs and so much more at this year’s summit.
Join today and revolutionize your approach to workplace safety in 2024.
Receive in-depth analysis and leading-edge content on the most recent developments in workplace safety
Gain actionable strategies and real-world education from seasoned professionals
Connect with industry leaders and peers for unmatched networking and business development opportunities
Discover practical advice to implement immediately in your workplace for immediate impact
Empower yourself with knowledge to navigate the evolving landscape of workplace safety and wellness effectively
Explore the role of artificial intelligence, wearable technologies, and smart robots in revolutionizing safety processes
Learn how to create an integrated approach to psychological safety, addressing stress, anxiety, and burnout
Understand the implications of recent legal developments, including the Greater Sudbury case, and how they affect your safety obligations
Dive into the expanding roles of safety professionals within the frameworks of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives
Discover how to design safety programs that cater to the diverse needs of a multigenerational workforce, fostering a cohesive and inclusive culture
Chief Operating Officer (GO Transit and UP Express) & Chief Safety and Security Officer
Metrolinx
Chief Operating Officer (GO Transit and UP Express) & Chief Safety and Security Officer
Metrolinx
As Chief Operating Officer for GO Transit and the Union Pearson (UP) Express, Martin ensures the delivery of approximately fifteen thousand weekly rail and bus services to customers all over the GTHA. This includes the operation of stations and facilities across eight rail corridors and thirty-two bus routes encompassing four different rail and bus fleets with nearly one hundred locomotive engines, one thousand rail coaches and nearly five hundred GO Bus vehicles being operated and maintained daily. This includes responsibility for an annual ridership of 70 million customers across the network and over three thousand staff supporting or delivering the frontline operation. In addition to this, in the combined role of Chief Operating and Chief Safety Officer Martin has oversight of enterprise safety, including the largest capital expansion program in North America.
Martin chaired the United Nations expert committee on Rail Operations and Safety from 2014 and spent over ten years as National Head of Safety for Network Rail in the UK where he oversaw the organizational transformation to become rated by The European Rail Agency (ERA) as the safest rail company in Europe. He has also worked in Japan, Australia, Norway, Switzerland, Italy, France, Finland, and New Zealand.
Martin has a Bachelor of Science (Hons) and a Master of Science in Safety and Risk Management. He is certified in engineering safety management, construction safety, construction design management and safety management systems.
Director National Health and Safety
Purolator
Director National Health and Safety
Purolator
Jimmy Vassilopoulos is the current National H&S Director for Purolator. With over 20 years of H&S experience he specializes in Behaviour Based Safety, Risk Control and Transportation Safety in the courier industry. Jimmy is currently leading Purolator through a transformational advancement in risk control through a highly customized defensive driving training program and strategic initiatives to reinforce safe behaviour through technology. Many of these initiatives are being applied to both drivers as well as inside manual employees. Since Jimmy started with Purolator in 2022, the organization has experienced a record year in safety metrics.
Prior Purolator, Jimmy lead the H&S department for UPS Canada for 12 years and previous to that worked as a H&S lead in Europe for various industries such as transportation, hospitality and leisure. He is currently involved projects using AI and predictive analytics to control risk for next generation safety initiatives.
President & CEO
Workplace Safety & Prevention Services
President & CEO
Workplace Safety & Prevention Services
Jody Young is the President & CEO, Workplace Safety & Prevention Services. She is a health and safety leader with over 30 years of experience in both public and private sectors. Most recently, she held the role of Assistant Deputy Minister, Employment and Training Division with the Ontario Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. In that role, she provided strategic leadership to the transformation of Employment Services in Ontario. She has extensive experience leading large teams, oversight of transfer payment arrangements, and organizational transformation. Jody also brings a participative and inclusive leadership style, a deep understanding of the sector and strong technical expertise.
Area EHS Manager, Canada
Microsoft
Area EHS Manager, Canada
Microsoft
Chandan Uprety serves as the Area EHS Manager at Microsoft Canada, leading a dedicated team of EHS professionals on Microsoft’s growing Hyperscale Data Center construction projects, which are crucial to Microsoft Azure cloud and AI initiatives.
His expertise in reducing workplace injuries and promoting a robust safety culture has been demonstrated on complex multi-billion-dollar projects. Chandan firmly believes that safety is not just a moral obligation but also provides a competitive business edge.
Having recently completed his MBA and holding a BASc in Occupational Health & Safety from TMU, Chandan’s career is marked by a commitment to continuous learning and curiosity. His diverse experience spans automotive manufacturing, public sector infrastructure, and the energy sector, allowing him to lead with empathy and a focus on safety. His global perspective, enriched by international work experience, drives his approach to fostering inclusive and safe work environments.
He is passionate about networking, mentoring emerging professionals, and encourages connections on LinkedIn to share insights into the field.
Safety Analyst
Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada
Safety Analyst
Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada
Director, EHS
Aecon Group Inc.
Director, EHS
Aecon Group Inc.
Stephen Agla is a seasoned professional in the construction industry with over 20 years of experience both in the field and at the leadership level. An early work assignment to build company safety manuals sparked his interest in Health & Safety and changed the path of his career in construction.
Since joining AECON in 2014, Stephen has served as a Health and Safety (H&S) Advisor on projects within sectors such as transportation and rail, commercial office, and energy; lending his expertise to such projects as the Waterloo Light Rail Transit and the Union Station Train Shed Revitalization. In addition to his extensive training and policy accomplishments, Stephen championed AECON’s widespread mental health initiatives.
Now serving as Director of Health and Safety for the ONxpress GO Expansion, one of Canada’s largest infrastructure projects, Stephen’s commitment to both physical and mental safety within the construction industry remains as strong as ever.
Senior Manager, National Health and Safety
HelloFresh Canada
Senior Manager, National Health and Safety
HelloFresh Canada
Strategic Advisor OHS
Correctional Services, Department of Justice, Nova Scotia
Strategic Advisor OHS
Correctional Services, Department of Justice, Nova Scotia
Robin Angel MSc. CRSP, is a safety professional with over 30 years’ experience in occupational health & safety (OHS). Robin has a Master of Science degree from Royal Roads University (British Columbia) and a Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Guelph (Ontario) and Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) Certification from Queens University (Ontario).
Robin has worked in chemical manufacturing, oil and gas exploration, oil refinery operations, manufacturing, and provincial and federal governments in the areas of safety, occupational hygiene, international auditing of safety, environmental and quality management systems. Robin has instructed university courses in Industrial Hygiene, Measurement & Analysis, Occupational Health, Safety Systems and Risk Management.
Robin is currently employed with the Nova Scotia Department of Justice as Strategic Advisor Occupational Health and Safety with the oversight of more than 500 employees. In 2022 and 2023 Robin was awarded the Canadian Occupational Safety Top Woman in Safety award and she was presented with the Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Medal in recognition of significant service to the province and service during COVID.
SVP Operations
Martin-Brower of Canada Co
SVP Operations
Martin-Brower of Canada Co
Rob Cathcart is the SVP of Operations at Martin Brower Canada, a leading Supply Chain and Logistics services provider to some of the world’s largest restaurant brands. At MB Canada, in addition to day-to-day operations, he is responsible for National Health and Safety, Quality, Project Management, and Fleet and Facilities Management.
Rob has more than 25 years of experience in various roles in operations leadership, quality management, process improvement, and safety management. He has worked in various industries including plastics, automotive, and food processing and logistics.
VP of Human Resources
Lais Hotel Properties Limited (Vintage Hotels)
VP of Human Resources
Lais Hotel Properties Limited (Vintage Hotels)
Dianna Dymond is Vice President of Human Resources for Lais Hotel Properties Limited (LHPL). Dianna joined LHPL in March 2003 and through her tenure she has received subsequent promotions, Human Resources Manager in 2005, Director of Human Resources in 2015, and assumed her role as Vice President of Human Resources in October 2020.
Dianna is responsible for creating strategic Human Resources direction and is responsible to lead talent acquisition, learning & development, compliance and drive impact for the overall employee experience. Achieving business goals through employees is a vital element in the success of the group.
Dianna is a graduate of the Business Administration-Human Resources Management Program at Niagara College and a member of the Human Resources Professionals Association of Ontario holding CHRL & CHRP designations. She is currently an Executive Advisory committee member for WSPS Tourism & Hospitality. She has served previously on the Board of Directors for Big Brothers Big Sisters and Association Chair of the Hospitality Human Resources Professionals of Niagara.
Dianna is passionate about fostering and empowering positive relationships and cultivating opportunities for growth.
Consultant supporting Support Ontario Youth and Literacy Links South Central with Partnerships & Stakeholders
Consultant supporting Support Ontario Youth and Literacy Links South Central with Partnerships & Stakeholders
VP, Sustainability, Quality & Community
Dexterra Group
VP, Sustainability, Quality & Community
Dexterra Group
As a seasoned executive with a passion for sustainability and process improvement, Manasi brings a wealth of experience to the top level of organizations. She have a proven track record of leading change and implementing effective strategies that drive both sustainability and business success. Her expertise combined with her understanding of engineering process efficiencies allows Manasi to develop solutions that are not only environmentally responsible but also drive operational efficiency and profitability.
Manasi has a proven ability to engage and influence stakeholders at all levels of an organization and her communication skills ensure that complex concepts are clearly understood and embraced by executives, employees, and stakeholders. She is a strategic thinker with the ability to develop and implement innovative solutions that drive sustainable change and position organizations for long-term success. Manasi is the Vice President, Sustainability, Quality & Community at Dexterra Group and holds a CRSP (Certified Registered Safety Professional), a Master of Business Administration and was named 2022 Top Women in Safety by Canadian Occupational Safety. She enjoys public speaking and has presented at the Canadian Sustainability Conference, BCRSP’s NES Symposium and CANECT to name a few. She is a trained Climate Leader through the Climate Reality Project and has volunteered with organizations such as Junior Achievement Canada, BOMA Canada, Professional Engineers of Ontario and continues to volunteer with Threads of Life, My Safe Work and Rotary.
Senior Journalist
Canadian Occupational Safety
Senior Journalist
Canadian Occupational Safety
Partner
Dentons LLP
Partner
Dentons LLP
Adrian is a partner in the Toronto Employment group of Dentons Canada LLP. He advises and represents public- and private-sector employers in occupational health and safety (OHS) and employment matters.
Ranked in Lexpert for occupational health and safety and in Best Lawyers in Canada and The Legal 500 Canada for labour and employment law, Adrian helps minimize litigation through his practical approach and thorough analytical skills. He is a strong advocate for clients before courts and tribunals when litigation is the best option. He provides personalized and effective advice by understanding not only the operations and structures of his clients’ businesses, but also their strategic and business objectives.
Adrian regularly appears before Ontario courts and employment tribunals on behalf of employers. Over the course of his career, he has represented employers, constructors, directors and supervisors charged with OHS offenses, working toward a result that manages the legal, personal and public relations risks.
Adrian has been an adjunct professor of employment law at Western University. He is the co-editor of Dentons’ OHS blog, occupationalhealthandsafetylaw.com, and has co-authored three books on employment law topics.
Adrian regularly shares his expertise at conferences. He currently sits on the board of his neighbourhood association in Toronto and is a past director of The Scott Mission and Yonge Street Mission.
Executive Vice President of Health and Safety, Valard Construction Group of Companies
Canada Regional Director Health & Safety, Quanta Services, Inc.
Executive Vice President of Health and Safety, Valard Construction Group of Companies
Canada Regional Director Health & Safety, Quanta Services, Inc.
Shilo Neveu serves as the Executive Vice President of Health and Safety for the Valard Construction Group of Companies and holds the role of Quanta Services Regional Safety Director – Canada. Shilo’s educational background includes a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental and Conservation Sciences, a Bachelor of Law degree (now referred to as a Juris Doctorate), successful completion of the Alberta Bar admission course (although currently a non-practicing lawyer), and designations as a Canadian Registered Safety Professional (CRSP) and a Canadian Certified Utility Safety Professional (CUSP). But don’t let the “lawyer” throw you off!
Shilo started his career working his way up through the trenches– he knows what it feels like to wear steel-toed boots in -45°C weather. Shilo has overseen HSE operations on projects ranging from $1 Million to over $1 Billion dollars throughout Canada. It’s this experience that helped him develop a deep understanding of HSE management systems and how “people” are the key to their success.
Only after Shilo cut his teeth in the field did he achieve his Juris Doctorate and drove himself to becoming a successful lawyer in labor and employment law with a specialty in occupational health and safety. With clients ranging from fortune 100 companies to “ma and pa” operations, these experiences refined his technical OHS knowledge to a razor-sharp edge.
Driven by a passion for knowledge sharing, Shilo engages in teaching, writing, volunteering, and lecturing. Collaborating with esteemed labor, employment, and health & safety organizations across Canada, Shilo actively imparts his expertise while embracing the opportunity to learn from a diverse group of individuals. People see his passion for OHS and it’s hard to ignore…it’s even infectious!
Safety Systems Lead
Barrick Gold Corporation
Safety Systems Lead
Barrick Gold Corporation
Jasmine Ramrup is the Safety Systems Lead within the Global Sustainability team at Barrick Gold Corporation. Jasmine works with the different Safety, Health, and Environmental teams within all functions of Barrick’s global organization. Her expertise includes auditing, risk assessment, safety system management, and the integration of innovative technology to enhance safety measures and data analysis.
Jasmine’s interests and passions include industry inclusion and diversity especially within mining, addressing new and younger workers in the industry, and incorporating technology wherever possible. For her, evaluating ways to improve safety culture through a cultural perspective is a fun and unique way to evaluate where continuous improvement can be implemented in management systems.
Jasmine holds a Bachelor of Arts, a Bachelor of Education (Adult and Continuing Education) and an Honours Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety. Jasmine is a member of Women in Occupational Health and Safety Society (WOHSS), Health and Safety Professionals Canada (HSPC) (Formerly CSSE), and Women in Mining (Northern Ontario). In 2023, Jasmine spoke at the Safety Innovation Summit, showcasing ways to harness emerging technologies to enhance safety training. She was listed in Canadian Occupational Safety’s Young Achievers Award and OHS Canada’s Top 25 Under 40 in 2023.
VP Product ESG & Data Intelligence
EcoOnline
VP Product ESG & Data Intelligence
EcoOnline
With a passion for sustainability and technology, Bertrand has made significant contributions as the Co-Founder and Chief Product/Technology Officer of Ecometrica. Over the past 15 years, Bertrand has been instrumental in developing SaaS solutions that assist organizations and governments in understanding and managing environmental impacts, particularly in the areas of climate change, carbon emissions, ESG, and biodiversity. Prior to Ecometrica, Bertrand dedicated their skills to a variety of sectors, including finance, energy, and agriculture, focusing on greenhouse gas assessments and sustainable practices. Their international experience also includes working with the World Bank to improve environmental decision-making through IT systems in Eastern Europe.A key milestone in their career was founding and contributing to Ecometrica’s growth and its eventual acquisition by Ecoonline.
Director-Environment, Safety, Employee Health & Wellbeing
The Royal Canadian Mint
Director-Environment, Safety, Employee Health & Wellbeing
The Royal Canadian Mint
Jennifer Richardson is the Director of Environment, Safety, Employee Health & Wellbeing at the Royal Canadian Mint where she leads a team of 11 professionals who endeavor to make the Mint a better place, every day. She has a degree in Biomedical Science from the University of Guelph and Master degree in Occupational and Environmental Health from the University of Toronto.
Prior to joining the Mint, Jennifer spent 13 years working for Resource Environmental Associates (REA) where she was the Sr. Consultant and Managing Director for the National Capital and Eastern Ontario operations.
While Jennifer claims that developing the Mint’s Mental Health Program has been the highlight of her 25 year career, she also claims that her biggest accomplishment to date has been growing her family to include two wild little boys and a husband who share her love of fishing, nature, and ice rinks.
VP, Safety, Sustainability & People
Wajax
VP, Safety, Sustainability & People
Wajax
Cristian Rodriguez is Wajax’ VP of EHS & Sustainability, Cristian reports to the CEO of Wajax, is accountable to the Board of Directors, and responsible for the company’s Environment, Health and Safety, and Sustainability/ESG strategies. During his time with Wajax, Cristian has dramatically reduced workplace injuries, transforming Wajax into a company with industry leading safety performance. He has also remediated legacy industrial sites, including decontaminating operations involving chrome, led, arsenic, and other hazardous substances. Cristian is executive sponsor of the Wajax H&W Committee as well as the Diversity Committee. He is also a core member of the Crisis Management team and the Benefits Advisory Committee. In 2019 Wajax received the annual CMHA Award for advancing workplace mental health and received Awards of Excellence from Excellence Canada in 2022.
Associate Director, Safety, Health & Environment
Apotex Inc.
Associate Director, Safety, Health & Environment
Apotex Inc.
Principal Consultant
Safety Centre of Excellence
Principal Consultant
Safety Centre of Excellence
Gordon Walsh has been working in health and safety for over 20 years. Gordon is currently employed with Energy Safety Canada (ESC) as a Principal Consultant, Safety Centre of Excellence. Over his 14 plus years with Enform and now Energy Safety Canada, Gordon has worked in multiple roles and departments. Previous to working with ESC, Gordon worked for two other industry safety associations in trucking and manufacturing. Before starting a career in safety Gordon was employed in various industries including General Construction-Excavation-Gravel Haul, and Underground Mining.
Gordon completed his OHS Certificate with the University of Alberta and has been qualified as a Canadian Registered Safety Professional (CRSP) since 2007, further completed a Business Essentials Program Certificate through the University of Calgary Haskayne School Of Business and most recently a NEBOSH Tech. Cert. in Oil and Gas Operational Safety.
Over the past 4 years Gordon has been focused on learning about Human and Organizational Performance working directly with experts in industry and academia to progress the adoption and operationalization of the philosophy of the 5 Five Principles of HOP within the energy industry.
Gordon has been an instructor of safety courses and a presenter at multiple conferences over the last decade covering topics relevant to frontline workers as well as manager level content.
Gordon sits on the Canada-Nova Scotia Offshore Area OHS Advisory Council as well the Construction Safety Research Alliance (CSRA) Safety Culture research project.
Director National Health and Safety
Purolator
Director National Health and Safety
Purolator
Jimmy Vassilopoulos is the current National H&S Director for Purolator. With over 20 years of H&S experience he specializes in Behaviour Based Safety, Risk Control and Transportation Safety in the courier industry. Jimmy is currently leading Purolator through a transformational advancement in risk control through a highly customized defensive driving training program and strategic initiatives to reinforce safe behaviour through technology. Many of these initiatives are being applied to both drivers as well as inside manual employees. Since Jimmy started with Purolator in 2022, the organization has experienced a record year in safety metrics.
Prior Purolator, Jimmy lead the H&S department for UPS Canada for 12 years and previous to that worked as a H&S lead in Europe for various industries such as transportation, hospitality and leisure. He is currently involved projects using AI and predictive analytics to control risk for next generation safety initiatives.
Chief Operating Officer (GO Transit and UP Express) & Chief Safety and Security Officer
Metrolinx
Chief Operating Officer (GO Transit and UP Express) & Chief Safety and Security Officer
Metrolinx
As Chief Operating Officer for GO Transit and the Union Pearson (UP) Express, Martin ensures the delivery of approximately fifteen thousand weekly rail and bus services to customers all over the GTHA. This includes the operation of stations and facilities across eight rail corridors and thirty-two bus routes encompassing four different rail and bus fleets with nearly one hundred locomotive engines, one thousand rail coaches and nearly five hundred GO Bus vehicles being operated and maintained daily. This includes responsibility for an annual ridership of 70 million customers across the network and over three thousand staff supporting or delivering the frontline operation. In addition to this, in the combined role of Chief Operating and Chief Safety Officer Martin has oversight of enterprise safety, including the largest capital expansion program in North America.
Martin chaired the United Nations expert committee on Rail Operations and Safety from 2014 and spent over ten years as National Head of Safety for Network Rail in the UK where he oversaw the organizational transformation to become rated by The European Rail Agency (ERA) as the safest rail company in Europe. He has also worked in Japan, Australia, Norway, Switzerland, Italy, France, Finland, and New Zealand.
Martin has a Bachelor of Science (Hons) and a Master of Science in Safety and Risk Management. He is certified in engineering safety management, construction safety, construction design management and safety management systems.
Safety professionals are looking to leverage the latest technology as its use can help prevent injuries and allow for the early detection and prediction of anomalies that can lead to safety incidents. However, despite its potential, significant barriers exist to the effective adoption of new technologies in the workplace. This session will examine emerging technologies and best practices for how to prepare for future trends.
Director National Health and Safety
Purolator
Director National Health and Safety
Purolator
Jimmy Vassilopoulos is the current National H&S Director for Purolator. With over 20 years of H&S experience he specializes in Behaviour Based Safety, Risk Control and Transportation Safety in the courier industry. Jimmy is currently leading Purolator through a transformational advancement in risk control through a highly customized defensive driving training program and strategic initiatives to reinforce safe behaviour through technology. Many of these initiatives are being applied to both drivers as well as inside manual employees. Since Jimmy started with Purolator in 2022, the organization has experienced a record year in safety metrics.
Prior Purolator, Jimmy lead the H&S department for UPS Canada for 12 years and previous to that worked as a H&S lead in Europe for various industries such as transportation, hospitality and leisure. He is currently involved projects using AI and predictive analytics to control risk for next generation safety initiatives.
Senior Manager, National Health and Safety
HelloFresh Canada
Senior Manager, National Health and Safety
HelloFresh Canada
Executive Vice President of Health and Safety, Valard Construction Group of Companies
Canada Regional Director Health & Safety, Quanta Services, Inc.
Executive Vice President of Health and Safety, Valard Construction Group of Companies
Canada Regional Director Health & Safety, Quanta Services, Inc.
Shilo Neveu serves as the Executive Vice President of Health and Safety for the Valard Construction Group of Companies and holds the role of Quanta Services Regional Safety Director – Canada. Shilo’s educational background includes a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental and Conservation Sciences, a Bachelor of Law degree (now referred to as a Juris Doctorate), successful completion of the Alberta Bar admission course (although currently a non-practicing lawyer), and designations as a Canadian Registered Safety Professional (CRSP) and a Canadian Certified Utility Safety Professional (CUSP). But don’t let the “lawyer” throw you off!
Shilo started his career working his way up through the trenches– he knows what it feels like to wear steel-toed boots in -45°C weather. Shilo has overseen HSE operations on projects ranging from $1 Million to over $1 Billion dollars throughout Canada. It’s this experience that helped him develop a deep understanding of HSE management systems and how “people” are the key to their success.
Only after Shilo cut his teeth in the field did he achieve his Juris Doctorate and drove himself to becoming a successful lawyer in labor and employment law with a specialty in occupational health and safety. With clients ranging from fortune 100 companies to “ma and pa” operations, these experiences refined his technical OHS knowledge to a razor-sharp edge.
Driven by a passion for knowledge sharing, Shilo engages in teaching, writing, volunteering, and lecturing. Collaborating with esteemed labor, employment, and health & safety organizations across Canada, Shilo actively imparts his expertise while embracing the opportunity to learn from a diverse group of individuals. People see his passion for OHS and it’s hard to ignore…it’s even infectious!
Area EHS Manager, Canada
Microsoft
Area EHS Manager, Canada
Microsoft
Chandan Uprety serves as the Area EHS Manager at Microsoft Canada, leading a dedicated team of EHS professionals on Microsoft’s growing Hyperscale Data Center construction projects, which are crucial to Microsoft Azure cloud and AI initiatives.
His expertise in reducing workplace injuries and promoting a robust safety culture has been demonstrated on complex multi-billion-dollar projects. Chandan firmly believes that safety is not just a moral obligation but also provides a competitive business edge.
Having recently completed his MBA and holding a BASc in Occupational Health & Safety from TMU, Chandan’s career is marked by a commitment to continuous learning and curiosity. His diverse experience spans automotive manufacturing, public sector infrastructure, and the energy sector, allowing him to lead with empathy and a focus on safety. His global perspective, enriched by international work experience, drives his approach to fostering inclusive and safe work environments.
He is passionate about networking, mentoring emerging professionals, and encourages connections on LinkedIn to share insights into the field.
OHS regulatory requirements play a critical role in workplace safety management. With the significant increase in maximum fines for OHS offences, as well as the introduction of prosecution-friendly changes in recent years, it is critical to stay informed of the direction of regulatory enforcement efforts. This session will examine key areas that safety authorities are focusing on and provide practical insights into remaining compliant.
Partner
Dentons LLP
Partner
Dentons LLP
Adrian is a partner in the Toronto Employment group of Dentons Canada LLP. He advises and represents public- and private-sector employers in occupational health and safety (OHS) and employment matters.
Ranked in Lexpert for occupational health and safety and in Best Lawyers in Canada and The Legal 500 Canada for labour and employment law, Adrian helps minimize litigation through his practical approach and thorough analytical skills. He is a strong advocate for clients before courts and tribunals when litigation is the best option. He provides personalized and effective advice by understanding not only the operations and structures of his clients’ businesses, but also their strategic and business objectives.
Adrian regularly appears before Ontario courts and employment tribunals on behalf of employers. Over the course of his career, he has represented employers, constructors, directors and supervisors charged with OHS offenses, working toward a result that manages the legal, personal and public relations risks.
Adrian has been an adjunct professor of employment law at Western University. He is the co-editor of Dentons’ OHS blog, occupationalhealthandsafetylaw.com, and has co-authored three books on employment law topics.
Adrian regularly shares his expertise at conferences. He currently sits on the board of his neighbourhood association in Toronto and is a past director of The Scott Mission and Yonge Street Mission.
While there has been a significant reduction in the frequency of workplace injuries over the years, this downward trend has not extended to the most serious injuries and fatalities. This is leading safety professionals to adjust how workplace incidents are viewed and addressed, and to implement novel approaches to safety, such as Human & Organizational Performance (HOP). This session will explore HOP— its value as a safety tool and how it can be effectively implemented.
Principal Consultant
Safety Centre of Excellence
Principal Consultant
Safety Centre of Excellence
Gordon Walsh has been working in health and safety for over 20 years. Gordon is currently employed with Energy Safety Canada (ESC) as a Principal Consultant, Safety Centre of Excellence. Over his 14 plus years with Enform and now Energy Safety Canada, Gordon has worked in multiple roles and departments. Previous to working with ESC, Gordon worked for two other industry safety associations in trucking and manufacturing. Before starting a career in safety Gordon was employed in various industries including General Construction-Excavation-Gravel Haul, and Underground Mining.
Gordon completed his OHS Certificate with the University of Alberta and has been qualified as a Canadian Registered Safety Professional (CRSP) since 2007, further completed a Business Essentials Program Certificate through the University of Calgary Haskayne School Of Business and most recently a NEBOSH Tech. Cert. in Oil and Gas Operational Safety.
Over the past 4 years Gordon has been focused on learning about Human and Organizational Performance working directly with experts in industry and academia to progress the adoption and operationalization of the philosophy of the 5 Five Principles of HOP within the energy industry.
Gordon has been an instructor of safety courses and a presenter at multiple conferences over the last decade covering topics relevant to frontline workers as well as manager level content.
Gordon sits on the Canada-Nova Scotia Offshore Area OHS Advisory Council as well the Construction Safety Research Alliance (CSRA) Safety Culture research project.
With the landscape of workplace safety continuously transforming, organizations, more than ever, need to focus on safety issues and explore what its role looks like in an evolving workplace. This interactive discussion will bring together a group of talented and inspiring leaders that have driven successful safety strategies by championing innovative safety values. They will share their stories and their journey in making health, safety and wellness a priority for their organization.
President & CEO
Workplace Safety & Prevention Services
President & CEO
Workplace Safety & Prevention Services
Jody Young is the President & CEO, Workplace Safety & Prevention Services. She is a health and safety leader with over 30 years of experience in both public and private sectors. Most recently, she held the role of Assistant Deputy Minister, Employment and Training Division with the Ontario Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. In that role, she provided strategic leadership to the transformation of Employment Services in Ontario. She has extensive experience leading large teams, oversight of transfer payment arrangements, and organizational transformation. Jody also brings a participative and inclusive leadership style, a deep understanding of the sector and strong technical expertise.
SVP Operations
Martin-Brower of Canada Co
SVP Operations
Martin-Brower of Canada Co
Rob Cathcart is the SVP of Operations at Martin Brower Canada, a leading Supply Chain and Logistics services provider to some of the world’s largest restaurant brands. At MB Canada, in addition to day-to-day operations, he is responsible for National Health and Safety, Quality, Project Management, and Fleet and Facilities Management.
Rob has more than 25 years of experience in various roles in operations leadership, quality management, process improvement, and safety management. He has worked in various industries including plastics, automotive, and food processing and logistics.
VP of Human Resources
Lais Hotel Properties Limited (Vintage Hotels)
VP of Human Resources
Lais Hotel Properties Limited (Vintage Hotels)
Dianna Dymond is Vice President of Human Resources for Lais Hotel Properties Limited (LHPL). Dianna joined LHPL in March 2003 and through her tenure she has received subsequent promotions, Human Resources Manager in 2005, Director of Human Resources in 2015, and assumed her role as Vice President of Human Resources in October 2020.
Dianna is responsible for creating strategic Human Resources direction and is responsible to lead talent acquisition, learning & development, compliance and drive impact for the overall employee experience. Achieving business goals through employees is a vital element in the success of the group.
Dianna is a graduate of the Business Administration-Human Resources Management Program at Niagara College and a member of the Human Resources Professionals Association of Ontario holding CHRL & CHRP designations. She is currently an Executive Advisory committee member for WSPS Tourism & Hospitality. She has served previously on the Board of Directors for Big Brothers Big Sisters and Association Chair of the Hospitality Human Resources Professionals of Niagara.
Dianna is passionate about fostering and empowering positive relationships and cultivating opportunities for growth.
Consultant supporting Support Ontario Youth and Literacy Links South Central with Partnerships & Stakeholders
Consultant supporting Support Ontario Youth and Literacy Links South Central with Partnerships & Stakeholders
Organizations are under growing pressure to act in a sustainable, environmentally friendly, and socially responsible manner. EHS professionals and those managing ESG processes often perform similar tasks and share responsibilities. This requires effective integration of OHS and ESG activities. This session will examine the expanding ESG role of safety professionals and its practical implications.
VP, Sustainability, Quality & Community
Dexterra Group
VP, Sustainability, Quality & Community
Dexterra Group
As a seasoned executive with a passion for sustainability and process improvement, Manasi brings a wealth of experience to the top level of organizations. She have a proven track record of leading change and implementing effective strategies that drive both sustainability and business success. Her expertise combined with her understanding of engineering process efficiencies allows Manasi to develop solutions that are not only environmentally responsible but also drive operational efficiency and profitability.
Manasi has a proven ability to engage and influence stakeholders at all levels of an organization and her communication skills ensure that complex concepts are clearly understood and embraced by executives, employees, and stakeholders. She is a strategic thinker with the ability to develop and implement innovative solutions that drive sustainable change and position organizations for long-term success. Manasi is the Vice President, Sustainability, Quality & Community at Dexterra Group and holds a CRSP (Certified Registered Safety Professional), a Master of Business Administration and was named 2022 Top Women in Safety by Canadian Occupational Safety. She enjoys public speaking and has presented at the Canadian Sustainability Conference, BCRSP’s NES Symposium and CANECT to name a few. She is a trained Climate Leader through the Climate Reality Project and has volunteered with organizations such as Junior Achievement Canada, BOMA Canada, Professional Engineers of Ontario and continues to volunteer with Threads of Life, My Safe Work and Rotary.
VP Product ESG & Data Intelligence
EcoOnline
VP Product ESG & Data Intelligence
EcoOnline
With a passion for sustainability and technology, Bertrand has made significant contributions as the Co-Founder and Chief Product/Technology Officer of Ecometrica. Over the past 15 years, Bertrand has been instrumental in developing SaaS solutions that assist organizations and governments in understanding and managing environmental impacts, particularly in the areas of climate change, carbon emissions, ESG, and biodiversity. Prior to Ecometrica, Bertrand dedicated their skills to a variety of sectors, including finance, energy, and agriculture, focusing on greenhouse gas assessments and sustainable practices. Their international experience also includes working with the World Bank to improve environmental decision-making through IT systems in Eastern Europe.A key milestone in their career was founding and contributing to Ecometrica’s growth and its eventual acquisition by Ecoonline.
Director-Environment, Safety, Employee Health & Wellbeing
The Royal Canadian Mint
Director-Environment, Safety, Employee Health & Wellbeing
The Royal Canadian Mint
Jennifer Richardson is the Director of Environment, Safety, Employee Health & Wellbeing at the Royal Canadian Mint where she leads a team of 11 professionals who endeavor to make the Mint a better place, every day. She has a degree in Biomedical Science from the University of Guelph and Master degree in Occupational and Environmental Health from the University of Toronto.
Prior to joining the Mint, Jennifer spent 13 years working for Resource Environmental Associates (REA) where she was the Sr. Consultant and Managing Director for the National Capital and Eastern Ontario operations.
While Jennifer claims that developing the Mint’s Mental Health Program has been the highlight of her 25 year career, she also claims that her biggest accomplishment to date has been growing her family to include two wild little boys and a husband who share her love of fishing, nature, and ice rinks.
VP, Safety, Sustainability & People
Wajax
VP, Safety, Sustainability & People
Wajax
Cristian Rodriguez is Wajax’ VP of EHS & Sustainability, Cristian reports to the CEO of Wajax, is accountable to the Board of Directors, and responsible for the company’s Environment, Health and Safety, and Sustainability/ESG strategies. During his time with Wajax, Cristian has dramatically reduced workplace injuries, transforming Wajax into a company with industry leading safety performance. He has also remediated legacy industrial sites, including decontaminating operations involving chrome, led, arsenic, and other hazardous substances. Cristian is executive sponsor of the Wajax H&W Committee as well as the Diversity Committee. He is also a core member of the Crisis Management team and the Benefits Advisory Committee. In 2019 Wajax received the annual CMHA Award for advancing workplace mental health and received Awards of Excellence from Excellence Canada in 2022.
Associate Director, Safety, Health & Environment
Apotex Inc.
Associate Director, Safety, Health & Environment
Apotex Inc.
There is growing recognition of the role that mental and emotional wellness plays in overall employee health, productivity, retention, and safety. This session will examine best practices that safety leaders can follow for establishing an integrated approach to managing employee psychological safety.
Senior Journalist
Canadian Occupational Safety
Senior Journalist
Canadian Occupational Safety
Safety Analyst
Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada
Safety Analyst
Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada
Director, EHS
Aecon Group Inc.
Director, EHS
Aecon Group Inc.
Stephen Agla is a seasoned professional in the construction industry with over 20 years of experience both in the field and at the leadership level. An early work assignment to build company safety manuals sparked his interest in Health & Safety and changed the path of his career in construction.
Since joining AECON in 2014, Stephen has served as a Health and Safety (H&S) Advisor on projects within sectors such as transportation and rail, commercial office, and energy; lending his expertise to such projects as the Waterloo Light Rail Transit and the Union Station Train Shed Revitalization. In addition to his extensive training and policy accomplishments, Stephen championed AECON’s widespread mental health initiatives.
Now serving as Director of Health and Safety for the ONxpress GO Expansion, one of Canada’s largest infrastructure projects, Stephen’s commitment to both physical and mental safety within the construction industry remains as strong as ever.
Strategic Advisor OHS
Correctional Services, Department of Justice, Nova Scotia
Strategic Advisor OHS
Correctional Services, Department of Justice, Nova Scotia
Robin Angel MSc. CRSP, is a safety professional with over 30 years’ experience in occupational health & safety (OHS). Robin has a Master of Science degree from Royal Roads University (British Columbia) and a Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Guelph (Ontario) and Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) Certification from Queens University (Ontario).
Robin has worked in chemical manufacturing, oil and gas exploration, oil refinery operations, manufacturing, and provincial and federal governments in the areas of safety, occupational hygiene, international auditing of safety, environmental and quality management systems. Robin has instructed university courses in Industrial Hygiene, Measurement & Analysis, Occupational Health, Safety Systems and Risk Management.
Robin is currently employed with the Nova Scotia Department of Justice as Strategic Advisor Occupational Health and Safety with the oversight of more than 500 employees. In 2022 and 2023 Robin was awarded the Canadian Occupational Safety Top Woman in Safety award and she was presented with the Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Medal in recognition of significant service to the province and service during COVID.
Today’s workplace has multiple generational groups working together, each with distinctly different attitudes, motivations, priorities, and ways of communicating. In addition, different age groups encounter differing safety risks in the workplace. Ensuring all employees are equipped to competently carry out their role is critical in avoiding accidents in the workplace. This session will look at how to overcome the challenges of establishing a safety program that addresses the needs of a multigenerational workforce.
Safety Systems Lead
Barrick Gold Corporation
Safety Systems Lead
Barrick Gold Corporation
Jasmine Ramrup is the Safety Systems Lead within the Global Sustainability team at Barrick Gold Corporation. Jasmine works with the different Safety, Health, and Environmental teams within all functions of Barrick’s global organization. Her expertise includes auditing, risk assessment, safety system management, and the integration of innovative technology to enhance safety measures and data analysis.
Jasmine’s interests and passions include industry inclusion and diversity especially within mining, addressing new and younger workers in the industry, and incorporating technology wherever possible. For her, evaluating ways to improve safety culture through a cultural perspective is a fun and unique way to evaluate where continuous improvement can be implemented in management systems.
Jasmine holds a Bachelor of Arts, a Bachelor of Education (Adult and Continuing Education) and an Honours Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety. Jasmine is a member of Women in Occupational Health and Safety Society (WOHSS), Health and Safety Professionals Canada (HSPC) (Formerly CSSE), and Women in Mining (Northern Ontario). In 2023, Jasmine spoke at the Safety Innovation Summit, showcasing ways to harness emerging technologies to enhance safety training. She was listed in Canadian Occupational Safety’s Young Achievers Award and OHS Canada’s Top 25 Under 40 in 2023.
Director National Health and Safety
Purolator
Director National Health and Safety
Purolator
Jimmy Vassilopoulos is the current National H&S Director for Purolator. With over 20 years of H&S experience he specializes in Behaviour Based Safety, Risk Control and Transportation Safety in the courier industry. Jimmy is currently leading Purolator through a transformational advancement in risk control through a highly customized defensive driving training program and strategic initiatives to reinforce safe behaviour through technology. Many of these initiatives are being applied to both drivers as well as inside manual employees. Since Jimmy started with Purolator in 2022, the organization has experienced a record year in safety metrics.
Prior Purolator, Jimmy lead the H&S department for UPS Canada for 12 years and previous to that worked as a H&S lead in Europe for various industries such as transportation, hospitality and leisure. He is currently involved projects using AI and predictive analytics to control risk for next generation safety initiatives.
EcoOnline is a leading provider of Environmental, Health, Safety, and Quality (EHSQ) software solutions. For over two decades, EcoOnline has been dedicated to making workplaces safer by providing organizations of all sizes with user-friendly EHSQ software that creates engagement and operational excellence. Today EcoOnline helps 10,000 customers in over 80 industries to effectively spot risks and incidents, take corrective actions and protect employees, contractors, customers, the public, and the environment.
Mark’s Commercial supplies thousands of businesses across Canada with safety compliant workwear, footwear, and PPE. Our mission is to work with forward-thinking organizations to keep Canadian workers warmer, drier, safer and more comfortable. We do so with leading-edge technology and innovation, that will contribute to an incident-free future and the goal of bringing workers home safe … every single day.
Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS) is a not-for-profit organization committed to protecting Ontario workers and businesses. A proud partner in Ontario’s occupational health and safety system and a trusted safety advisor since 1917, WSPS has a rich history of making Ontario workplaces safer.
At Apex Occupational Health Solutions, we’re passionate about employee health. We understand the unique challenges facing today’s workplace and offer a wide range of tailored solutions designed to support the diverse needs of your business. Our team of health in the workplace professionals bring a wealth of knowledge, expertise, and passion to every interaction – working with you to Transform your Workplace!
BSI exists to have a positive impact on society. We partner with clients and stakeholders to deliver solutions to society’s biggest challenges.
Motive empowers the people who run physical operations with tools to make their work safer, more productive, and more profitable. For the first time ever, safety, operations and finance teams can manage their drivers, vehicles, equipment, and fleet related spend in a single system. Combined with industry leading AI, the Motive platform gives you complete visibility and control, and significantly reduces manual workloads by automating and simplifying tasks.
TeksMed Services Inc. is the leader in Canadian disability management backed by 30 years of success. TeksMed proactively manages occupational and non-occupational injuries and illnesses with personalized recover-at-work solutions combined with QuikCare expedited healthcare.
Parking:
Free parking onsite.
Preferred Accommodations
Hotel room rates are subject to all applicable taxes and fees. Rooms are subject to availability in each hotel from June 10 to June 12. We recommend that you book as soon as possible.
262 Carlingview Drive, Toronto, ON M9W 5G1, Canada
Book your group rate via the reservation link to secure the discounted rate.
Room rate: $309 CAD + per Single or Double room/night
Cut-off date: May 10, 2024
Hotel parking: $30.00 per car
Book your group rate for Canadian Safety Summit Canada
45 Coventry Rd, Brampton, Ontario, L6T 4V7
Book your group rate via the reservation link to secure the discounted rate.
Room rate: $129/$149 CAD + per Single or Double room/night
Cut-off date: May 10, 2024
Group Code: 460351 and Pin Code: 0624
8710 The Gore Road, Brampton, Ontario, L6P 0B1
Book your group rate via the reservation link to secure the discounted rate.
Room rate: $235.95 CAD + per King bed/night
Cut-off date: April 10, 2024
Missed this year’s event? Register your interest to participate in the next Canadian Safety Summit.