Q1. What does “construction industry” mean?
- The law defines the “construction industry” as “businesses that are engaged in constructing, altering, decorating, repairing or demolishing buildings, structures, roads, sewers, water or gas mains, pipe lines, tunnels, bridges, canals or other works at the site.”
Q2. What training am I required to have to work in Construction in Ontario?
- It is the duty of an employer to "provide information, instruction and supervision to a worker to protect the health or safety of the worker." (Section 25(2)(a) of the Occupational Health and Safety Act)
Specific training requirements depend on the type of construction work you do and the types of hazards you face on a site. Download the
Training Requirements Chart for a list of all required training in Ontario.
Every worker should receive Fall Protection (Working at Heights) and WHMIS training, since there is the possibility that they may be exposed to a fall hazard or a hazardous substance. Your employer must provide these trainings to you.
Q3. What is the hiring process for construction? Do companies prefer to hire on the spot or online?
- Each company has a different process. With smaller companies, it is always preferred to contact them by phone first, email can work, but due to the tight schedule of management, phone calls are preferred. It is not unusual to have an interview in a company truck on a construction site. It is not generally recommended to show up on a construction site to drop off your resume before calling first.
As an applicant, you should be comfortable talking over the phone in English or French at minimum and be ready to explain your experience and value.
Q4. How do I create a Canadian-style resume and cover letter for construction roles?
- Keep it short and simple. Please ensure your resume is no more than a page, highlighting the skills and experience that would be beneficial for the construction company you are applying to.
Q5.What are the common workplace norms and safety regulations in the Canadian construction industry?
- Canadian workplaces prioritize safety and adherence to regulations set by organizations such as Canadian Centre for occupational health and safety. They ensure compliance with safety standards and provide training necessary to maintain a safe work environment. . Here are some important health and safety certifications that are recommended if you will be working on a construction site. Some examples are:
Q6. What should I expect in terms of my employment rights in construction in Ontario (e.g. work hours, vacation)?
- Ontario construction workers have different rights to overtime pay, severance pay and holidays or vacation than other workers. The Employment Standards Act, 2000 (ESA) governs minimum employment standards for Ontario employees. It sets the minimum wage, hours of work, when overtime kicks in, vacation time and public holidays. But the ESA doesn’t apply all the time or to every type of worker. Importantly, in the construction industry “special rules” and “exemptions” apply to things like termination and severance pay. Although an employment contract or collective agreement can give you more rights than the ESA, they can’t give you less. For construction workers, the ESA does not set maximum daily or weekly limits on hours of work, daily or weekly or bi-weekly rest periods, minimum periods of time off between shifts, or rules for notice of termination/termination pay and severance pay. Instead, employees have to look to their contracts or union collective agreements for these rights. Likewise, the law treats construction employees differently when it comes to public holidays and vacation.
Many factors can affect an employee’s entitlements to things like overtime and severance pay, including employment contracts and union collective agreements, as well as the many special rules and exemptions in the ESA. For more information about special rules and exemptions, the Ontario Ministry of Labour provides this accessible
special rule tool, or contact your union or an employment lawyer to discuss your specific entitlements.
Q7. What personal protective equipment (PPE) is mandatory on Canadian construction sites?
- Mandatory personal protective equipment (PPE) on Canadian construction sites typically includes:
- Hard Hats: To protect against head injuries from falling objects or impacts.
- CSA-approved safety Glasses or Goggles: To shield eyes from debris, dust, or hazardous substances.
- CSA-approved steel-toed Boots: For foot protection against heavy objects, sharp materials, and slips.
- High-visibility Vests: To ensure workers are easily seen, especially in areas with vehicle traffic.
- Hearing Protection: Such as earplugs or earmuffs in noisy environments.
- Gloves: To protect hands from cuts, abrasions, or chemical exposure.
- Respirators or Masks: When working with hazardous fumes, dust, or chemicals.
Specific job tasks or site conditions may require additional PPE, such as fall protection harnesses or flame-resistant clothing.
Q8. How can I transition from a general labor position to a specialized trade or management role?
- To transition from general labor to a specialized trade or management role in Ontario, first identify your desired path, whether it's a skilled trade or management. Research the required qualifications, such as apprenticeships for trades or certifications like PMP for management. Enroll in relevant training programs at colleges or trade schools, gain hands-on experience, and pursue necessary certifications. Build a network through industry organizations and mentorship, and apply for roles once you've developed the required skills and credentials.