Elevating Safety Together: The IBSP Council and Manitoba’s Training Standards

Elevating Safety Together: The IBSP Council and Manitoba’s Training Standards

The Industry-Based Safety Program (IBSP) Council is dedicated to advancing workplace safety across Manitoba through collaboration, coordination, and resource sharing among all industry-based safety programs. Our collective efforts focus on preventing workplace injuries, supporting safe and timely return to work, and ensuring the effective operation of safety programs in every sector.

Development of Manitoba’s Training Standardization

In 2018, the Research and Workplace Innovation Program (RWIP) Project titled Manitoba Integrated Standardized Safety Training (MISST) underscored the urgent need for standardized training in the construction sector. This comprehensive study led to the strategic prioritization of a training standards program for all Manitobans within the Workers Compensation Board of Manitoba (WCB) – 5 Year Prevention Plan.

In 2019, a large partner advisory group was created to provide invaluable feedback and leverage lessons to create a robust framework for the creation of these crucial high-hazard training standards. The IBSP Council members, representing a broad coalition of industries, played a key role in shaping this initiative. Working alongside government, safety associations, employers, training providers and industry, Manitoba has developed a comprehensive framework for safety and health training standards.  IBSP Council members helped to bring perspectives from labour, industry, training providers, educational institutions, and government to ensure these standards are practical, effective, and relevant.

In 2021, the Manitoba Safety and Health Training Standards (MSHTS) Council was established to implement the development, accreditation and maintenance of Manitoba’s training standards. 

SAFE Work Endorsed Training Standards: Raising the Bar

The introduction of safety & health training standards marks a significant milestone in our collective efforts to enhance workplace safety and protect Manitoba workers. Today, Manitoba’s safety & health training standards are formally branded as SAFE Work Endorsed Training Standards (SET).

There are now fourteen SET Training Standards available, covering essential topics such as Asbestos Awareness, Confined Space Entry, Working at Heights, and more. Each standard defines clear course requirements, learning objectives, and provider criteria, ensuring that safety training is comprehensive and consistent across all industries.

As a Council, we are committed to:

·      Sharing information, resources, and best practices to continually improve training quality.

·      Promoting awareness of the services and certification programs available through each IBSP.

·      Supporting mutual recognition of safety certifications across industries.

·      Identifying and addressing gaps in workplace safety education and training.

·      Championing the ongoing development and delivery of effective workplace safety education.

Our Commitment to Manitoba’s Workers

Protecting workers involved in high-hazard activities requires more than compliance - it demands leadership, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to safety. The IBSP Council urges all employers, workers, and industry stakeholders to recognize the critical importance of standardized, high-quality training as a frontline defence against workplace injuries and fatalities.

We encourage all industry stakeholders and employers to connect with your IBSP for assistance in taking full advantage of Manitoba’s SET Training Standards. By working together, we can continue to raise the standard for workplace safety and help ensure every worker returns home safely.