In Ontario, workplace safety relies on more than policies and checklists; it requires technical understanding of engineering systems, compliance regulations, and risk controls. Many companies rely on general safety professionals for training and audits, but when complex machinery, electrical systems, or high-risk processes are involved, licensed engineers become essential.

That’s where a Safety Consultant in Toronto brings unique value. Their role extends beyond compliance advice; they evaluate mechanical, electrical, and structural elements that determine whether a facility is truly safe under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA).

The Problem: Not Every Safety Consultant Is a Licensed Engineer

While general advisors may specialize in policy development or hazard awareness, not all have the qualifications to assess engineered systems. Complex hazards, such as those involving automation, pressurized equipment, or electrical controls, require the expertise of safety consulting engineers.

Under Ontario Regulation 851, engineering analysis is mandatory for certain reviews, including pre-start health and safety reviews (PSHSRs). Hiring an unqualified consultant for these tasks can lead to compliance failures, costly redesigns, or orders from the Ministry of Labour.

Role of an Engineering Safety Consultant

A safety consultant in Toronto who is a licensed engineer brings an analytical approach backed by technical expertise. Their responsibilities include:

• Conducting engineering-based hazard and risk assessments
  
   
• Performing pre-start health and safety reviews for new or modified machinery
  
   
• Designing and validating safety systems for guarding and controls
  
   
• Evaluating dust collection, ventilation, and explosion protection systems
• Add: storage and dispensing of flammable liquids
  
   
• Preparing documentation to meet OHSA and Ontario Regulation 851 standards
  
   

These consultants integrate safety directly into the design and operation of equipment, ensuring compliance before the equipment is commissioned.

Role of a General Safety Advisor

General safety advisors typically focus on organizational safety culture and procedural compliance. Their work often includes:

• Conducting safety audits and workplace inspections
  
   
• Delivering training and awareness sessions
  
   
• Developing internal safety policies and emergency plans
  
   
• Advising on administrative or behavioural safety programs
  
   

While essential, these responsibilities do not replace the need for engineering evaluation where mechanical or electrical hazards are involved.

Main Differences Between Engineers and Advisors

The key difference lies in accountability and scope. Safety engineering consultants are licensed professionals governed by Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO). Their work is legally recognized and carries professional liability.

General advisors, though experienced, cannot sign off on engineering reports or modify technical systems. In practice:

• Engineers provide solutions based on design and compliance calculations.
  
   
• Advisors provide behavioural, procedural, or policy recommendations.
  
   

When equipment, layouts, or processes require validation, only an engineer can provide certified documentation accepted by regulatory authorities.

When a Business Should Hire an Engineering Consultant

Companies should engage safety consulting engineers when:

• Installing or modifying machinery that triggers PSHSR requirements
  
   
• Evaluating explosion risks or dust collection systems
  
   
• Assessing flammable liquid handling or containment areas
  
   
• Reviewing guarding, interlocks, or automation control systems
  
   
• Conducting compliance audits on older plant equipment
  
   

These scenarios demand engineered solutions, not general guidance, to meet legal and operational standards.

How SAFE Engineering Inc. Supports Ontario Businesses

SAFE Engineering Inc. offers licensed safety engineering consultants who specialize in compliance for Ontario’s industrial establishments. Their services include:

• PSHSR preparation and engineering sign-offs
  
   
• Design and project management for retrofits and upgrades
  
   
• Plant safety audits and risk assessments
  
   
• Integration of safety systems into production processes
  
   

By combining technical expertise with a regulatory understanding of regulations, the firm helps organizations achieve compliance efficiently and sustainably.

Conclusion

General safety advisors play a vital role in fostering safe workplace behaviour, but only licensed safety consulting engineers possess the authority and technical depth to certify equipment, review designs, and verify compliance under OHSA.

Partnering with safety engineering consultants like SAFE Engineering Inc. ensures every project, whether installation, retrofit, or audit, meets Ontario’s stringent safety and engineering standards.