Health and Safety Coordinator

**HEALTH AND SAFETY COORDINATOR**

**WHO WE ARE**

Gwillimdale Farms is family-owned/operated, based just 10 minutes from downtown Bradford. We here at Gwillimdale Farms do more than just grow vegetables, we are growing our business we are growing our business, rooted in our core values of excellence, innovation, unity and sustainability. We supply our produce both locally and abroad, working in tandem with food manufacturers, retailers, food service providers, and wholesale distributors. We believe our biggest asset is our team. We are always striving to build a better team and a better work environment through continuing efforts in the areas of safety, education, and personal development.

**JOB SUMMARY**

The Health and Safety and Accessibility Coordinator is responsible for the development, implementation, monitoring, and adherence of the Company’s health and safety program, policies and procedures as required under the Occupational Health and Safety Act and Workplace Safety Insurance Act and the Accessibility program, policies and procedures as required under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA), The Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation (IASR), the Ontario Human Rights Code (OHRC) and other provincial and federal legislation impacting persons with disabilities through deliberations with HR, management, and departmental leaders.

Flexibility may be required to complete training days or based on seasonal needs. Notice will be given in advance.

**CORE COMPETENCIES**
- Strong Organizational and Time Management Skills
- Effective Communication (Written and Verbal)
- Accountability and Responsibility
- Initiative and Proactive Problem-Solving
- Critical Thinking and Decision Making
- Team Collaboration and Interpersonal Skills
- Knowledge of Health and Safety Regulations and Accessibility Standards
- Ability to Adapt to a Fast-Paced, Changing Environment
- Ability to Multitask and Manage Competing Priorities
- Flexibility and Adaptability
- Ability to Address Emergencies Promptly
- Commitment to Continuous Learning and Professional Development
- Bilingual (English and Spanish preferred)
- Ability to Execute Tasks Efficiently and Meet Deadlines

**DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES**

**Health and Safety**:

- Monitor adherence to the Company’s health and safety program for employees, contractors, and visitors.
- Stay updated on regulatory changes and revise programs as necessary.
- Co-chair the Joint Health and Safety Committee (JHSC), ensuring legal compliance, member recruitment, certification, training, and proper meeting documentation.
- Conduct monthly workplace inspections with JHSC, participate in spot audits, and develop corrective action plans.
- Address health and safety concerns from managers, employees, and regulatory inspectors.
- Collaborate with managers on injury/accident reporting and ensure corrective actions are implemented.
- Assist with WSIB claims management and coordinate return-to-work plans.
- Develop, implement, and monitor health and safety policies and procedures in compliance with regulations.
- Create and maintain health and safety training content for new hires and refresher courses. Conduct training sessions as required.
- Coordinate external vendor training (e.g., working at heights, forklifts, first aid) and, once certified, deliver internal training.
- Develop competency assessment templates for new hires in applicable roles.
- Maintain health and safety boards, first aid logs, and SDS binders.
- Coordinate safety equipment inspections and replenish first aid kits and PPE inventory.
- Assist with monthly fire extinguisher inspections.
- Conduct risk assessments (Job Hazard Analysis) and recommend risk mitigation strategies.
- Review new operations, processes, and equipment to ensure health and safety considerations are incorporated.
- Implement and update standard operating procedures for health and safety.
- Recommend and support continuous safety improvements across the organization

**Accessibility**:

- Lead the Company’s response and compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA).
- Collaborate with internal and external parties to ensure compliance with accessibility initiatives and the multi-year accessibility plan.
- Identify accessibility needs and opportunities across the Company.
- Update the multi-year accessibility plan and recommend improvements.
- Oversee the implementation of accessibility standards, ensuring proper training and dissemination of updates.
- Stay informed on legislative changes and advancements in accessibility practices.
- Co-chair the Joint Accessibility Advisory Committee (JAAC) and ensure proper member recruitment, training, and meeting documentation.
- Ensure timely submission of administrative, tracking, and reporting requirements.
- Track and review accessibility-related items and address gaps in policies and procedures.
- Develop and update accessibility policies in line wi