SureHire is heading to the Edmonton Convention Centre April 15 & 16, 2026, for the 23rd Alberta Health and Safety Conference. This year’s theme, “Zero Harm: Rethinking What’s Possible” challenges industry leaders, safety professionals, and innovators to push beyond traditional approaches, embrace emerging technologies, and strengthen employee engagement to build safer, healthier, and more resilient workplaces.
Tag: Occupational Testing
SureHire is heading to Orange County, CA, USA, from April 26 through April 30, 2026, for the annual NDASA Conference. This conference highlights the common mission of supporting excellence in the drug and alcohol testing industry and promoting safe and drug-free workplaces.
TAKEAWAY: In this case study, we will explore how mining companies can use various types of occupational tests to reduce Total Recordable Incident Rates (TRIR) long term.
In any workplace, it is vital to ensure that employees are adequately suited for the tasks they are assigned. For many industries, this includes assessing an individual’s fitness for duty and capabilities through occupational testing. In a mining setting, individuals often work in very remote areas where medical care, such as hospitals, can be very far away. Companies need to do more robust medical assessments to ensure there are no health concerns.
These positions are also usually exposed to substances like coal dust, in which case a lung health program should include a health questionnaire, mask-fit, spirometry and chest x-rays. Very loud environments mean audiometric testing may be required.
What is the Total Recordable Incident Rate (TRIR)?
TRIR measures the number of work-related injuries and illnesses per 100 full-time workers within a given time frame. Companies use it as a metric to assess overall safety. It is often calculated using the following formula: #injuries x 200,000 divided by #hours worked. The number 200,000 is used because that is how many hours 100 workers working 40-hour work weeks would total annually. This number of 200,000 can be adjusted to provide quarterly TRIR rates.
Occupational Testing and Mining
Mining companies in North America have a unique set of occupational health and safety challenges. The mining industry is known for being one of the most hazardous industries in terms of worker safety, with risks including falls, explosions, and exposure to harmful substances. As a result, mining companies must have a comprehensive approach to ensuring the safety of their workers. A critical aspect of this approach is the use of various types of occupational testing to assess job applicants.
Occupational testing can take many forms, including physical fitness tests, cognitive ability tests, drug and alcohol screening, and psychological assessments. Employers can use these tests to assess an applicant’s ability to perform the job safely, their level of fitness, and their risk of injury or illness. By using these tests to screen job applicants, mining companies can reduce the likelihood of workplace accidents and injuries.

Looking for Occupational Testing Services?
SureHire offers a wide range of pre-employment screening and testing, including drug and alcohol testing, fitness-to-work testing, background checks and recruitment support services.
Drug and Alcohol Testing in Mining
There is a direct correlation between impairment and worker safety, with several studies, including one by the International Federation of Labor, clearly linking substance abuse and occupational injury. Drug and alcohol testing can help reduce TRIR by reducing substance use and impairment on the job. The findings of one recent study on miners, for example, showed that the introduction of random drug and alcohol tests, as well as fit-for-work testing, resulted in fewer positive tests. The researchers concluded that a comprehensive alcohol and drug testing policy had a positive impact on reducing substance abuse in the workplace and that workers were restricting their drug use specifically because of the testing.
Lung Function Testing
Pre-employment lung function testing of miners can have a significant impact on TRIR. By identifying and screening out miners with pre-existing lung conditions, such as pneumoconiosis or silicosis, pre-employment lung function testing can help prevent work-related respiratory diseases and reduce the overall TRIR. This not only helps to protect the health and safety of miners, but it can also lead to improved productivity and reduced healthcare costs for employers. Furthermore, regular lung function testing can help monitor miners’ health and identify potential problems early on, which can help prevent severe or life-threatening conditions from developing.
Mask-fit and spirometry are two additional vital measures that can help reduce TRIR. Mask-fit testing is essential to ensure that respiratory masks provide adequate protection to workers by creating a tight seal around the face, preventing harmful particles and gases from entering the lungs. On the other hand, spirometry is a vital tool for monitoring lung function and identifying potential respiratory hazards. By implementing these measures, mining companies can effectively reduce the risk of respiratory-related accidents and injuries in the workplace, thus improving the overall safety of workers.
Fitness-to-Work Testing
Fitness-to-Work testing, or Fitness for duty testing, is a process used by mining companies in North America to assess the physical and mental capabilities of their employees or job applicants. Employers will conduct this type of testing to ensure their employees are fit to work in the mining industry, which is often characterized by demanding physical labour, extreme weather conditions, and a high level of risk.
The Fitness-to-Work testing process usually involves a series of tests and assessments designed to evaluate the applicant’s physical and mental health, physical fitness assessments, and psychological evaluations. The tests are designed to identify potential issues that could affect the employee’s ability to perform their job safely and effectively.
According to a study conducted by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), mining companies that use fitness for duty testing have a lower TRIR than those that do not. The study found that companies that implemented fitness for duty testing had a TRIR of 1.8, while companies that did not have a TRIR of 3.5.
The study also found that companies that used fitness-to-Work testing had a lower incidence rate of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) than those that did not. MSDs are one of the most common types of injuries in the mining industry, and they can result from overexertion, repetitive motion, and awkward postures.
In addition to reducing the TRIR and the incidence of MSDs, fitness for duty testing has other benefits for mining companies. For example, it can help companies identify employees at risk of developing health problems or injuries and provide them with early intervention and treatment. It can also help companies identify employees needing additional training or support to perform their job safely and effectively.
Audiometric Testing
Many mining companies in North America use audiometric testing as part of their job assessment process for new applicants. In fact, annual hearing tests are required under the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) regulations as part of any hearing conservation program. In Canada, this legislation is dictated mainly by provincial health and safety statutes. However, the federal government governs specific cases involving federal employees or mining uranium or thorium.
Mines are noisy environments, and early diagnosis of conditions such as noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is crucial in mitigation efforts.
Audiometric testing is a hearing test that measures a person’s ability to hear sounds of different frequencies and volumes. By using audiometric testing, mining companies can determine if an applicant has hearing loss or other hearing-related issues that may affect their ability to perform their job safely and effectively.
The use of audiometric testing in job assessments can have a positive impact on TRIR. It can also effectively identify workers at risk of hearing loss due to their job duties. By identifying these workers early on, mining companies can take steps to prevent hearing loss and other related injuries from occurring.
Occupational testing can be a powerful tool for mining companies looking to improve worker safety and reduce their TRIR. By using a combination of pre-employment and ongoing testing, mining companies can ensure that their workers are fit for the job and can perform their duties safely. Additionally, by identifying workers at risk of injury or illness, mining companies can take proactive measures to prevent accidents before they occur.

Looking for Occupational Testing Services?
SureHire offers a wide range of pre-employment screening and testing, including drug and alcohol testing, fitness-to-work testing, background checks and recruitment support services.
TAKEAWAY: This article explores ways to manage occupational noise, no matter which industry you’re in. Read on to learn how to proactively mitigate occupational noise risks and help prevent NIHL among workers.
Jump Ahead
- Identify Noise-Related Hazards in the Workplace
- Conduct a Noise Assessment to Assess the Risks
- Engineering Controls: Equipment Modification or Replacement
- Administrative Controls: Adjusting Workplace Protocols and Procedures
- Use Hearing-Related Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Conduct Regular Audiometric Testing
- Hearing Conservation Basics | In Conclusion
- You May Also Be Interested In…
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that 22 million workers are exposed to potentially damaging noise annually, a problem that can have far-reaching adverse effects. High noise levels may interfere with workplace communication and, in turn, increase the risk of related accidents and injuries. Hearing loss can occur, which has implications ranging from communication difficulties to various health issues such as tinnitus and poor mental health.
Exposure to high noise levels can lead to noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL), an irreversible problem. This type of hearing damage may occur from one-off excessive noise exposure or exposure to noise above the recommended safe limits over time. Occupational NIHL is a widespread yet preventable problem.
Some of the most high-risk industries for NIHL include transportation, manufacturing, forestry and agriculture, mining, and oil and gas. Each sector has unique noise-related hazards, but the good news is that employers can take plenty of practical steps to decrease noise exposure in the workplace and keep workers safe.
Identify Noise-Related Hazards in the Workplace
The first step in managing occupational noise is identifying potential workplace noise-related hazards. These hazards can vary widely depending on the industry and specific job roles. It’s crucial to assess all areas of the workplace and tasks that could expose employees to excessive noise levels.
For instance, noisy machinery and equipment may pose significant risks in the manufacturing sector. Vehicle engines and road noise could contribute to elevated noise levels in the transportation industry. By conducting thorough assessments and involving employees in hazard identification, employers can gain valuable insights into potential sources of noise exposure.
Conduct a Noise Assessment to Assess the Risks
Once you identify potential noise hazards, conducting a comprehensive noise assessment is essential. This assessment involves measuring noise levels across different workplace areas using specialized equipment (for example, a sound level meter). The goal is to quantify the extent of noise exposure and determine whether it exceeds recommended safe limits.
For example, construction industry employers should measure noise levels from equipment and activities such as drilling, hammering, and heavy machinery operations. This data helps them make informed decisions about implementing effective noise control measures.

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SureHire offers Audiometric Testing both in-facility and through our mobile fleet. Contact us today to request a quote!
Engineering Controls: Equipment Modification or Replacement
Engineering controls focus on modifying or replacing equipment to eliminate or reduce noise at its source. This proactive approach can significantly lower noise exposure levels. For instance, installing noise-reducing enclosures or dampening materials around machinery in a manufacturing setting can effectively reduce noise emissions.
Equipping heavy machinery with quieter exhaust systems can reduce noise in the mining industry. Such modifications protect workers’ hearing and create a more comfortable and productive work environment.
Administrative Controls: Adjusting Workplace Protocols and Procedures
Implementing administrative controls involves adjusting workplace protocols and procedures to minimize noise exposure. Employers can schedule noisy tasks during specific hours to limit employees’ time in noisy areas and create designated quiet zones.
For example, in a call center environment, provide employees with noise-canceling headphones to mitigate the impact of background noise during phone conversations.
Use Hearing-Related Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Personal protective equipment (PPE) designed to protect employees’ hearing is another essential component of managing occupational noise. Earplugs and earmuffs are types of PPE for reducing noise exposure to safe levels.
Providing comfortable and effective ear protection is crucial in any industry with high noise levels. Proper training on correctly using hearing-related PPE ensures that employees receive the intended protection.
Ensuring proper personal protective equipment (PPE) fit is paramount to its effectiveness. Ill-fitting hearing-related PPE can compromise its ability to adequately reduce noise exposure, rendering it less effective in safeguarding employees’ hearing.
This concern has been particularly relevant for women, as standard PPE sizes and designs have often been based on male anatomical proportions, potentially resulting in inadequate protection for female workers. Addressing this issue by providing PPE options accommodating diverse body types and conducting Hearing Protection Fit Testing can significantly enhance all employees’ overall safety and well-being.
Employers must consider several crucial factors beyond fit when selecting the right hearing protection. While a proper fit is essential to ensure optimal noise reduction, comfort is also important. Uncomfortable or cumbersome hearing protection may discourage employees from wearing it consistently, exposing them to potential risks. Noise reduction ratings (NRR) are also critical, with higher NRR values indicating more effective noise reduction.
The nature of the job and specific noise sources also determine the most suitable hearing protection. Whether custom molded earplugs or earmuffs are preferred, the chosen type should align with the work environment and tasks to provide reliable and comfortable noise attenuation, ultimately contributing to a safer and healthier workplace.
Conduct Regular Audiometric Testing
Regular audiometric testing, also known as hearing tests, is vital to a comprehensive hearing conservation program. These tests assess employees’ hearing over time and help detect changes that may indicate early signs of hearing loss.
For instance, in the aviation industry, where aircraft noise is a prevalent hazard, pilots and ground crew members should undergo regular audiometric testing. Early identification of hearing loss allows for timely intervention and adjustments to noise control measures.

Request a Quote Today!
SureHire offers Audiometric Testing both in-facility and through our mobile fleet. Contact us today to request a quote!
Hearing Conservation Basics | In Conclusion
Effectively managing occupational noise is a critical responsibility for employers across various industries. The consequences of noise-induced hearing loss can be profound, affecting the well-being of employees and an organization’s overall productivity.
Employers can create a safer and more conducive work environment by identifying noise-related hazards, conducting thorough noise assessments, implementing engineering and administrative controls, providing appropriate PPE, and conducting regular audiometric testing. Taking proactive steps to mitigate noise risks demonstrates a commitment to the health and safety of the workforce, promoting a culture of prevention and protection.
Remember, safeguarding employees’ hearing is a legal requirement in many jurisdictions and a fundamental ethical responsibility. By prioritizing hearing conservation, organizations can ensure the long-term health and well-being of their most valuable asset—their employees.
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In this case study, we will explore how mining companies can use various types of occupational tests to reduce Total Recordable Incident Rates (TRIR) long term. - 9 Strategies to Keep Workers Cool on Drilling Sites During Hot Summer Months
This article delves into strategies to keep workers cool and safe on drilling sites during the hot summer months. - Hearing Conservation Basics: How to Manage Occupational Noise
Learn how to proactively mitigate occupational noise risks and help prevent NIHL among workers.
TAKEAWAY: In this case study, we will explore how manufacturing companies can use various types of occupational testing to assess job applicants, including statistics that show how that can reduce your Total Recordable Incident Rate over the long term.
Jump Ahead
Manufacturing can be a dangerous business. In any given year, accounting for 15 to 20 percent of all non-fatal injuries in the private sector. Manufacturing companies operate in high-risk environments, requiring skilled personnel to safely handle complex machinery and hazardous materials. Slips, trips and falls, repetitive strain and overexertion, are all common injuries in manufacturing, but getting caught or struck by machinery is one of the highest risks for these workers.
Because of these risks, the selection process for new employees in this sector is critical. It directly impacts the safety of all workers and your company’s productivity, efficiency, and reputation. One way manufacturing companies can assess job applicants’ suitability for a position is through various types of occupational testing.
By understanding where an applicant stands before they get on the job, employers can optimize their workforce, accommodate roles for their workers, and reduce the potential for accidents on the job.
Bona Fide Occupational Requirements for Occupational Testing
Employer best practice in pre-employment testing should ensure the testing is reasonably necessary and connected to the job. This concept is known as a Bona Fide Occupational Requirement (BFOR) and is required in provinces such as Alberta. In Newfoundland, this is referred to as Good Faith Occupational Requirements.
Occupational Testing
Occupational testing is a process used to evaluate a job applicant’s skills, knowledge, and abilities related to a specific job. It can include aptitude tests, skills assessments, psychological evaluations, fitness to work, and drug and alcohol screening. These tests help companies identify the best candidates for a job and ensure they have the necessary skills to perform the job safely and effectively.

Looking for Occupational Testing Services?
SureHire offers a wide range of pre-employment screening and testing, including drug and alcohol testing, fitness-to-work testing, background checks and behavioural assessments.
Fitness-to-Work Testing
Employers use these types of tests to ensure that a potential new hire is physically and mentally capable of doing the work required and can also be used to assess any necessary accommodations. They need trained professionals in a controlled environment and should focus on activities related to the job.
Aptitude Tests
Aptitude tests assess an individual’s potential to learn specific skills required for the job. Manufacturing companies can use cognitive aptitude tests to evaluate a candidate’s problem-solving skills, spatial awareness, and attention to detail. This type of testing is essential for jobs that require complex problem-solving, such as engineers or machinists.
Skills Assessments
Skills assessments evaluate a candidate’s practical knowledge of the job. Employers can use skills assessments to assess physical abilities, such as a forklift driving test or a manual dexterity test for assembly line workers.
Psychological Evaluations
Psychological evaluations assess a candidate’s personality traits and behavioural tendencies. These tests can benefit positions requiring high-stress tolerance levels, such as emergency responders or plant supervisors. A psychological evaluation can also identify potential behavioural issues impacting an individual’s ability to work safely in a manufacturing environment.
Drug and Alcohol Testing
Pre-employment testing, which includes drug and alcohol testing, can help you manage the risk of workplace substance abuse and the accidents, incidents and absenteeism related to it. This type of screening typically includes an 8-panel drug test that checks for the use of several common drugs of abuse. If required by an employer, this type of testing is generally administered after the offer of employment and before the new employee begins work.
The Benefits of Occupational Testing
Occupational testing provides several critical benefits for manufacturing companies, including:
- Ensuring new hires have the skills and abilities to perform the job safely and effectively.
- Reducing the costs associated with training new employees by identifying individuals with the necessary skills.
- Decreasing the risk of injury by ensuring that new employees are physically capable of handling the job.
- Improving overall safety by identifying behavioural and other issues that could impact an individual’s ability to work safely in a manufacturing environment.
The Link Between Occupational Testing and TRIR
TRIR is a commonly used metric to measure safety performance in the manufacturing industry. It is calculated by taking the number of recordable incidents in a year and multiplying it by 200,000, then dividing it by the total number of hours worked. The TRIR rate is an essential measure of a company’s safety performance, and many manufacturing companies strive to reduce it.
Studies have shown that using occupational testing to assess job applicants can reduce the TRIR rate. For example, a recent study by the Associated Builders and Contractors found that robust substance abuse prevention programs/ policies with provisions for drug and alcohol testing where permitted lead to a 70% reduction in TRIR.
Occupational testing provides manufacturing companies with an effective way to evaluate job applicants’ skills and abilities, reducing the risks associated with new hires. Companies using occupational testing have been shown to have lower TRIR rates, indicating a safer working environment. Manufacturing companies must incorporate occupational testing into their recruitment processes to ensure they hire the best candidates for the job and maintain a safe working environment.

Looking for Occupational Testing Services?
SureHire offers a wide range of pre-employment screening and testing, including drug and alcohol testing, fitness-to-work testing, background checks and behavioural assessments.
You May Also Be Interested In…
- SureHire Announces Acquisition of Spectrum Safety Services
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Employers cannot initiate reasonable suspicion testing without first going through the 5-step process. Reasonable suspicion training provides critical information about how to initiate reasonable suspicion testing, including the 5-step process and other tools that employers can use to help manage the misuse of alcohol and drugs in the workplace. - SureHire Occupational Testing Acquires COHR Health: A Positive Step Towards Safe, Healthy, Productive Workforces and Communities
We are thrilled to announce that today, May 6, 2024, SureHire Occupational Testing has officially acquired COHR Health, a well-known leader in occupational health services. Read on… - Occupational Testing Use Case – Mining
In this case study, we will explore how mining companies can use various types of occupational tests to reduce Total Recordable Incident Rates (TRIR) long term. - 9 Strategies to Keep Workers Cool on Drilling Sites During Hot Summer Months
This article delves into strategies to keep workers cool and safe on drilling sites during the hot summer months. - Hearing Conservation Basics: How to Manage Occupational Noise
Learn how to proactively mitigate occupational noise risks and help prevent NIHL among workers.
TAKEAWAY: To ensure the proper fit and seal of a respirator, it is essential that employers conduct a user seal check regularly. A user seal check is a quick test that helps determine if the respirator is fitted correctly to the user’s face and provides an effective seal.
Jump Ahead
Respirators have always been an essential part of personal protective equipment (PPE) used in various industries to protect workers, particularly those in hazardous work environments, from inhaling harmful particles or gases. However, the effectiveness of a respirator is highly dependent on its fit and seal, and with emerging infectious disease outbreaks and increasingly smaller particles, performing proper fit testing is crucial. If there is a leak between the respirator and the user’s face, harmful particles or gases can still enter the respiratory system, putting the worker’s health at risk.
Positive and Negative Pressure Checks
There are two types of user seal checks: the positive pressure check and the negative pressure check. Not every respirator can be checked using both positive and negative pressure checks, so be sure to check your manufacturer’s recommendations or work with a professional. Both tests are equally important because they check for different things. A positive pressure check ensures that there are no leaks on the inhalation side of the mask, while a negative pressure check ensures that there are no leaks on the exhalation side of the mask.
Positive Pressure Checks
During a positive pressure user seal check, the respirator user gently exhales while blocking the paths for air to exit the facepiece. A successful check is when the facepiece is slightly pressurized without any evidence of outward air leakage at the seal. Evidence that the seal is faulty can include a feeling of air movement along the face at the point of the seal, glasses fogging or a lack of pressure inside the facepiece. Positive pressure checks may not be possible if the respirator has an exhalation valve. In this case, employers should use a negative pressure check.
The Negative Pressure Check
The negative pressure check involves covering the filter cartridges with the palms of the hands and inhaling gently. If the respirator collapses slightly and stays collapsed without any air leaking in, it indicates a proper fit and seal. During a negative pressure user seal check, the respirator user sharply inhales while blocking the paths for air to enter the facepiece. This includes, for example, covering the filter cartridges. A successful check is when the facepiece collapses slightly and remains collapsed without any air leaking in under the negative pressure created with this procedure.
Hazards Help Determine Which Seal Test to Use
In some cases, one test may be more appropriate than the other depending on the specific respirator and the hazards present. For example, a positive pressure check may be more critical for respirators used in environments with high levels of particulates. In contrast, a negative pressure check may be more vital for respirators used in environments with high levels of gases or vapours.
Whenever possible, however, workers or employers should perform both tests to ensure that it is functioning correctly and providing the intended level of protection.
When to do a Seal Check
User seal checks should be conducted every time a respirator is used, even if it is the same respirator that has been used before. This is because facial features, such as facial hair, weight gain and loss, or dental work, can change over time and affect the fit and seal of the respirator.
The Business Case for Conducting Seal Checks
The importance of conducting user seal checks cannot be overstated. A poorly fitting respirator can lead to various health risks, including respiratory illness, lung damage, or even death. Additionally, using a respirator with a poor fit and seal can give workers a false sense of security, leading them to engage in risky behaviour that they would otherwise avoid.
Employers are responsible for providing their workers with properly fitting respirators and ensuring that they are trained on the importance of conducting user seal checks. This includes providing workers with guidance on how to perform the checks and the consequences of not doing so. Additionally, employers should ensure that their workers have access to a variety of respirator sizes and models to accommodate individual facial features and preferences.
Conducting user seal checks on respirators is an essential part of ensuring workers’ safety in various industries. It is a quick and simple test that can prevent serious health risks and should be conducted every time a respirator is used. Employers are responsible for providing their workers with the necessary training and equipment to conduct user seal checks and ensure that they are performed correctly.
You May Also Be Interested In…
- SureHire Announces Acquisition of Spectrum Safety Services
Sleep & Fatigue Specialist, Clinton Marquardt, uncovers 4 hidden costs of fatigue and how you can manage them. - Do You Have Reasonable Suspicion?
Employers cannot initiate reasonable suspicion testing without first going through the 5-step process. Reasonable suspicion training provides critical information about how to initiate reasonable suspicion testing, including the 5-step process and other tools that employers can use to help manage the misuse of alcohol and drugs in the workplace. - SureHire Occupational Testing Acquires COHR Health: A Positive Step Towards Safe, Healthy, Productive Workforces and Communities
We are thrilled to announce that today, May 6, 2024, SureHire Occupational Testing has officially acquired COHR Health, a well-known leader in occupational health services. Read on… - Occupational Testing Use Case – Mining
In this case study, we will explore how mining companies can use various types of occupational tests to reduce Total Recordable Incident Rates (TRIR) long term. - 9 Strategies to Keep Workers Cool on Drilling Sites During Hot Summer Months
This article delves into strategies to keep workers cool and safe on drilling sites during the hot summer months. - Hearing Conservation Basics: How to Manage Occupational Noise
Learn how to proactively mitigate occupational noise risks and help prevent NIHL among workers.
TAKEAWAY: In this blog post, we’ll provide an overview of the safety training requirements in the mining industry and highlight some essential resources to help you meet your obligations.
Jump Ahead
Safety is paramount in the mining industry. Mining is one of the most dangerous job sectors where workers have a high risk of work-related injuries and fatalities. Mining industry employers must be familiar with the safety training requirements in their state or province to ensure safety on their work sites.
Why is safety training vital for the mining industry?
The mining industry faces several unique safety-related challenges. Mining industry employers should have safety at the forefront of their organization for several reasons:
- Mining industry employees are at risk of noise-induced hearing loss
Mining is a high-risk sector for noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). Mine industry employees are exposed to loud noises from various sources and processes. Employers can take steps to reduce noise to safe levels, such as investing in noise-reducing equipment and personal protective equipment (PPE), such as custom-moulded ear plugs.
Employees should receive training related to NIHL to understand the risks of hazardous noise levels, how to reduce noise exposure, and how to properly use noise-related PPE.

Book an Appointment Today!
SureHire’s audiometric testing services allow you to detect NIHL before it becomes a problem, providing you with the information you need for investigation and intervention so you can protect your workforce.
- Mine workers are exposed to dangerous substances
Mine workers are often exposed to substances like coal dust, which may damage their health. Coal dust can cause several severe respiratory conditions that employers must be aware of.
Employers can design safety training programs to educate employees on reducing their exposure to harmful substances.
- Mines may be in remote locations
Miners often work in remote areas, far from medical care. Therefore, employers must take steps to improve workplace health and safety. Should health and safety issues arise on the job site, employees should be well-versed in dealing with emergencies to help keep themselves and their coworkers safe.
- Safety training minimizes the risk of work-related musculoskeletal injuries
Several mining activities are associated with a high risk of musculoskeletal injuries. These include handling supplies or materials, getting on or off equipment or machines, machine maintenance and repair, and using hand tools.
Safety training is crucial for minimizing the risk of musculoskeletal injuries from such activities. For example, training in lifting techniques and how and when to distribute loads can reduce the incidence of back injuries, the most common injury site in miners.
Furthermore, workers must be trained to use equipment and tools safely. Employers can invest in state-of-the-art equipment, but it’s only worthwhile if workers know how to use it safely and effectively.
- Miners may be at high risk of opioid dependence
Mine industry workers may be at a high risk of injuries requiring an opioid prescription. Such prescriptions can lead to drug dependence or overdose.
Impairment training should be a part of any workplace alcohol and drug policy. It can help increase awareness and prevent dependence and overdose issues.
- Safety training reduces accident and fatality rates
Although mining is notoriously known as a dangerous industry, safety training helps reduce the incidence of workplace accidents through education and awareness. In turn, accident-related injury and fatality statistics also decline.
Safety training requirements in the mining industry
The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) is a branch of the US Department of Labor that oversees safety training requirements in the mining industry. Federal law specifies that miners must receive basic and annual refresher training. They also state that all mine operators must maintain an effective training plan.
The Federal code 30 CFR Part 48 covers all underground mining, plus surface mining of coal and some metals. Training plans and trainers must be MSHA-approved. Part 46 covers the aggregate industry, including granite, sand, gravel, lime, and cement operations. For Part 46, training plans and trainers do not require MSHA approval but must meet the rule’s requirements.
Federal involvement in mining is limited in Canada, and provincial governments are responsible for regulating mining within their jurisdiction.
The Mining Association of Canada is the voice of the Canadian mining industry. They offer several resources for mining employers and facilitate the Towards Sustainable Mining (TSM) program to support mining companies in environmental and social risk management.
Essential resources for mining industry employers
Mining industry employers can explore the resources available to them when building a safer, healthier workplace and workforce. Examples include the following:
- The MSHA offers various mine health and safety training programs. These include in-person and online courses. Examples of resources include the Miners’ Rights and Responsibilities online training program and the Miners’ Representatives Guide.
- The MSHA has several health and safety materials to promote safety in US mines. These include their Small Mine Guide, training videos, and handbook series.
- The MSHA also assists mining employers in developing a training plan, educates about mine rescue training, and offers free access to previous quarterly training conference calls and stakeholder meetings.
- The Colorado School of Mines and the Western Mining Safety and Health Training Resource Center provide MSHA Part 48 new miner training and annual refreshers.
- Employers can access several mining safety training programs to help ensure compliance with MSHA regulations. Many of these are free, app-based training programs with short, easy-to-digest content.
- The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) mining program aims to eliminate mining fatalities, injuries, and illnesses through relevant research and impactful solutions.
How mining industry employers can protect their employees
Mining industry employers can use the resources above to develop robust safety training plans. Employers can also invest in several safety-related occupational testing services relevant to mine workers to help protect their employees. Examples are as follows:
- Drug and alcohol testing services and Reasonable Suspicion Training (RST) can help raise employee awareness and reduce the incidence of substance abuse in the workplace.
- Audiometric testing services address the issue of NIHL and help keep workers safe through early detection of hearing problems and measuring changes over time.
- Mine workers often require lung health testing programs, including a health questionnaire, mask-fit testing, spirometry, and chest x-rays.
- Mining industry employers should ensure employees receive a complete medical exam to identify underlying health concerns since medical care is often far away. The knowledge obtained from these tests enables employers to establish an appropriate course of action to accommodate an employee’s health issues.

Book an Appointment Today!
SureHire’s audiometric testing services allow you to detect NIHL before it becomes a problem, providing you with the information you need for investigation and intervention so you can protect your workforce.
You May Also Be Interested In…
- SureHire Announces Acquisition of Spectrum Safety Services
Sleep & Fatigue Specialist, Clinton Marquardt, uncovers 4 hidden costs of fatigue and how you can manage them. - Do You Have Reasonable Suspicion?
Employers cannot initiate reasonable suspicion testing without first going through the 5-step process. Reasonable suspicion training provides critical information about how to initiate reasonable suspicion testing, including the 5-step process and other tools that employers can use to help manage the misuse of alcohol and drugs in the workplace. - SureHire Occupational Testing Acquires COHR Health: A Positive Step Towards Safe, Healthy, Productive Workforces and Communities
We are thrilled to announce that today, May 6, 2024, SureHire Occupational Testing has officially acquired COHR Health, a well-known leader in occupational health services. Read on… - Occupational Testing Use Case – Mining
In this case study, we will explore how mining companies can use various types of occupational tests to reduce Total Recordable Incident Rates (TRIR) long term. - 9 Strategies to Keep Workers Cool on Drilling Sites During Hot Summer Months
This article delves into strategies to keep workers cool and safe on drilling sites during the hot summer months. - Hearing Conservation Basics: How to Manage Occupational Noise
Learn how to proactively mitigate occupational noise risks and help prevent NIHL among workers.
This article is part of a series identifying common OHS risks, challenges, and compliance regulations in each province. Read on to find out the main issues Quebec employers should be aware of.
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Are you a Quebec employer wondering about your occupational health and safety (OHS) obligations? OHS regulations vary between provinces, so Quebec employers must familiarize themselves with Quebec’s major OHS governing body and its requirements.
Quebec employers face unique OHS risks and challenges based on the province’s dominant sectors and job roles, common workplace hazards, and injury statistics. Employers who understand the challenges relevant to their industry and workplace can take steps to reduce the incidence of injuries and fatalities and create a healthier, safer workplace.
Top economic sectors in Quebec
Quebec’s economy represents 20 percent of the country’s GDP, making it Canada’s second-largest economy after Ontario. Quebec is rich in natural resources and has excellent infrastructure.
The manufacturing and service sectors dominate Quebec’s economy. Quebec’s top three sectors by employment are retail trade, manufacturing, and healthcare and social assistance, with 42 percent of provincial employment combined. Manufacturing, real estate and rental leasing, and healthcare and social assistance were the highest contributors to Quebec’s GDP in 2022, representing 32 percent together.
The largest industries by revenue in 2022 were new car dealers, commercial banking, and gasoline and petroleum bulk stations. Other notable sectors include tourism, renewable energy, information technology, forestry, and agriculture.
Quebec also has significant mining potential and was the second-highest mineral-producing province by value nationwide in 2021. Around 30 minerals are mined in Quebec, including iron, gold, nickel, titanium, niobium, zinc, copper, silver, and stone.

SureHire offers a wide range of occupational testing programs and additional resources to support employers and their workers, including audiometric testing, fitness-to-work testing and lung health testing.
Regulatory bodies in Quebec
The Commission des normes, de l’équité, de la santé et de la sécurité du travail (CNESST) is the point of contact for work-related services in Quebec. The CNESST is responsible for administering the Act Respecting Occupational Health and Safety (AROH), designed to eliminate workplace health and safety hazards.
CNESST shares information on labour standards, pay equity, and occupational health and safety. Companies with at least one full-time or part-time worker must register with CNESST. Through CNESST, employers can understand their responsibilities and obligations towards their workers.
Examples include:
- Understanding the steps to take in case of a workplace accident or illness
- Hazard identification and prevention
- Workplace health and safety training
- First aid in the workplace
Health and safety risks and challenges for Quebec employers
The 2022 University of Regina report on workplace fatalities and injuries showed that Quebec had almost 80,000 injuries in 2020, more than any other province. Similarly, the Association of Workers’ Compensation Boards of Canada (AWCBC) statistics consistently show Quebec has more accepted lost-time claims than any other jurisdiction. These statistics highlight the need for robust workplace health and safety policies and procedures in Quebec.
Traumatic injuries to muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints are the most frequent nature of injury in Quebec and other provinces.
In Quebec, common injury sources based on accepted lost-time claims included:
- Non-pressurized containers
- Furniture, cases, cabinets, racks, and shelves
- Material handling, metal, woodworking, and special material machinery
- Building materials
- Fasteners, connectors, ropes, and ties
- Machine, tool, and electric parts
- Vehicle and mobile equipment parts
- Floors, walkways, and ground surfaces
- Hand tools, especially non-powered
- Vehicles
- Atmospheric and environmental conditions
2019-2021 data shows the most common events causing lost time claim injuries in Quebec are:
- Being struck against or by an object
- Becoming caught in or compressed by equipment or objects
- Falls to a lower level
- Falls on the same level
- Bodily reaction
- Overexertion
- Exposure to caustic, poisonous, or allergenic substances
- Noise exposure
- Assaults and violent acts
Overexertion is one of the leading causes of lost time injury claims, yet it is largely avoidable. By understanding the predominant causes of workplace injury, employers can take steps to apply this knowledge to their workplace health and safety plan.
[Read about the common OHS risks and challenges in British Colombia, Alberta, the Territories, and Ontario].
Types of occupational tests for Quebec employers to consider
Quebec employers must consider the occupational health and safety tests most relevant to their industry and workers. Occupational testing is vital in improving workplace health and safety and protecting workers.
Given that manufacturing is one of Quebec’s dominant sectors, employers in this industry can invest in testing services related to the problems manufacturing workers and employers commonly face.
Manufacturing workers are often in very safety-sensitive roles if working with large or dangerous machinery. Lost-time claim injuries also show machinery as a common injury source. Therefore, drug and alcohol testing and reasonable suspicion training are essential to ensure employees are not impaired by drugs or alcohol, a vital component to operating machinery safely.
Noise exposure is one of Quebec’s most common causes of lose-time injury claims. Some manufacturing workers are exposed to high noise levels, as are workers in other significant sectors in Quebec, such as forestry, agriculture, and mining.
In Quebec workplaces with high noise levels, employers can invest in audiometric testing. Baseline tests help identify initial hearing concerns, and periodic testing measures hearing changes or deterioration over time. Employers can select mobile testing for convenience and time efficiency.
Retail trade and the service sector, in general, are predominant in Quebec. Employees in these job roles often deal with sensitive information. Additionally, the risk of employee theft is high in the retail sector. Therefore, background and criminal record checks may be imperative.
Quebec employers can choose Fitness to Work Testing for any workers in a physical job or those carrying out repetitive tasks. This type of testing helps identify any pre-existing issues and helps determine whether the worker is a good fit for the role.

SureHire offers a wide range of occupational testing programs and additional resources to support employers and their workers, including audiometric testing, fitness-to-work testing and lung health testing.
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Are you an Ontario-based employer trying to understand provincial workplace safety governing bodies and requirements? Knowing your obligations and ensuring compliance can be challenging. Read on to find out what you need to know to protect your workers.
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Ontario employers must understand the health and safety risks most relevant to their industry and workforce. This knowledge allows them to adopt a solid workplace health and safety plan to reduce the incidence of occupational hazards that could result in injury or death.
This article highlights Ontario’s top economic sectors, primary health and safety regulatory bodies, and province-specific health and safety risks and challenges. Employers will also understand where to start when determining the most vital occupational testing services for their organization.
Top economic sectors in Ontario
Ontario boasts a diverse economy and is the largest of any province or territory in Canada, at approximately 38 percent of the country’s GDP. As the country’s most populated province, it makes sense that Ontario accounts for such a significant portion of GDP.
The service sector is the province’s most significant, comprising nearly 80 percent of the economy. The goods sector is responsible for the remaining 20 percent of the economy, with manufacturing comprising more than half of this and construction around one-third.
Ontario is also Canada’s leading manufacturing province, covering around 46 percent of the country’s manufacturing GDP. However, as highlighted, the service sector is the most dominant industry. Manufacturing comes in at approximately 12 percent of the province’s total GDP. Other notable industries in Ontario include technology and mining.

SureHire offers a wide range of occupational testing programs and additional resources to support employers and their workers, including audiometric testing, fitness-to-work testing and lung health testing.
Regulatory bodies in Ontario
Ontario employers must know the provincial organizations governing occupational safety and health. The Ontario Ministry of Labour oversees the province’s health and safety initiatives and legislation and enforces the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OSHA).
This Act provides a legal framework to protect Ontario workers from work-related health and safety hazards. It establishes duties for various parties, from employers to owners, supervisors, workers, and supplies, and enforces compliance. Employers can follow guidelines from OSHA (not to be confused with the American organization) to develop measures and procedures for preventing and dealing with workplace hazards.
There are some limitations to OSHA’s application for some farmers and teachers. Also, OSHA does not apply to federally-regulated workplaces, like banks, airlines, post offices, and interprovincial transportation services. Employment and Social Development Canada regulates federal workplaces using the Canada Labour Code.
Ontario employers must also understand sector-specific regulations, such as those for construction projects, mines and mining plants, and health care and residential facilities. The Ontario Ministry of Labour also covers guidelines for specific health hazards and types of hazardous work. Employers can refer to the ministry for incident and illness reporting and health and safety awareness training.
Health and Safety Help offers expert advice for Ontario employers about compliance with provincial regulations and laws.
Health and safety risks and challenges for Ontario employers
Ontario had 255,000 registered work-related health and safety claims in 2022, totalling more than $2 billion in benefits payments. Of the allowed claims, over 82,000 resulted in lost work time, and sprains and strains were a leading injury type.
A first glance at workplace disabling injury and fatality statistics shows higher percentages in Ontario than in other provinces. However, knowing that Ontario is the most populated province, these statistics don’t offer valid comparisons.
Ontario had among the lowest disabling injury and fatality rates by province and territory for 2020. Such statistics are obtained by adjusting for the total number of hours worked. Overall, Ontario boasts a lower frequency of lost-time injury claims than any other province.
In 2020, the construction sector had the highest percentage of traumatic fatalities in Ontario, at 31 percent. Transportation and warehousing were second at 15 percent and manufacturing third at 11 percent.
Ontario employers should understand the most significant workplace hazards related to their industry. Some sector-specific risks and challenges are listed below for two small yet high-risk sectors in Ontario.
Construction
Construction makes up only eight percent of the Ontario workforce but has the highest number of occupational fatalities. Fall hazards pose the most considerable risk for critical injuries and deaths for Ontario-based construction workers. Employees are also at risk of being “struck’ by hazards from vehicles and equipment, dangers from operating heavy machinery, and noise-related hazards.
Mining
Although mining employs less than one percent of Ontario’s workforce, it has the second-highest death rate from workplace incidents and the third from occupational diseases.
Ground instability, water accumulation in mines, improper operating procedures for remote control equipment, and the safe storage, transport, and use of explosives are some of the mining industry’s significant challenges.
Occupational tests Ontario employers should consider
Ontario employers can select appropriate occupational tests based on their industry’s most significant health and safety risks and challenges.
Because the service sector dominates Ontario’s economic landscape, service industry employers should understand which occupational tests are most crucial for their workplace. In this industry, employees often deal with sensitive information, and therefore, background checks such as criminal record checks may be vital.
As Canada’s leading manufacturing province, many Ontario-based manufacturing employees are likely wondering about the most relevant tests for this sector. Manufacturing jobs often involve repetitive work, increasing the risk of repetitive strain injuries. Since strains and sprains are a leading injury type in Ontario workplaces, manufacturing employers can use Fitness-to-Work testing to help reduce the risks.
Manufacturing employees often work with dangerous machinery. Drugs and alcohol mustn’t impair these workers so everyone can stay safe. Therefore, employers can use drug and alcohol testing and invest in Reasonable Suspicion Training to help enforce a safer workplace.
Ontario employers in small yet high-risk sectors like construction and mining may need audiometric testing for employees because work environments are often loud. A lung health program including testing services such as spirometry may be imperative for mining employees exposed to dangerous substances.

SureHire offers a wide range of occupational testing programs and additional resources to support employers and their workers, including audiometric testing, fitness-to-work testing and lung health testing.
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TAKEAWAY: This article covers the common OHS risks, challenges, and compliance regulations to help employers in the territories stay on top of their OHS responsibilities and ensure their workplace campaigns are safe and effective.
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Are you a small business operator in Canada’s territories? As an employer, worker health and safety are among your highest priorities. Failure to protect employees from preventable workplace hazards can have significant ramifications at a business and individual level.
Given the wide range of occupational health and safety risks and regulatory requirements for northern employers, it can be challenging to figure out which safety management strategies are most effective.
Canada’s three territories, Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut, lie in the northern part of the country. Unlike the country’s provinces, the federal government delegates the territories’ powers, and therefore, they have no sovereignty as such.
The territories cover over one-third of Canada’s land mass yet are home to only 0.3 percent of the population. Differences in major industries and health and safety challenges are evident when comparing the territories with Canada’s provinces. Employers must understand the issues relevant to the territories to help keep their workers safe and healthy.

SureHire offers a wide range of occupational testing programs and additional resources to support employers and their workers, including audiometric testing, fitness-to-work testing and lung health testing.
Top Economic Sectors in the Territories
Canada’s territories occupy remote areas, meaning major industries differ from the provinces. While agriculture, forestry, and manufacturing are mainstays in several provinces, these industries are not significant in the territories. Weather and soil conditions make farming and agriculture challenging, and expensive labour and supplies mean that manufacturing is not a substantial part of the economy.
Mining occupies a prominent place in the territories’ economic activity. Statistics highlight strong growth in gold and silver mining in Yukon and Nunavut and a notable increase in diamond mining in the Northwest Territories in 2021.
Mineral and phosphate mining, gasoline and petroleum bulk stations, and supermarkets and grocery stores are the Northwest Territories’ largest industries by revenue. Yukon’s most prominent industries by revenue are gold and silver ore mining, copper, nickel, lead, and zinc mining, and gasoline and petroleum bulk stations.
Significant sectors in Nunavut include mineral exploration and mining, traditional harvesting, fishing, tourism, and art.
Mining, public administration, real estate, and rental leasing were the highest contributors to GDP in the Northwest Territories and Yukon in 2022. The 2021 statistics were similar and show that mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction is the top sector by GDP in the Northwest Territories and Nunavut, while public administration comes out slightly higher in Yukon.
Transportation and warehousing, retail trade, and accommodation and food services were the highest contributing sectors for employment in the Northwest Territories. Retail trade, mining, healthcare, and social assistance were the most significant contributors to the Yukon territory.
Workplace Health and Safety Regulatory Bodies in the Territories
Employers must know about their territory’s occupational health and safety regulatory bodies. Such agencies promote, coordinate, administer, and enforce health and safety regulations to reduce workplace illness, injuries, and fatalities.
The Workers’ Safety & Compensation Commission (WSCC) administers health and safety acts in the Northwest Territories and Nunavut. They cover the Safety Act and Regulations, Mine Health and Safety Act and Regulations, Explosive Use Acts and Regulations, and Summary Convictions Procedures.
The Yukon Worker’s Safety and Compensation Board aims to protect Yukon workers by preventing disability, providing compensation, providing workplace safety training and inspections, and offering service and support for injured workers. The board enforces the Yukon Occupational Health and Safety Act.
Health and Safety Risks and Challenges for Territories Employers
Given the tiny population across the Canadian territories, it’s not always straightforward to look at injury statistics if they’re based purely on the numbers of injuries and fatalities compared with more densely populated areas of the country.
However, a 2019 annual occupational injury report for federally-regulated employees offered insights into injury and fatality rates in the territories. Nunavut had a higher Disabling Injury Frequency Rate (DIFR) than any other province or territory.
Conversely, Nunavut was one of only three provinces or territories reporting zero workplace fatalities in 2019. However, the Northwest Territories and Yukon had higher Fatal Injury Frequency Rates (FIFR) than any other provinces or territories in Canada.
These statistics highlight the need for robust workplace health and safety programs in the territories. Despite the small population base, workplace injuries and fatalities are relatively high. 2016-2020 data also confirmed a higher Five-year Average Injury Fatality Rate in the territories compared with Canada’s provinces.
The Yukon Workers’ Safety & Compensation Board accepted the highest number of injury claims from Northwest Territories and Nunavut workers related to contact with objects and equipment and bodily reaction and exertion in 2020 and 2021. Falls were also a common cause of injury.
Trades, Transport, Equipment Operators, and Related Occupations had by far the highest number of claims compared with other industries.
These statistics help highlight priority health and safety areas for employers in the Canadian territories.
Occupational Tests Territories Employers Should Consider
Given that mining is the dominant industry in Canada’s territories, we’ll highlight occupational tests relevant to this industry. Mining consistently comes up as one of the country’s deadliest industries, so strong health and safety policies and procedures are imperative for mining industry employers.
The territories are remote regions, and mining is an occupation that requires employees to work in areas that are usually even more remote than workers in other industries. Therefore, employers should consider comprehensive medical examinations for workers, considering healthcare is often far away.
Workers are often exposed to harmful substances, such as coal dust, so a lung health monitoring program is essential. Employers can select testing services such as chest x-rays, mask-fit testing, and spirometry testing to help protect employees. Audiometric testing may also be required due to loud work environments.
Transportation and trade workers in the territories had high injury claim rates, highlighting the need for a robust health and safety focus in these industries.
Transportation workers have highly safety-sensitive positions, so drug and alcohol testing should be a high priority. Employers can choose from DOT or non-DOT random testing, as applicable, and carry out Reasonable Suspicion Training to raise awareness among supervisors and employees.
Tradespeople often have physically demanding job roles, so employers in this industry can invest in Fitness-to-Work Testing. This testing ensures the worker is a good fit for their role and ultimately helps decrease the incidence of work-related injuries from factors such as over-exertion.

SureHire offers a wide range of occupational testing programs and additional resources to support employers and their workers, including audiometric testing, fitness-to-work testing and lung health testing.
You May Also Be Interested In…
- SureHire Announces Acquisition of Spectrum Safety Services
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Employers cannot initiate reasonable suspicion testing without first going through the 5-step process. Reasonable suspicion training provides critical information about how to initiate reasonable suspicion testing, including the 5-step process and other tools that employers can use to help manage the misuse of alcohol and drugs in the workplace. - SureHire Occupational Testing Acquires COHR Health: A Positive Step Towards Safe, Healthy, Productive Workforces and Communities
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Learn how to proactively mitigate occupational noise risks and help prevent NIHL among workers.

