Victoria (June 1, 2020) – The Progressive Contractors Association of Canada (PCA), whose member companies employ thousands of B.C. construction workers, is pleased to embrace the B.C. Builders Code, a program that sets out a standard of conduct for workers on construction sites.
As the construction industry adjusts to a “new normal” during COVID-19, PCA is committed to reducing all workplace risk.
“As progressive contractors we want to help lead the way and show that the construction sector is committed to setting the bar higher in both workplace safety and inclusiveness,” said Paul de Jong, President of the Progressive Contractors Association of Canada (PCA). “As our construction workforce becomes more diverse, industry has a responsibility to ensure all worksites are risk-free and welcoming.”
Between now and 2029, B.C.’s construction industry will need to offset the retirement of more than 25,000 construction workers. Although B.C. does better than most provinces, women still account for only 6.4 percent of its construction workforce, while Indigenous people represent approximately 5.7 percent of B.C.’s construction labour force.
The B.C. Builders Code is intended to help construction employers communicate a reasonable, consistent, standard of behavior. It defines an “acceptable worksite” as a starting point for reducing risk and ensuring a safe and productive workplace for all workers.
“Building
a sustainable construction workforce requires a shift in culture,” said Keri
Salvisburg, Vice President, Member Services, PCA. “There’s simply no place for
outdated attitudes and biases, not if our industry wants to convince more job
seekers that construction offers rewarding, life-long careers.”
“We appreciate PCA’s leadership in supporting the Builders Code,” said Chris Atchison, President and CEO, of the B.C. Construction Association. “This is an excellent time to show our commitment to the health and well-being of B.C.’s construction workforce in everything we do.”
The B.C. Builders Code is spearheaded by the B.C. Construction Association and is co-funded by the Ministry of Advanced Education, Skills and Training, with financial contributions from WorkSafe BC, the Industry Training Authority, LNG Canada, the BCCA Employee Benefits Trust, and the B.C. Construction Safety Alliance. It is also supported by B.C.’s four Regional Construction Associations and the Minerva Foundation of B.C.
About the Progressive Contractors Association of Canada (PCA)
With offices in BC, Alberta and Ontario, PCA is the voice of progressive unionized employers in Canada’s construction industry. Our member companies are responsible for 40 percent of energy and natural resource construction projects in British Columbia and Alberta and are leaders in infrastructure construction across Canada. PCA member companies employ more than 25,000 skilled construction workers in Canada, represented primarily by CLAC.
For further information, contact: Danna O’Brien, Danna@obriencommunications.ca 416-500-0699