Stay prepared and up to date with farm safety requirements

The Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD) has launched its 2026–2027 Farming & Agriculture Compliance campaign, running through March 31, 2027.

As part of this campaign, farm operations across Ontario may receive visits from inspectors. These inspections are part of the province’s efforts to support safer workplaces and ensure that farms meet requirements under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA).

These inspections are a regular part of maintaining workplace health and safety across the province, and being prepared helps ensure your operation continues to run smoothly.

What might be reviewed during an inspection

During a visit, MLITSD inspectors may review key areas such as:

• Equipment safety and maintenance (tractors, forklifts, tools)
• Machine guarding
• Falls from heights (equipment and structures)
• Electrical safety and lockout/tagout procedures
• High-risk activities such as tree removal or logging
• Heat stress prevention
• Worker training and health & safety awareness

These are some of the more common areas tied to safety risks in agriculture and are part of the Ministry’s ongoing focus.

Are your inspections up to date?

Regular inspections are already a key part of running a safe farm, and they’re also required.

In Ontario:

• Workplace inspections must be completed monthly by a health and safety representative or committee
• Equipment should be checked regularly and as needed
• Keeping records is important to demonstrate that inspections are being done

But beyond requirements, inspections are simply a practical way to stay on top of your operation and catch things early.

Why these checks matter

A consistent inspection routine helps you:

• Keep an eye on equipment and site conditions
• Notice small changes (like unusual wear, leaks, or noises)
• Track recurring issues over time
• Maintain a safer, more efficient workplace

Often, it’s the small observations that make the biggest difference when addressed early.

Keeping things simple and consistent

Staying prepared doesn’t have to be complicated. Most farms are already on the right track; it comes down to maintaining consistency.

• Completing inspections regularly
• Keeping documentation organized
• Making sure workers are trained and aware
• Addressing issues as they come up

When these practices are part of your routine, inspections tend to feel straightforward and manageable.

Support for Your Inspection Process

If you’re looking to review or strengthen your current safety practices, additional support can help provide clarity and direction. At Elite, we offer:

• Farm Safety Audits & Site Inspections: A detailed review of your operation to help identify gaps and provide practical recommendations
• Inspection Preparation Support: Guidance to help you review your documentation, inspection processes, and overall safety practices

Thinking it’s time for a review?

Book a farm audit or site inspection with Elite Agri to make sure everything is up to date.

Inspections & Audits by Elite Agri Solutions

Source

Ontario Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD) – Workplace Compliance Initiatives

Workplace compliance initiatives | Ontario.ca