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Canadian Airports Safety Week – Day 1

Hazard Awareness
an aerial view of a city

On Day 1 of Canadian Airports Safety Week (CASW), we will focus on worker and construction safety, including hazard and threat awareness, personal protective equipment, and the shared responsibility we all have for maintaining a safe and secure airport. 

On-site activities

Pearson Safety Cash Cab: In Person 

When: Monday, September 21 

Where: 

  • Terminal 1: 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.
  • Terminal 3: 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. 

What: The Toronto Pearson Safety team will visit locations on foot to offer airport employees the opportunity to test their knowledge on our daily safety and security themes. Participants will win on-the-spot rewards as well as entry into our daily draw for a cash prize! 

How: Refresh your safety and security knowledge, then keep an eye out for the Safety team to play and win! 

Online learning

On Day 1 of CASW, we will review:

  • Hazard and threat awareness 
  • The Dirty Dozen human factors 
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE) 
  • Designated smoking areas 
  • Safety engagement opportunities and resources 

Once you have reviewed the day’s learning material, test your knowledge by taking today’s quiz

Participants in today's quiz will be automatically entered into a prize draw for a chance to win one of our amazing prizes. Read the Terms and Conditions here.

Hazard and threat awareness

Safety and security start with awareness. Whether you’re an employee or contractor, recognizing hazards and threats helps protect people, equipment and airport operations.

What is a hazard? 

A hazard is any source or situation that can potentially cause harm to employees’ health or safety. 

Examples include: 

  • Unsafe work conditions
  • Unsafe use of equipment
  • Unsafe work activities 

Examples of aviation hazards 

  • Wildlife
  • Foreign object debris (FOD)
  • Cut-offs
  • Runway incursions 

Examples of occupational hazards 

  • Chemical hazards, such as exposure to harmful chemicals in the workplace
  • Biological hazards, such as exposure to infectious bacteria or viruses
  • Ergonomic hazards, such as poor workstation design or lifting techniques that can lead to musculoskeletal injuries
  • Physical hazards, such as noise, vibration, temperature extremes and radiation that can affect employee health 

What is a threat? 

A threat is any situation or activity that could compromise the safety, security or integrity of people, facilities or operations. 

Examples include: 

  • Unauthorized access to restricted areas 
  • Suspicious behaviour or activities 
  • Unattended items 
  • Security breaches 
  • Aggressive or threatening behaviour 

Learn more about airport hazards and threats here: THIRA Hazard Glossary of Terms

The Dirty Dozen 

The Dirty Dozen are twelve common human factors that can contribute to workplace errors and incidents: 

  • Lack of communication 
  • Complacency 
  • Lack of knowledge 
  • Distraction 
  • Lack of teamwork 
  • Fatigue 
  • Lack of resources 
  • Pressure 
  • Lack of assertiveness 
  • Stress 
  • Lack of awareness 
  • Norms 

Our goal of zero injuries and incidents is reflected in our culture of prevention. Familiarize yourself with our prevention program initiatives. 

Check your PPE 

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is any clothing or equipment that is used by a worker to protect them from injury or illness.

  • PPE can include safety footwear, vests and hearing protection.
  • Always wear the appropriate PPE for the hazards that you may encounter on the job or as required for your role.
  • Read the shift brief to learn more

Visibility: Stand out from all the rest, wear your safety vest! 

All airport staff are required to wear a high-visibility reflective safety vest when in certain areas of the airport, such as the apron and Baggage Road locations, among others. Speak with your supervisor if you are unsure when to wear your safety vest. 

Please review the PPE directive here

From September 20 to 26, all airport employees get 25% off at Mark’s with this coupon.

Designated smoking areas

Smoking and vaping are prohibited inside the building and in secure areas. Designated areas are located on the arrivals and departures curbs. We lead by example, so always use designated smoking areas. 

Check out the posters showing our Designated Smoking Areas.

Want to get more involved? 

We offer many opportunities to get engaged and make an impact: 

Eye on Safety Recognition Program 

Caught working safely? When you see safe behaviour in action, say something. Everyone can give a shout-out and submit an Eye on Safety Recognition nomination for employees who are setting the standard for safety. 

Learn more about the Eye on Safety Awards and how to nominate a colleague or organization today. 

Safety resources 

Health, Safety and Security are our top priorities at Toronto Pearson. Airport employees share responsibility for the safety and security of each person at the airport. We aim to keep the airport free of accidents and hazards and to operate in a safe manner. 

Do you require tools and resources such as posters or shift briefs?

Safety Stop: Your one stop for Safety 

Workplace Safety and Prevention Services (WSPS) 

Do you need support for your prevention program? 

Workplace Safety and Prevention Services (WSPS) supports Ontario businesses and workers by providing health and safety resources, training and expertise to help create safer workplaces.

After you take today’s quiz, be sure to join us again tomorrow for another learning opportunity and chance to win great prizes!