Bridging the Gap Between Academia and Industry: WorkBright Recognized for Guest Lecture on OHS Management Systems
WorkBright was recognized by Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University) for sharing practical insights on OHS management systems during a guest lecture in their Occupational Health & Safety and Environmental Management Systems course recently.
WorkBright’s founder, Mike Russo (BASc, MHSc, CRSP, ROH), was invited as a guest lecturer by the School of Occupational and Public Health – Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) to share practical insights with students preparing to enter the health and safety profession.
There was a massive snow storm that day but for students who trekked through the elements, a lot was discussed. The session focused on how students can help organizations implement an OHS management system—and the challenges they often encounter along the way.
Key Themes Shared with Future OHS Professionals about OHS Management Systems
Mike shared key reasons why companies pursue occupational health and safety management systems and certifications like ISO 45001 and COR®, along with the day-to-day issues that often get in the way of successful implementation.
Mike Russo of WorkBright speaking with students from the School of Occupational and Public Health at Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University). During the session, Mike discussed why companies implement OHS management systems and the advantages of certifications like ISO 45001 and COR®.
1. Why Organizations Implement an OHSMS
Employers adopt management systems to reduce risk, improve compliance, and demonstrate due diligence. In recent years, companies that have achieved certification under ISO 45001 or COR® have also gained a competitive edge when bidding on certain construction projects.
2. Challenges Organizations Often Face in Implementing OHS Management Systems
Mike shared some key challenges organizations often experience when implementing an OHS management systems and pursuing COR® and ISO 45001 certification.
These included:
- Misunderstanding of requirements in the chosen standard (e.g., ISO 45001 or COR®)
- Limited familiarity with the certification processes
- Weak recordkeeping and documentation practices
- Lack of leadership buy-in or cultural alignment.
3. Strategies to Improve OHSMS Implementation
Mike offered students insight on strategies they can carry forward to the employers they work with to help them succeed.
These included:
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Learning the fundamentals of OHS management system standards, including ISO 45001 and COR®
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Understanding how health and safety is managed by the company they work for by referring to documentation and comparing it to actual workplace practices
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Exploring and understanding the certification process and the importance of continual improvement, which is often where employers need the most guidance
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Considering how management commitment and worker engagement influence the effectiveness of an OHSMS rollout.
Having Mike as a guest lecturer in our Occupational Health and Safety Management course was an invaluable experience for our students. He provided real-world insights into the challenges workplaces face when implementing an OHS management system and shared practical strategies that students can apply in their future roles as internal OHS professionals.
Contributing to the Broader OHS Community
Opportunities like this align with our values at WorkBright. We believe that sharing practical knowledge not only benefits future OHS professionals but also strengthens the broader health and safety community.
WorkBright routinely supports organizations in building and improving their OHSMS programs. We also offer tailored consulting for clients working toward COR® certification or seeking alignment with ISO 45001.
We’re proud to contribute to the development of tomorrow’s safety leaders.