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FOR RELEASE     #08-123
May 23, 2008

New Requirement for Government of Yukon Contracts

WHITEHORSE - Effective January 1, 2009, the Government of Yukon is introducing the Certificate of Recognition (COR) as a new safety requirement on construction contracts.
 
"The Government of Yukon supports the adoption of safety practices that can reduce accidents and injuries," Highways and Public Works Minister Archie Lang said. "By adopting the COR certification requirement, we are sending the message that the safety of contractors, workers, and Yukoners is a top priority in business and in government"

COR is an occupational health and safety certification program delivered in Yukon by Northern Safety Network Yukon. It aims to reduce human and financial costs of workplace accidents and injuries by creating a level standard for safety training in construction related work.

This new requirement will apply to contracts for construction. It will be introduced in three phases based on the dollar value of the contract. During the first phase, the new requirement will apply to contracts equal to, or greater than, $500,000.

"We established a program that benefits employers and employees alike," Paul Smythe, Manager for Northern Safety Network Yukon, said. "As a response to the construction industry's request, the program aims to reduce human and financial costs related to accidents and injuries at the workplace."

For more information on the new COR requirement and the phased implementation schedule, please visit www.hpw.gov.yk.ca.

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Contact:  
Matthew Grant    
Cabinet Communications  
Government of Yukon
(867) 633-7961    
matthew.grant@gov.yk.ca
Karla Ter Voert
Communications Analyst
Government of Yukon
(867) 456-3825
karla.tervoert@gov.yk.ca