Prime Contractor Responsibilities in Ontario: What You Need to Know
5 min read
When multiple employers work on the same Ontario construction project, the Occupational Health and Safety Act designates one party as the 'prime contractor' — and that designation comes with serious legal obligations. For general contractors, project owners, and construction managers working in Ottawa, Eastern Ontario, and across the province, understanding prime contractor duties is essential to staying compliant and protecting your business.
- 1
On any Ontario construction project where multiple employers are present, a 'prime contractor' must be designated — typically the general contractor or project owner
- 2
The prime contractor is responsible for ensuring all employers and workers on the project comply with the OHSA and its regulations
- 3
If a project owner does not designate a prime contractor in writing, the project owner themselves becomes the prime contractor by default
- 4
The prime contractor must establish a process for identifying and addressing hazards created by the work of multiple employers on the same site
- 5
Sub-contractors do not lose their own obligations under the OHSA — both the prime contractor and sub-contractors carry duties simultaneously
- 6
A written contract clearly stating the prime contractor designation is essential — verbal agreements do not provide legal protection
- 7
Ministry of Labour inspectors will look for evidence that the prime contractor is actively coordinating safety, not just holding the title on paper
Besoin d'aide experte?
Monarch Groupe Santé et Sécurité aide les entreprises d'Ottawa et d'Ontario à rester conformes et à bâtir de meilleures cultures de sécurité.
Get Expert Guidance on Construction Safety CompliancePlus de guides SST
Contractor Safety Management in Ontario: What Every Business Owner Must Know
5 min read
COR™ CertificationWhat Is COR™ Certification and Does Your Business Need It?
4 min read
Workplace SafetyTop 5 Fall Protection Requirements for Ontario Construction Sites
5 min read
WHMISWHMIS 2015: What Every Ontario Employer Must Know
4 min read