A Certificate of Recognition (COR) or a Small Employer COR (SECOR) is awarded to employers who have successfully developed and implemented a health and safety program that meets provincial standards. The COR certifies that the employer’s health and safety management system has been evaluated by a certified auditor and met the requirements of the provincial standards. Certificates are issued by provincial governments.
Benefits of COR/SECOR
Achieving and maintaining a valid COR is required for earning a financial incentive through the WCB Partnerships in Injury Reduction program. Also, it is not unusual for Alberta corporations to expect contractors bidding on projects to hold a valid COR.
- By achieving COR, employers must demonstrate that their health and safety management system has been developed, implemented, and evaluated on an annual basis through comprehensive internal and external audits.
- Audits will typically include interviews, documentation review, and observation techniques to evaluate how well the employer is able to identify, assess, and control risks to workers.
- The audit criteria used by COR are recognized by industries throughout Canada. Your company will be part of a nationwide network participating in and promoting health and safety excellence.
- In a situation where you must demonstrate that you have an active health and safety management system, participation in COR is an asset.
- Providing immediate proof that you have an effective health and safety management system in place will give your organization a competitive advantage, possibly allowing you to qualify ahead of others for certain jobs.
- Protecting the health and safety of all workers at all times is the right thing to do. Effective development and maintenance of a health and safety management system is a proactive approach to eliminating workplace injuries and illnesses.
- A firm’s corporate image and reputation will be enhanced within industry and community.
- Commitment to a strong culture of safety will attract safety-conscious workers, drive employee morale and engagement.