Safety is the cornerstone of everything we do at Sandpiper Contracting LLP. It’s embedded in our planning, our processes, and the way we work — from initial site prep to project completion.
Our safety program is built on prevention, training, and accountability. Every employee, from new hires to senior supervisors, plays a vital role in maintaining a culture where safety comes first.
Full-Time Safety Leadership
To keep our safety practices consistent and effective, Sandpiper employs a full-time Construction Safety Officer (C.S.O.). The C.S.O. works hands-on with all crews and management to ensure our policies are followed on-site and improved where needed.
- The C.S.O. conducts weekly site reviews with every crew, and all findings are documented.
- Monthly company-wide safety meetings are led by the C.S.O., and meeting minutes are distributed to all employees.
- Daily oversight and spot checks help reinforce the standards we set for safe work.
Before a project begins, our Project Managers develop a site-specific safety plan and hazard assessment. This ensures each job starts with a clear understanding of the risks and controls in place.
Daily & Weekly Safety Practices
- Shoring Inspections: All trench shoring and excavation safety systems are thoroughly inspected before each day’s use.
- Tailgate Meetings: Weekly on-site safety meetings (“tailgate talks”) are held to address current job site conditions, potential risks, and any incidents or near-misses.
- Operator Equipment Reviews – Every day, operators complete a checklist for the equipment they’re using. These forms are submitted weekly to our full-time mechanics for review.
- Documentation & Oversight: Safety records, including inspection logs and meeting notes, are submitted to our head office regularly to ensure compliance, monitor trends, and support continuous improvement.
Training & Certification
All field personnel receive comprehensive training, including:
- Level 1 Occupational First Aid – Ensures every team member can respond to workplace emergencies.
- WHMIS – Training on safe handling of hazardous materials.
- Confined Space Entry & Retrieval – Covers safe access and emergency preparedness for enclosed areas.
- Trench Shoring & Excavation – Includes certification in proper shoring, shielding, and slope safety.
- Ground Disturbance & Utility Locating – Prevents incidents through proper identification of underground infrastructure.
Equipment Safety & Fleet Maintenance
Reliable equipment is critical to a safe worksite. Sandpiper employs two full-time, on-duty mechanics who oversee the maintenance and repair of our fleet and heavy machinery. Regular inspections, preventative maintenance, and prompt repairs ensure all equipment meets or exceeds safety standards — minimizing downtime and reducing the risk of onsite hazards.
Safety Is Everyone’s Responsibility
At Sandpiper, safety isn’t just a policy — it’s part of how we operate every day. Whether it’s navigating heavy traffic zones or working in tight trenches, our crews are trained to stay alert, follow best practices, and look out for one another.
We back that up with regular training and refreshers. Out here, we’re always adapting — new rules, new gear, new challenges. We keep the whole team in the loop and ready to handle whatever comes our way.
We believe a safe site is a productive site. That’s why we encourage open communication, take concerns seriously, and never hesitate to stop work when something doesn’t feel right. It’s not just about getting the job done — it’s about getting it done safely, every time. Safety isn’t optional — it’s our standard.