A Firm can be a valuable asset to any organization. However, with many available consultants out there, how do you know which is the right one for you?

Here are some things to keep in mind:

It is important to determine if the Consulting Firm has the appropriate skills, knowledge and academic and practical qualifications to provide the appropriate support. Although academic credentials can be great, on-site experience in your industry will help ensure that a consultant can appropriately implement legislative requirements to your workplace.

Professional Organizations & Memberships can help ensure that a consultant is staying up to date on the latest in health and safety, and has the appropriate designation and resources for your needs. A balance of professional, academic and practical experience is essential for any safety consultant.

Keep in mind that in Ontario, a third party consultant for WSIB claims management MUST be a licensed paralegal or lawyer. Since October 31, 2007, the WSIB only accepts representatives who have applied for licensing through the Law Society of Upper Canada (LSUC) and whose names are included on the Lawyer and Paralegal Directory.

An excellent way to determine a consulting firm’s effectiveness is to look at their clients and seek references. Do they represent others in your industry? Word of mouth is an excellent way to know that the firm has an effective track record and positive reputation. Professional liability protection is also important. Any reputable consulting firm will have Professional Liability Insurance to protect their business and their clients.

Finding the right fit is important in any partnership. Just as your employees need to mesh well with your workplace team and culture, so does an effective consultant. Ensure that your values and goals align, and that you have the same vision. Are they going to help meet your needs and provide solutions in your workplace? Do they take an individualized approach specific to your requirements? Every workplace, industry and situation is different. It is important that an effective consultant can provide an individualized approach to your health and safety needs. “One size fits all” does not work in safety.

A consulting company can help guide your team towards achieving a healthy and safe workplace. Safety First Consulting can provide you with the knowledge, training and resources to optimize safety. We can ensure compliance with your legislative requirements, find gaps in your Health and Safety Management System and work towards filling them. Our team or licensed paralegals can manage your WSIB claims, reduce accident costs, implement return to work programs and represent you in WSIB appeals and at the Workplace Safety Insurance Appeals Tribunal (WSIAT).

Call us today and see how we are right for you!