Make It Safe Okanagan: Bringing Safety, Sustainability, and Profitability to the Workplace

The Make It Safe conference is returning to Kelowna on April 10 at the Coast Capri Hotel, bringing together industry professionals, safety experts, and business leaders to discuss pressing safety concerns in manufacturing. Hosted by the Manufacturing Safety Alliance of BC, the event is part of a larger series held throughout the province, with a mission to improve workplace safety, reduce incidents, and foster a culture of proactive risk management.

Wayne Arondus, CEO of the Manufacturing Safety Alliance of BC, highlighted the significance of this annual gathering. “This is our third year bringing Make It Safe to Kelowna, and our goal is to connect with industry professionals, discuss emerging risks, and provide actionable solutions for improving workplace safety,” he explained. The conference will feature expert-led sessions on safety trends, regulatory updates, and best practices for employers and employees alike.

This year’s theme, People, Planet, Profit, underscores the conference’s holistic approach. Arondus emphasized that workplace safety is not just about compliance but also about creating a sustainable and profitable work environment. “Bringing people together through training and discussions is key to knowledge transfer,” he said. “We also recognize the impact of environmental factors, like wildfires, on workplace safety. And ultimately, businesses can only thrive when employees are both physically and mentally well.”

The event will feature a full day of programming, including keynote speeches, fireside chats, and hands-on training. One highlight is the return of the Dust Hazard Training Course, a two-day certification program addressing combustible dust risks across various industries—not just forestry, but also food processing, metalworking, and more. “Many don’t realize how common combustible dust hazards are,” Arondus noted. “Even substances like flour or cinnamon can pose serious risks under the right conditions.” Live demonstrations will illustrate these dangers and offer prevention strategies.

As safety regulations continue to evolve, the conference will also cover upcoming changes in workplace safety laws, including updates on Bill 41, first aid requirements, and emergency planning. Arondus pointed out that regulatory shifts in combustible dust safety and crane operations are on the horizon for 2025 and 2026, making these discussions particularly timely.

For business leaders and safety professionals who haven’t yet attended, Arondus had this message: “This is a unique opportunity to gain practical, real-world safety leadership insights without having to travel to Vancouver. We focus on bringing relevant, high-impact discussions and expert perspectives that attendees can take back to their workplaces and implement immediately.”

The event is expected to draw 250–300 attendees, with registration available through the Make It Safe website or the Manufacturing Safety Alliance of BC’s page. Various ticketing options, including group rates and standalone training courses, are available to ensure accessibility.

For those looking to stay ahead of emerging safety challenges, Make It Safe Okanagan promises to be an invaluable event, offering actionable strategies, networking opportunities, and the latest insights into workplace safety and leadership.