Threads of Life has released the 2025 State of Safety Survey, providing insights into workplace health, safety, and mental well-being across Canada. Conducted among Canadian business owners, hiring managers, and decision-makers, the survey reveals that while some barriers to improving workplace safety are declining, significant challenges persist.
The survey, which collected responses between February 27 and March 11, 2025, shows a decrease in factors that hinder safety protocols, including understaffing and the cost of safety training. Despite these improvements, 42% of respondents report rising mental health challenges among workers. Among understaffed workplaces, 74% struggle to reduce employee stress, indicating that staffing shortages remain a critical issue.
"Many barriers to improving safety are shrinking, but we're concerned with the volatility of external factors," says Eugene Gutierrez, executive director of Threads of Life, referring to economic turmoil caused by U.S. president Donald Trump and global tariffs. "Health and safety are often cut first during tough times. These findings should spark conversations and continued efforts to make safety and well-being a priority, no matter the climate."
The report also highlights significant differences in safety practices between unionized and non-unionized workplaces, with unionized businesses consistently reporting higher rates of safety protocol implementation. Additionally, larger businesses tend to have more established safety measures than smaller ones.
Mental health emerges as a key focus in this year’s survey, with 87% of respondents who witnessed increased mental health challenges taking action, most commonly through sick leave, employee assistance programs, and flexible work arrangements.
Gutierrez encourages ongoing dialogue and action to ensure safety remains a priority. "To those who share our passion for safe and healthy workplaces, stay strong. Stay focused. The work you do matters," he says.
By: State of Safety Survey 2025 highlights improvements and challenges | Canadian Occupational Safety
