As we cross the threshold into mid-2026, the security landscape of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) has reached a state of “Uncertainty and Complexity”. Toronto is no longer just a growing city; it is a global financial and logistical laboratory where the threats are as sophisticated as the systems built to stop them.

For those managing “Trophy Buildings,” international airports, and massive transit hubs like Union Station, the traditional “lock and key” era is over. The 2026 standard is High-Level Threat Protection: a convergent strategy that pairs the biological perfection of Canine Explosive Detection (EDD) with the machine velocity of Integrated Security Technology.

Why 2026 Demands a New Defensive Posture

• The FIFA Pressure Test: With the 2026 FIFA World Cup arriving in Toronto, security planners are bracing for an unprecedented influx of international visitors and heightened threat levels.
• Cyber-Physical Convergence: In 2026, a physical breach is often facilitated by a digital exploit. Protecting a facility now requires monitoring both the “boots on the ground” and the “bits on the wire”.
• The Accuracy Gap: While AI and sensors have advanced, nothing in 2026 matches the speed and mobility of a certified Canine EDD team for clearing densely populated areas.

The Biological Edge: Why Canine EDD is the Largest Private Security Asset in Canada

In a city as dense as Toronto, static sensors have limits. ASP Security Services has scaled to become the largest private Canine EDD company in Canada because we understand that biological detection is the ultimate “fail-safe”.

The Science of the Scent

Canines don’t just “smell”; they decode chemical layers.

• Layered Detection: A dog can discern between multiple ingredients, even when a scent is masked by perfumes or buried in complex cargo.
• Immediate Alerts: Thanks to a sense of smell far sharper than any 2026 electronic sensor, a canine can identify firearms, explosives, and trace elements almost immediately.
• Mobility & Speed: Canine teams can search event venues, government offices, and aircraft much faster and with higher accuracy than manual human teams.

Training Above Regulation Standards

ASP doesn’t just meet the provincial baseline; we exceed it. Our program is partnered with ICTS Europe, providing a global pool of over 200 dogs worldwide.

• Real-World Training: Our handlers and dogs train with real, not pseudo, explosives as required by law.
• Transport Canada Certified: Every team undergoes an intensive initial course and weekly maintenance training to ensure they meet the rigorous annual certification standards.
• Aviation-Grade Readiness: Our teams are specialized in Air Cargo K9 screening, working with major carriers to secure the global supply chain.

Convergent Solutions: When Technology Works Hand-in-Hand with Human Service

In 2026, “Software is Eating the World,” and security is no exception. At ASP, we use Convergent Solutions—where high-tech sensors, AI, and mobile platforms empower the handler on the floor.

The ‘Human-in-the-Loop’ Technology Shift

As AI agents become embedded in workflows, a critical reality has emerged: AI is only as safe as the human overseeing it.

1. Mobile Integrated Support: ASP’s mobile guards and handlers utilize sophisticated software and mobile training apps to stay connected to a central Security Operations Center (SOC).
2. Access & Egress Optimization: We use technology to secure airport facilities and Class A commercial perimeters, tailored to fit our clients’ specific environments.
3. Digital Transparency: Through our ISO 9001:2015 certified processes, every sweep, alert, and patrol is logged in real-time.

Securing the ‘New’ Downtown: Specialized Protection for Transit and Commercial Hubs

Toronto’s downtown core is no longer a collection of separate buildings; it is a connected ecosystem. As transit hubs like Union Station revitalize, the security challenges expand.

Aviation-Grade Security for Every Sector

Traditionally, high-level threat protection was reserved for airports. In 2026, ASP is bringing that “Aviation-Grade” discipline to:

• Arenas and Stadiums: Providing K9 sweeps for major league sports and concerts to ensure public safety in high-occupancy zones.
• Critical Infrastructure: Protecting energy grids and sensitive buildings with specialized tactical specialists.
• Class A Commercial: Protecting “trophy” high-rises from the rise in professionalized larceny and cyber-physical threats.

The Economics of Resilience: Why Integrated Security is a 2026 Business Imperative

For Toronto property owners, “Resilience” is no longer just a sustainability goal—it is a business imperative.

• The Cost of Waiting: With average police response times for commercial alarms reaching 42 minutes, private specialized response is the only way to mitigate loss.
• Liability Mitigation: Utilizing certified K9 teams and de-escalation-trained Ambassadors reduces the risk of viral “use of force” incidents.
• Brand Protection: A building that is perceived as safe, smart, and responsive attracts high-caliber tenants and protects long-term property value.

Security Matters™ Because Your Future Depends on It

As Toronto moves toward the global spotlight of 2026, the baseline for safety has reached a new height. You cannot protect a modern facility with legacy thinking. You need a partner that combines the human touch, the technological edge, and the biological perfection of the world’s best detection dogs.

At ASP, we don’t just provide guards; we provide Security Specialists who take ownership of the sites they protect. Because in the GTA, your reputation is your most valuable asset, and Security Matters™.

Is your facility’s 2026 security plan truly resilient?

Toronto is currently the fastest-growing city in North America. As our skyline expands into a dense laboratory of glass, steel, and high-value logistics, the definition of safety is shifting under our feet. For the directors of Class A commercial centers and international transit hubs like Pearson (YYZ), choosing a security partner is no longer a simple line item in a budget. It is a strategic move to protect brand equity and ensure that a localized incident doesn’t spiral into a viral PR disaster.

In 2026, “average” response times are no longer acceptable. When the clock is ticking, you don’t need a vendor; you need a partner who understands that Security Matters™.

Toronto’s Class A Market: Navigating the 2026 ‘Flight-to-Quality’ Security Paradigm

The GTA is currently witnessing a massive “flight-to-quality” in commercial real estate. Top-tier tenants are moving toward “Trophy Buildings” that offer more than just square footage. They want resilience. They want a “smart” ecosystem where physical and digital safety are seamlessly integrated.

However, this growth comes with a new breed of professionalized risk. While high-visibility street crime has seen some declines, the “theft economy” has matured. Organized retail crime and high-value property theft are now sophisticated, transnational enterprises.

The Rising “Theft Over $1,000” Trend

In 2024, Toronto recorded over 51,000 Major Crime Indicators (MCIs). While some categories cooled, Theft Over $1,000 emerged as a persistent threat, projected to hit 1,960 incidents by the end of 2025. This isn’t opportunistic shoplifting; it’s the targeting of high-value luxury retail, commercial equipment, and logistics hubs.

If your security strategy is still based on the risks of 2020, you are leaving your assets exposed to 2026-level threats.

The 42-Minute Gap: Quantifying the Cost of Police Latency for Commercial Properties

The most dangerous number in Toronto commercial security today is 42. That is the average police response time for a commercial alarm in the city.

The Reality of Public Resource Limits

While the Toronto Police Service (TPS) has improved response times for life-threatening Priority 1 calls, the burden on the system remains immense.

• Priority 2 Calls: Urgent but not life-threatening calls average a 54.2-minute wait.
• Priority 3 and 4 Calls: These non-emergency calls, which often involve commercial property disputes or trespassing, can wait between 57 and 89 minutes.
• Verified Response Protocol: Since 2018, Toronto police will not dispatch units to a burglar alarm unless it is verified by an eyewitness or video surveillance.

For a facility manager in the downtown core, waiting an hour for a response is not an option. A delay of even fifteen minutes can be the difference between a contained incident and a multi-million dollar economic disruption.

ASP Security Services: The 45-Minute Emergency Response Standard for the GTA

At ASP Security Services, we recognized this “Response Gap” and built a culture designed to close it. We don’t measure our success by “hours filled,” but by our ability to mobilize during the critical first hour of an incident.

The 45-Minute Commitment

ASP is capable of responding to emergency situations with less than 45 minutes notice. This is possible because we are a “right-sized,” highly responsive organization. Unlike massive, bureaucratic legacy firms, we maintain an engaged workforce that has the “bench strength” to pivot instantly to cover unforeseen challenges.

We provide the “Force Multiplier” that Toronto’s commercial sector needs. By providing the “eyewitness” verification required for police dispatch, we ensure that law enforcement is only called for confirmed crimes, helping our clients avoid false alarm levies and wasted time.

Beyond Static Guarding: The 4-Stage Engagement Process of the ASP Ambassador

The industry has traditionally viewed security as a “warm body” in a uniform. ASP has fundamentally rejected this by creating the Ambassador model. Our specialists are not just “present”; they are trained site stewards who understand that every location has a unique culture and personality.

The Engagement Framework

To mitigate the “unspoken fear” of viral liability and “use of force” incidents, our Ambassadors follow a sophisticated 4-stage process:

1. Active Crowd Scanning: Our team moves beyond static post monitoring to dynamic situational awareness, identifying pre-incident indicators before they escalate.
2. Proactive Engagement: We humanize the security presence through proactive interactions, lowering the “temperature” of the environment.
3. Targeted Conversation: We use behavioral observation to identify threats while maintaining a premium customer experience for tenants and visitors.
4. Course of Action: Our specialists make rapid, informed decisions based on proactive assessment rather than reactive panic.

This high-touch approach is “reliability insurance” for your property.

Cyber-Physical Convergence: Securing Toronto’s Smart Buildings and Critical Infrastructure

In 2026, the distinction between physical and digital security has effectively collapsed. Toronto’s commercial properties are now “smart” ecosystems utilizing AI, IoT, and cloud-based systems for everything from access control to HVAC.

Closing the Technological Blind Spots

Criminals are increasingly exploiting digital vulnerabilities to cause physical harm or operational paralysis. If your security provider focuses only on “boots on the ground” without integrating AI-driven monitoring, you are exposed.

ASP bridges this gap through Convergent Solutions. Our training is enhanced by cloud-based technology and mobile apps, empowering our specialists on the floor with a “deeper view” of the environment. We ensure that technology works “hand in hand” with our human service, creating a resilient defense for critical infrastructure.

ISO 9001:2015 Certification: Why Transparency is the Ultimate Asset in Security Partnerships

Trust in the security industry is often eroded by opaque reporting and a lack of management support. ASP addresses this through a commitment to Truly Transparent Partnerships.

The Standard of Excellence

ASP is ISO 9001:2015 certified for our administrative functions and our uniformed security guard services. This means our security programs are:

• Procedurally Driven: Every action is governed by a rigorous quality framework.
• Consistently Audited: We don’t just “set it and forget it.” Our teams undergo recurring training and performance audits 1–3 times per year.
• Client-Centric: We provide real-time digital reporting and direct communication with our leadership.

When you partner with ASP, you aren’t just buying a service; you are investing in a system of continual improvement.

The Strategic Outlook: Preparing for FIFA 2026 and Beyond

As Toronto prepares for the global stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the pressure on our security infrastructure will be unprecedented. Airport operations and downtown transit hubs are bracing for a massive influx of international visitors, which will serve as a “pressure test” for our city’s safety protocols.

The Resilience Imperative

“Resilience” has evolved from a buzzword into a core business imperative. BOMA Canada reports that trophy property owners are now embedding risk management into every layer of their operations.

ASP is uniquely positioned for this future. As the largest private Canine EDD (Explosive Detection) provider in Canada, and with the global backing of our parent company, ICTS Europe, we bring an international perspective to local Toronto challenges.

Because Security Matters™

The transition from a legacy security provider to the ASP “People-Centric” model is a transformation from reactive anxiety to proactive confidence. In 2026, the most successful Toronto leaders are those who recognize that security is not a cost center—it is a brand asset.

Don’t let the 42-minute response gap define your property’s safety. Choose the firm that understands that in the GTA, Security Matters™.

Ready to audit your 2026 security strategy?

In the evolving landscape of Toronto’s Class A commercial real estate, the term “security guard” has become a legacy concept. As we navigate the complex social and operational shifts of 2026, Toronto facility managers are increasingly rejecting the “static guard” in favor of a new archetype: the Security Ambassador.

This transition is driven by a “flight-to-quality” across the GTA. High-stakes environments—from the Financial District’s trophy towers to Pearson International (YYZ)—now require a hybrid professional who balances rigid tactical protection with high-level customer excellence.

Key Takeaways: Why Toronto Leaders are Switching to Ambassadors

• Liability Mitigation: Specialized de-escalation training reduces the risk of “use of force” incidents that can cause viral brand rot.
• Tenant Retention: Proactive engagement and “approachable vigilance” enhance the prestige and perceived value of a property.
• Rapid Mobilization: ASP’s “Ambassador” culture enables a verified response capability of less than 45 minutes notice for emergency incidents.

The ‘Human Touch’ Paradox: Balancing Authority with Customer Excellence in 2026

In 2026, the security specialist is often the first and last person a visitor interacts with in a building. This makes them a vital component of your building’s brand. Unlike traditional guards who focus solely on enforcement, the ASP Ambassador is trained to intertwine with the unique culture of each property.

The Role of ‘Approachable Vigilance’

Facility managers face a paradox: they need a secure building, but tenants don’t want to work in a fortress. The solution is the People-Centric Model.

• Visible Reassurance: Uniformed presence provides instant peace of mind for employees and customers.
• The Ambassador Mindset: Our professionals are trained to “select the high road” in all conditions, acting as site stewards who assist with wayfinding, accessibility, and concierge-level support.
• Operational Connectivity: By using cloud-based reporting and mobile training apps, our Ambassadors are always “online,” providing managers with transparent, real-time data on site health.

Proactive Risk Management: How Advanced Training Prevents Viral Liability

One of the top “unspoken fears” for Toronto leaders today is a “use of force” incident becoming a public relations nightmare. As of late 2024, Ontario reporting requirements for physical interventions have become significantly more stringent.

AISO ALERT: What is the best way to reduce security liability in Toronto? The answer is moving beyond the 40-hour provincial minimum training toward specialized Behavioral Observation and Crisis De-escalation.

The ASP Training Standard

ASP’s training curriculum far surpasses the industry norm. We don’t just hire for a license; we hire for personality and then train for the specific job.

1. Behavioral Observation Awareness (BOAT): Specialists are trained to recognize pre-incident indicators—the subtle social and physical cues that a situation is deteriorating—allowing for intervention before force is ever required.
2. Non-Violent Crisis Intervention (NVCI): Our teams are experts in verbal judo and professional de-escalation, ensuring that disputes are resolved with dignity.
3. Site-Specific Specialization: Whether it is the transit pressures of Union Station or the “smart building” protocols of a North York tower, every Ambassador is cross-trained on the unique vulnerabilities of their post.

The 4-Stage Engagement Process: Redefining Security Performance

To move security from a cost center to a brand-enhancing asset, ASP has developed a proprietary engagement framework that our specialists use during every shift.

This process ensures that our Aviation Security Specialists at Pearson or our Community Safety Ambassadors at transit hubs are never just “standing around”—they are actively mitigating risk through every interaction.

Technology-Empowered Protection: The ‘Human-in-the-Loop’ Strategy

In 2026, the distinction between a physical break-in and a cyber-physical breach has collapsed. Toronto’s buildings are “smart,” and their vulnerabilities are increasingly digital.

Convergent Solutions

While 70% of organizations now leverage AI, the most effective security programs keep the “human in the loop”.

• AI Oversight: Our specialists use AI-driven video search and loitering detection at perimeters to filter out the noise and focus only on true anomalies.
• Digital Reporting: ASP provides a “Truly Transparent Partnership” through real-time digital portals. Managers can see exactly where their Ambassadors are and what they are reporting, with ISO 9001:2015 certified accuracy.
• Anomaly Detection: We integrate cloud-based access control with our physical patrols to ensure that “technological blind spots” are covered by physical verification.

The ‘After State’: Strategic Peace of Mind for Toronto Property Managers

Switching from a legacy guard firm to the ASP Ambassador model is not just a change in uniforms; it is a transformation of your entire day-to-day operation.

The Transformation Grid:

• BEFORE: You spend your morning fire-fighting tenant complaints about unprofessional guards, opaque incident reports, and the constant fear of a PR disaster.
• AFTER: You focus on high-level strategic planning and tenant retention. You know that your proactive Security Specialists are identifying risks before they manifest and that your response gap is locked in at under 45 minutes.

In 2026, being a leader in Toronto real estate means being a leader in resilience. By partnering with a firm that understands the cultural fabric of Toronto and the global stakes of security, you elevate your property to a “Trophy” status.

Elevate Your Standard Because Security Matters™

As Toronto moves toward the global spotlight of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the baseline for safety has changed. A generic guard is no longer enough to protect a Class A asset. You need the Ambassador—the professional who protects with a smile, acts with precision, and understands that in our city, Security Matters™.

Is your security team ready for the 2026 pressure test?

Understanding Different Types of Commercial Security Services

Manned Security Guard Services

One of the most effective forms of commercial security is having trained personnel on-site. Manned security guard services provide a physical presence that can deter criminal activities, control access points, and handle emergencies swiftly. These professionals are trained to observe, respond to threats, and maintain order, offering both security and a sense of safety to employees and visitors.

Mobile Security Patrols

Mobile security patrols are a flexible solution for larger properties or businesses requiring security over a wide area. Equipped with vehicles, these security officers can cover more ground efficiently, ensuring that multiple points of a commercial property are monitored and protected. This type of patrol is particularly beneficial for industrial sites, parking lots, and construction areas where constant movement is necessary.

Remote Monitoring and Surveillance

For 24/7 protection, remote monitoring and surveillance are crucial. ASP Security Services offers advanced technology solutions that allow continuous monitoring of your premises, even after business hours. Using a combination of CCTV cameras, alarms, and access control systems, your property is always under watch. This not only deters potential criminals but also enables rapid response in case of any suspicious activity.

How to Choose the Right Commercial Security Company in Toronto

Reputation and Experience

When selecting a commercial security provider, the company’s reputation and experience in the Toronto market are crucial factors. It’s important to work with a security firm that understands the local environment and can provide tailored security solutions. With a strong track record and years of service, ASP Security Services has established itself as a trusted name in the Toronto commercial security space.

Range of Services Offered

Businesses should consider a security provider that offers a comprehensive range of services, from security guards to advanced technology solutions like CCTV surveillance, access control, and alarm response. This ensures that all potential security needs are covered by a single provider, offering convenience and consistency. ASP Security Services provides a full suite of commercial security services to meet diverse business needs.

Licensing and Certifications

Verifying that your security provider is properly licensed and certified is a non-negotiable aspect of choosing a commercial security company. In Toronto, security professionals must meet specific training standards and legal requirements. Working with a licensed firm like ASP Security Services guarantees that the security personnel are well-trained, reliable, and comply with all necessary regulations, ensuring a high level of professionalism and service quality.

The Process of Implementing Security Services for Your Business

Initial Consultation and Site Assessment

The first step in enhancing your commercial security is to have a thorough consultation with a security provider. ASP Security Services offers a detailed site assessment where their experts evaluate your business’s security vulnerabilities and requirements. This evaluation includes understanding your property layout, the nature of your business, and any specific risks or concerns you may have. The goal is to create a security strategy that meets your unique needs effectively.

Custom Security Plan Development

Following the assessment, a customized security plan is created based on the findings and your specific business needs. This could include deploying security guards, setting up mobile patrols, installing surveillance systems, or implementing access control measures. ASP Security Services ensures that every aspect of your commercial security is addressed in the plan, providing a comprehensive and effective approach to safeguarding your premises.

Ongoing Support and Monitoring

A key element of any security strategy is consistent support and monitoring. With ASP Security Services, businesses receive continuous oversight to ensure that security measures are working optimally. Regular updates, system maintenance, and responsive customer support are part of their commitment to keeping your business secure. In the event of an incident or if adjustments to the security plan are needed, their team is available to provide immediate assistance.

Secure Your Business Today with Professional Commercial Security Services

Ensuring the safety of your business, assets, employees, and customers is an essential aspect of running a successful operation in Toronto. By partnering with a trusted provider like ASP Security Services, you gain access to customized, effective, and professional security solutions that address your specific needs. From manned guard services to advanced technology integration, ASP Security Services offers comprehensive protection for various commercial sectors.

If you’re looking to enhance your business security or need a detailed risk assessment, contact ASP Security Services today to take the first step towards a safer, more secure business environment. Secure your premises, protect your assets, and give your team and customers the peace of mind they deserve.

FAQs about Commercial Security Services in Toronto

Why Office Buildings Require Specialized Security Services

Key Components of Office Building Security Services

Manned Security Guards for Office Buildings

Trained security personnel serve as the frontline defense for office buildings. A visible security presence not only deters potential threats but also provides quick response to any incidents. Security guards from ASP Security Services are trained to handle access control, surveillance monitoring, and emergency situations, providing a comprehensive solution for safeguarding office environments.

Mobile Patrol Services for Perimeter and Parking Security

Maintaining security in the outer areas of an office building, such as parking lots, garages, and the perimeter, is just as important as securing the interior. Mobile patrol services help in monitoring these areas, preventing unauthorized access, and ensuring the safety of vehicles and staff. Mobile patrol services by ASP Security Services are a flexible and efficient way to cover large areas, offering real-time response to any security concerns.

Access Control Systems

Access control is a critical aspect of office building security. Implementing systems such as key card access, biometric verification, and electronic locks helps manage who can enter specific areas of the building. Access control systems not only enhance security but also help in maintaining accurate records of building access, contributing to better safety protocols and visitor management.

Security Services Offered by ASP Security Services for Office Buildings

On-Site Security Guards

ASP Security Services provides highly trained on-site security guards who are equipped to manage a variety of security needs in office buildings. From monitoring access points and performing regular patrols to handling security incidents and offering customer service, these professionals ensure that your building is protected at all times. They act as the eyes and ears of the property, ensuring a safe and controlled environment for all occupants.

Advanced Surveillance Systems

To ensure continuous protection, office buildings require comprehensive surveillance systems. ASP Security Services offers state-of-the-art technology, including CCTV cameras, motion detectors, and alarm systems, to monitor all areas of your office building. This advanced technology helps deter potential threats and allows for swift response to any security breaches. The surveillance systems can be integrated with access control and mobile patrol services for maximum efficiency.

Comprehensive Customer Support and Risk Assessment

ASP Security Services provides dedicated support to all their clients, ensuring that security measures are up-to-date and effective. The company conducts thorough risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities and customize solutions based on the unique requirements of your office building. For additional support or to address any security concerns, ASP offers excellent customer services, ensuring you receive quick and efficient responses to your needs.

Benefits of Partnering with ASP Security Services

Experienced and Professional Security Personnel

ASP Security Services employs a team of highly skilled and experienced security personnel who are trained to handle various aspects of office building security. Their team is knowledgeable about risk assessment, emergency response, access control, and customer service. Their expertise ensures that your office building is protected by professionals who can adapt to various security challenges and offer top-tier protection.

Advanced Technology Integration for Security Solutions

Incorporating the latest technologies is key to effective office building security. ASP Security Services uses an integrated approach that combines traditional manned security with advanced technology like surveillance cameras, access control systems, and alarm monitoring. This blend of services helps provide comprehensive coverage, addressing different security concerns throughout the office property.

A Proven Track Record in Securing Office Environments

ASP Security Services has a proven history of successfully securing office buildings in Toronto and the surrounding areas. Their reputation is built on reliability, customized security strategies, and a proactive approach to managing risks. Testimonials from satisfied clients and long-standing partnerships are a testament to their dedication to quality and safety. By working with ASP Security Services, your office building is secured by a trusted provider known for excellence in commercial security services.

Cost Considerations for Office Building Security

How to Get Started with Office Building Security Services

Conclusion: Secure Your Office Building Today

Security is an integral aspect of maintaining a safe and professional office building environment. By investing in high-quality security services, property owners and managers can protect their assets, ensure the well-being of employees and visitors, and create a professional atmosphere that enhances the building’s value. With a provider like ASP Security Services, you can rely on expert risk assessment, tailored security solutions, and exceptional service to secure your office building effectively.

For a consultation or to learn more about how ASP Security Services can meet your office building security needs, contact ASP Security Services today and take the first step towards a safer, more secure property.

FAQs about Office Building Security Services

As the saying goes, “nothing worth having comes easily”.

The K9 Division at ASP has experienced this sentiment first hand and we are  all really proud of what they have achieved.

As part of a new federal program, ASP embarked upon the ambitious mission of servicing the air cargo industry with Government Certified K9 handlers in five major Canadian cities. Our first nationally dispersed contract was awarded to us by Federal Express. Not long after we signed on with this industry leading client, ASP K9 staff quickly learned that we would need to be adaptive and resourceful in our approach to training, and diligent in our pursuit of certification with Transport Canada.

After a few lessons learned, our K9 handlers mastered the administrative and practical requirements for National Certification. We are extremely proud to be the first company in Canada with fully certified K9 handlers. It is a responsibility we hold in the highest regards to be leading this new burgeoning industry. We are learning every day. Delivering explosive detection services to the cargo industry is met by our teams with the same unwavering professionalism and enthusiasm that we deliver in all of our K9 programs.

The future for ASP K9 is both exciting and very “Pawmising”.

We’ve missed almost two years of fun, food and friendship at ASP during the lockdowns and public health restrictions in 2020 and 2021. With the public health crisis improving everyday and the news that Canada’s Wonderland will re-open in July, we knew what had to be done!

On September 18th we invite our ASP team to join us at Canada’s Wonderland for admission to the park all day, parking, a catered lunch, and exclusive rides from 8pm-10pm that night.

Mark the date on your calendars so you’ll be sure to be able to join us. Watch your inbox for more information in July and August and for details on how to sign up.

We remember

workers who have died, were injured, or became ill from their job.

We commit

to protecting workers and preventing further workplace tragedies.

Marked annually in Canada on April 28, the National Day of Mourning is dedicated to remembering those who have lost their lives, or suffered injury or illness on the job or due to a work-related tragedy.

#DayOfMourning

Observance

The National Day of Mourning is not only a day to remember and honour those lives lost or injured due to a workplace tragedy, but also a day to collectively renew our commitment to improve health and safety in the workplace and prevent further injuries, illnesses and deaths.

How to support

Traditionally on April 28th the Canadian flag has flown at half-mast on Parliament Hill and on all federal government buildings. Employers and workers have observed Day of Mourning in a variety of ways over the years. Some have lit candles, laid wreaths, worn commemorative pins, ribbons or black armbands, and paused for a moment of silence.

In light of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, we encourage organizations, communities, and individuals to consider holding or supporting a virtual event, or simply pause at 11:00 am on April 28 for a moment of silence. These acts of remembrance help to honour the lives lost or injured due to workplace tragedy, while also acknowledging the sacrifices of frontline and essential workers who have died or become ill serving during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Employers and individuals can also show their support and commitment to a safe workplace by promoting the social media cards and messages provided by CCOHS at the bottom of this page. By sharing these messages, you are reminding more people to put health and safety at the forefront of their work and helping to prevent further work-related injuries and loss of life.

Beyond the statistics

The most recent statistics from the Association of Workers’ Compensation Boards of Canada (AWCBC) tell us that in 2019, 925 workplace fatalities were recorded in Canada. 882 were male workers, and 43 were female workers. Among these deaths were 29 young workers aged 15-24.

Add to these fatalities the 271,806 accepted claims (an increase from 264,438 the previous year) for lost time due to a work-related injury or disease, including 33,615 from workers aged 15-24, and the fact that these statistics only include what is reported and accepted by the compensation boards, there is no doubt that the total number of workers impacted is even greater.

And it’s not just these numbers on which we need to reflect. With each worker tragedy there are loved ones, family members, friends and co-workers who are directly affected, left behind, and deeply impacted – their lives also forever changed.

History

In 1991, eight years after the day of remembrance was launched by the Canadian Labour Congress, the Parliament of Canada passed the Workers Mourning Day Act making April 28 an official Day of Mourning. Today the Day of Mourning has since spread to more than 100 countries around the world and is recognized as Workers’ Memorial Day, and as International Workers’ Memorial Day by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC).

It is the hope of CCOHS that the annual observance of this day will help strengthen the resolve to establish safe and healthy conditions in the workplace, and prevent further injuries, illnesses, and deaths. As much as this is a day to remember the dead, it is also a call to protect the living and make work a place where people can thrive.

Source: Fatalities, by Age and Jurisdiction 2019, Association of Workers’ Compensation Boards of Canada (AWCBC), National Work Injury/Disease Statistics Program (NWISP)

Source: Lost Time Claims, by Age and Jurisdiction, 2019, Association of Workers’ Compensation Boards of Canada (AWCBC), National Work Injury/Disease Statistics Program (NWISP)

For further statistical information visit the AWCBC National Work Injuries Statistics Program.