By Laurel Woodhouse, Health & Safety Manager

Our teams work every day across airports, UPS and FedEx facilities, Toronto respite sites, Rogers event venues, and residential buildings — every one of these sites depends on our people staying alert, protected, and supported. Over the last quarter, we’ve noticed a significant drop in hazard reports being submitted across our sites. This isn’t because hazards have disappeared — it likely means fewer of them are being reported. This article explains what a hazard is, why reporting matters, and how easy it is to report one, so we can turn this trend around together.

What is a Hazard?

A hazard is anything in your work environment with the potential to cause harm — to you, a coworker, a client, or the public. Hazards aren’t always dramatic or obvious. Some examples our teams regularly encounter include:

  • Slip, trip, and fall risks — wet floors, uneven pavement, poor lighting, snow/ice buildup, or cluttered walkways
  • Damaged or malfunctioning equipment — broken locks, faulty radios, non-working cameras, damaged barriers or gates
  • Unsafe access points — propped-open doors, broken door closers, malfunctioning card readers
  • Aggressive, threatening, or unpredictable behaviour from individuals on site
  • Environmental hazards — extreme heat/cold exposure, poor ventilation, exposed wiring
  • Vehicle and traffic hazards — blind corners, poor sightlines, unsafe loading dock activity
  • Near misses — situations where an incident almost happened but didn’t

If something makes you pause and think “that doesn’t seem right,” it’s worth reporting. You never need to be 100% certain something is dangerous to report it — that’s what the review process is for.

Why Reporting Hazards Matters

Every hazard report is a chance to prevent an injury before it happens. When reporting drops off, it doesn’t mean our sites have become safer — it usually means risks are going unnoticed or unaddressed until something goes wrong. Reporting hazards allows us to:

  • Identify risks early, before they lead to an injury or incident
  • Give supervisors and Operations the information they need to put controls in place
  • Track recurring issues at a site so patterns can be fixed at the root cause, not just patched
  • Build a stronger safety culture where every employee has a voice in protecting the team
  • Meet our health and safety obligations and keep our client sites compliant

Reporting a hazard is never “extra work” or “making a fuss.” It’s one of the most valuable things you can do for yourself and your coworkers.

A Two-Way Commitment: Report and React

Improving safety is a shared responsibility, and it works in both directions:

  • Employees report hazards as soon as they’re noticed — no hazard is too small to flag.
  • Supervisors and Managers respond to every report, assess the risk, and identify controls to reduce or eliminate it — whether that’s a quick fix, a temporary safeguard, or escalation for a longer-term solution.

How to Report a Hazard — Two Easy Options

Option 1 — Scan the QR Code on Mitti (SafetyCulture)

Reporting without follow-up doesn’t fix anything — and follow-up can’t happen if hazards are never reported in the first place. Both halves of this cycle have to work for our sites to actually get safer. Supervisors: please make it a priority to acknowledge reports promptly and follow up with your team on what action was taken. Employees seeing hazards addressed is what builds trust in the process and keeps people reporting.

Scanning it opens a quick hazard report form that sends a direct, real-time notification straight to the Operations team.

Fastest way to get eyes on a hazard — no phone call or email needed.

Option 2 — Tell Your Supervisor or Manager

Prefer to report in person or don’t have access to a device in the moment? Speak directly with your on-site Supervisor or Manager. They can log the hazard and start the response process right away.

Best when you need to explain something in detail or want it addressed immediately.

Our Goal this Quarter

We want to see hazard reporting go back up — not because our sites have gotten less safe, but because our team is more engaged in keeping them safe. Every report matters, no matter how small it may seem. If you see it, report it. If you’re a supervisor, act on it and close the loop with your team.

Thank you for everything you do to keep our sites, clients, and each other safe.


By Laurel Woodhouse, H&S Manager and Vince Gemmiti, Training Manager, RES/CIC

Working in public-facing security roles means you’ll encounter a wide range of behaviours— from confused or upset members of the public to aggressive or unpredictable individuals. Keeping yourself, your colleagues, the public, and clients safe starts with prevention, calm communication, and knowing when to escalate. Use the guidance below during every shift.

Key Principles

  • Stay aware: scan your area for potential issues (crowds, alcohol/narcotic use, obstructions) and position yourself to maintain visibility and a safe exit.
  • Stay calm and professional: your tone, posture, and language set the tone of the interaction.
  • Prioritize safety over being right: de-escalation and containment are primary goals; enforcement and confrontation are secondary.
  • Communicate and document: notify supervisors/ dispatch early if concerns arise and record the incident afterward.

Verbal Judo — Practical Tips

Use the 3-step approach: Ask, Set Options, Confirm

  1. Ask — politely request cooperation (“Sir, could you step back from the platform edge, please?”).
  2. Set Options — present clear, limited choices that are acceptable to you (“You can wait behind the line, or I can call assistance.”).
  3. Confirm — close the interaction and document the outcome (“Thank you for moving back. I’ll stay nearby until the train arrives.”).
    • Use calm, directive language: short sentences, low/ moderate tone, non-accusatory words.
    • Name the behavior, not the person: “I cannot allow this bag on the seat” rather than “You’re being reckless.”
    • Use empathy statements: “I can see you’re upset. I want to help. Let’s do this together.”
    • Avoid arguing, sarcasm, or raising your voice.

Safe Distance & Positioning

  • Maintain a non-threatening distance: usually 1.5–3 meters (6–12 ft) depending on the person’s behavior and environment.
  • Keep an unobstructed path to an exit; position yourself at a slight angle rather than directly face-to-face.
  • Use environmental barriers when appropriate (desk, counter, open doors) to preserve space.
  • If a subject becomes agitated, increase distance and create space for escape—not to retreat from duty, but to reduce risk.
  • Be prepared to reposition, away from or within the situation depending on your assessment.

When to Call Police or Additional Support

  • Immediate threat to life, weapons present, or violent assault.
  • Subject displays clear intent to harm self or others.
  • Crime is in progress and requires law enforcement (theft in progress, forced entry).
  • You cannot safely control the situation or the subject becomes physically aggressive.
  • Persistent refusal to follow lawful safety directives that create imminent risk (e.g., refusing to leave a secure area).
  • If in doubt and risk is increasing, call dispatch for advice and backup.

Scenario + Do / Don’t Checklist

Scenario: Late evening on a transit platform, an irate passenger shouts at staff after being denied access to a restricted area. He paces aggressively and throws a small item toward the platform edge.

Do:
  • Keep a safe distance and signal backup immediately
  • Use a calm, firm voice: “Sir, please step back. I’m calling for assistance.”
  • Offer limited options: “You may wait behind the line or move to the seating area.”
  • Use a neutral stance and maintain clear sightlines.
  • Document the incident and report to your supervisor and dispatch.
  • Use the relational approach by asking them what you can do to help: “I can see you are struggling…” or “I want to help you, talk to me.”
  • Use active listening to understand what the problem may be to assist them in finding a solution.
  • Collaborate with them, give them the power to solve their crisis rather than imposing one upon them.
Don’t:
  • Approach directly or block his/her exit path.
  • Match aggression—do not shout or use insults.
  • Engage in prolonged argument or try to physically restrain unless trained and necessary.
  • Leave the area without notifying dispatch or a colleague.

Quick Reminders

  • Report all interactions that escalated or made you feel unsafe, even if no injury occurred.
  • Refresh de-escalation training every year and participate in scenario drills.
  • Keep radio/phone charged and accessible; know sitespecific escalation numbers.

By Laurel Woodhouse, H&S Manager

At ASP Security, our top priority is ensuring the health and safety of every employee. We are committed to creating a supportive and proactive safety culture.

Here is how we are working towards this goal:

Commitment to Safety

  • We believe in empowering employees to report any safety issues or hazards through ASP’s Safety Management System Software – Safety Culture.
  • Every team member plays a crucial role in keeping our workplace safe by reporting hazards and staying involved with the Health and Safety Committee.

Safety Initiatives

  • Training and Development: All employees receive training on important safety topics in onboarding, annually, and as things change in our ever evolving roles.
  • Open Communication: We encourage everyone to speak up about any concerns or challenges.

Tools and Technologies

  • We utilize advanced tools to ensure our employees can work in a safe environment. ASP will be adding Weather Sensors, a Drive Safe Program, Document Resource Library and real-time communication tools.

Continuous Improvement

  • We’re always looking for ways to enhance our safety practices by better lines of communication to frontline employees and improving investigation process of hazards and near misses.
  • Regular feedback and innovative solutions are key to our success.

Support and Appreciation

  • ASP recognizes and values each team member’s contribution to our safety program.
  • We strive to make ASP a welcoming place for everyone.

Our Mission: At ASP, we are driven by excellence and dedicated to maintaining a safe and healthy workplace. Together, we make ASP a great place to work, where safety is everyone’s responsibility.

Last year you told us through our annual safety perception survey that 88% of employees felt safe working at ASP Security. Let’s move that needle closer to 100% this year.

Thank you for being a valued member of our team and for your commitment to safety. Let’s continue working together to create an outstanding work environment for all!


By Laurel Woodhouse, H&S Manager

How the flu spreads: The flu is an infection of the nose, throat, and lungs. It spreads very easily from person to person. Someone who has the flu can spread the virus to others even before they notice any symptoms..

You can get the flu if:

  • You breathe in the infectious particles
  • The infectious particles or secretions (like saliva or mucus) come into direct contact with your eyes, nose or mouth — for example, when someone with the flu coughs or sneezes on you
  • You touch your eyes, nose or mouth with unclean hands after you’ve touched infectious particles or secretions on:
    • A contaminated surface or object
    • Another person (for example, through a handshake)
Flu Season Reminder

Controls

Personal protective measures – In addition to getting the flu vaccine, you can reduce your risk of getting or spreading the flu by:

  • Staying home when you’re sick
  • Wearing a well-fitting respirator or mask
    • Wearing a mask is recommended if you have symptoms and must: be around others, entering a public setting or seeking medical care
  • Opening windows and doors when possible to improve indoor air ventilation
  • Washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
    • If unavailable, use a hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol and rub your hands together for 20 seconds or until dry
  • Coughing and sneezing into a tissue or your elbow instead of your hand
  • Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unclean hands
  • Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces and objects regularly that are often touched by others
  • The flu vaccine (flu shot) is the best way to prevent the flu. Most people don’t have any side effects. Severe reactions are very rare.
  • You can’t get the flu from the flu vaccine.
Controls

By Neeru Panjwani, Director of Human Resources

A t ASP, we officially recognize two languages for all internal communications—English and French. This dual-language policy is in place to ensure clarity, mutual understanding, and efficient operation across all levels of the business. Using a common language like English also reinforces equal opportunities, allowing every employee to engage, contribute, and grow.

Why Language Matters at Work

A shared language in the workplace plays a vital role in facilitating effective communication, collaboration, and productivity. Beyond its practical benefits, it also nurtures a sense of belonging, respect, and professionalism.

ASP is proud to be a multicultural organization—a vibrant tapestry woven from the diverse backgrounds, languages, and traditions of our employees. Our differences are a source of strength, and this cultural richness adds to the company’s unique identity.

The Natural Pull of Our Mother Tongue

It’s only natural to revert to our native language when speaking with colleagues who share our background. It offers comfort and ease, especially for those still developing fluency in English or French. After all, constantly translating our thoughts and monitoring grammar can be mentally exhausting.

Yet, this practice—while comforting to some— can unintentionally exclude others and lead to misunderstandings. One common assumption when we overhear conversations in a language we don’t understand is, “Are they talking about me?” While often unfounded, such perceptions can create discomfort and affect team cohesion.

Courtesy, Clarity, and Inclusion

The challenge is not about suppressing our identities but about ensuring our communication doesn’t exclude others. Respect, awareness, and empathy go a long way in making everyone feel welcome and valued.

ASP encourages everyone to adopt inclusive communication practices—not just during formal work tasks, but also during informal interactions. Here are a few practical suggestions to guide us:

Inclusive Language Guidelines

  1. Use English (or French, where applicable) during operational and safety communications. English should be the primary language during business hours to maintain clear and consistent understanding.
  2. During personal break time, be mindful of your surroundings. If others nearby don’t understand your language, consider switching to English to ensure inclusivity.
  3. Always maintain respectful communication. If you feel excluded or uncomfortable, initiate a respectful and open conversation about how language use is affecting you or others.

In Closing

Language is more than just words—it’s connection, identity, and inclusion. At ASP, we celebrate our differences, but we also strive to foster an environment where everyone feels heard and respected. By making thoughtful choices in how we communicate, we build a stronger, more united workplace for all. Let’s keep talking—together.


By Laurel Woodhouse, H&S Manager

Thank you to everyone who participated in the 2025 survey! Your voice and input are important as we work together to ensure a safe work environment for everyone.

I am very proud of the 2025 results, and you should be too! Since 2022, we have moved from 78% of us selecting most or all of the time to the survey questions to 88%. This tells me that you are prioritizing health and safety. Let’s continue this trend so we can see additional gains in 2026.

Interpret your scoreChecking your score below along with the suggestions for next steps. The levels in the visual above will guide you in interpreting your final score on a 0-4 scale.
Level 1Final score is less than 2. Your work in health & safety needs attention and improvement. Contact H&S team for guidance on developing an action plan.
Level 2Final score is equal to or greater than 2 but less than 3. Specific health and safety practices at your site need some improvement. The lower scored items should be a focus area for you. Review your practices and consult with H&S team for guidance in developing an action plan.
Level 3Final score is equal to or greater than 3 but less than 4. You are performing well overall. The lower scored items should be a focus area for you. Continue to strive for excellence with continuous collaboration work.
Level 4Final score is 4. A score of 4 indicates that your safety culture is currently functioning at an optimal level. This is the result of continuous, collaborative work. Well done – keep doing what you are doing.

The table below shows a detailed report of your Safety Assessment Survey results. The percentage column indicates the percentage of employees who chose “Most or all of the time” as their answer.

20252022
At my site, employees work safely even when the manager or supervisor is not around?9687
At my site, incident investigations are focused on fixing the problem, not laying blame8980
At my site, safety is as important as the clients’ needs?9386
At my site, do all employees have the information needed to work safely?9384
At my site, the ASP employees responsible for safety (managers and supervisors) have the authority to make changes they deem necessary?7677
At my site, ASP employees are recognized for working safely?8475
At my site, do all ASP employees have the tools/equipment to work safely?8977
At my site, ASP management is visibly/ actively involved in the safety?8571
At my site, communication is open, and ASP employees are encouraged to voice concerns and make suggestions?8672
At my site, there is a trained first aid attendant available at all times?7956
At my site, ASP employees are encouraged to report near misses (close calls) and hazards?9281
At my site, ASP management applies the same safety rules to everyone?9486
Average score88%78%

By Laurel Woodhouse, H&S Manager

The cold temperatures and icy conditions that are often a part of Canadian winters can cause hazards at the workplace.

  • Cold stress—Exposure to the cold can lead to frostbite and hypothermia. Hypothermia—The body can no longer maintain its core temperature, causing persistent shivering, confusion, and poor coordination.
  • Frostbite—Parts of the body are exposed to extremely cold temperatures or come into contact with cold objects, causing the tissues to freeze.
  • Slips and falls—Ice, snow, slush, wet surfaces, and mud (during a thaw) can cause slips and falls. A slip on the ground can cost you weeks off work. A slip at height can cost you your life.
  • Carbon monoxide (CO)—CO is a clear, colourless gas that you can’t smell or taste.

It interferes with your body’s ability to use oxygen. Even in small doses, it can kill you.

Controls

Wear several thin layers of clothing instead of one thick layer.

  • Wear gloves, as well as a hat or other head covering that can fit under a hard hat.
  • Wear one pair of thick socks or two pairs of thin socks.
  • If you get hot when you’re working, open your jacket but keep your hat and gloves on.

To prevent slips and falls:

  • Clean the ice and snow off the soles of your boots and from access areas and work platforms.
  • Use sand, salt, or other de-icing material. (Ice often forms on the underside of platform materials, so don’t just turn them over.)
  • When working at height, be extra careful in the morning since there may be new frost and snow.
  • Watch your footing. Platforms may be clear in sunny areas but icy in the shade.
  • When walking, have at least one hand free to help keep your balance and cushion a fall.

To prevent exposure to CO gas:

  • When heating an enclosed space, use an indirect-fired heater.
  • Check propane vehicle-cab heaters for leaks and proper venting.
  • Operate engines outdoors when possible.
  • When engines must be operated indoors, take the following precautions: Choose electric rather than fuel-powered equipment; make sure the area is well ventilated; keep doors and windows open and use fans to bring in fresh air; monitor CO levels regularly with a gas detector.


By Laurel Woodhouse, H&S Manager

ASP Security is excited to announce that we recently deployed SafetyCulture, industry leading software designed to enhance the reporting of health and safety incidents as well as concerns related to the workplace. This innovative tool will streamline our processes and promote a safer work environment for all employees.

As part of our commitment to health and safety, supervisors are now required to report any work-related injuries or illnesses through the SafetyCulture platform. This proactive approach ensures that we capture and track health and safety concerns so they can be addressed promptly.

You may notice emails with the subject line “SafetyCulture” in your inbox. These communications will provide updates and information regarding your health and safety at work, so please keep an eye out for these important messages.

By utilizing this platform, ASP Security aims to equip employees with the necessary knowledge, tools, and processes to work safely and uphold high standards.

Looking ahead, we plan to expand the SafetyCulture tool to allow for direct reporting of workplace violence, harassment, bullying, sexual harassment, or discrimination to Human Resources. Our goal is to implement this feature before the end of 2025, further enhancing our commitment to a safe and respectful workplace.

Together, let’s work towards a safer and healthier work environment!


By Dean Lovric, President and CEO

A few months ago, after much reflection, careful consideration and management of a multitude of emotions, I announced my decision to step down as CEO of ASP Security Services, bringing an extraordinary 25-year journey with the company I founded in 2000 to a close. It has truly been an incredible honor to lead this company from its early days into the respected nation-wide organization it is today, and I’m filled with gratitude for all that we’ve accomplished together, the high road we chose to walk on and especially those I have met along the way.

From the inception of ASP, I had a vision of creating a company that was not only successful but also impactful in the lives of those who I would work alongside with. I wanted to build something that could make a difference, not just in the industry, but in the lives of our employees, customers, and communities. Together, we achieved that vision, and the sense of pride I feel looking back on all we’ve built is immeasurable.

From day one, I’ve been fortunate to work alongside some of the most talented, dedicated, and passionate people I’ve ever known. The journey has been full of both challenges and triumphs, and it’s been through the unwavering support and collaboration of our team that we’ve been able to achieve the success we see today. I’m incredibly proud of the company we’ve created and the impact we’ve made—whether through groundbreaking innovations, strategic partnerships, or the contributions we’ve made to our community.

As I step away, I’m confident that the company is in great hands. With Humberto Pimentel at the helm and support from Garinder, Brad, Neeru, Paul, Sean, Sarah, home base (ICTS) and many others, I don’t have the space to mention here, who are all exceptional leaders, I have no doubt that under their guidance, ASP will continue to thrive and grow in new and exciting directions. Leverage their intrinsic knowledge of our business and history, you can trust they have your best interests at heart. This is not a goodbye to the company I built, but rather a new “ beginning. Though I will no longer be involved in the dayto-day operations, I will always be a part of the ASP/ICTS family and will continue to support its journey in whatever way I can.

For me, this is a time of reflection and renewal. Although I look forward to exploring many new personal and professional opportunities, I will always hold a deep fondness for the incredible people and experiences that have shaped my time at ASP. I am deeply grateful to our employees, customers, partners, and everyone who has been part of this journey. I leave here with the knowledge that many of you I will see again and continue some of the strong relationships we have built over the years which have been cemented in trust and respect.

Thank you so very much for your support over the years and for helping me turn my vision into reality. The next chapter for both me and ASP indicates very bright new beginnings, and I am excited to see where they lead and what new adventures shall cross our paths. Wishing you all good health, happiness and lots of prosperity.

With immense gratitude, appreciation and humility, I bid you farewell,

Dean Lovric
Founder & Former President & CEO, ASP Security Services


By Humberto Pimentel, President and CEO

As we quickly approach the halfway mark of the year, I’d like to take a moment to reflect on some of the key changes and accomplishments we’ve achieved at ASP Security Inc.

First and foremost, we bid a fond farewell to Dean Lovric, our founder and CEO at ASP Security, who has officially retired. Dean’s leadership, vision, and warm personality have left a lasting legacy, and he will be greatly missed by all of us.

April marked the successful implementation of the Planete Scheduling system—a major milestone for our organization. This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication of our Resource Planning team, led by Manager Andrew Catney. Their hard work, adaptability, and commitment were instrumental in delivering this rollout. Of course, there were challenges along the way, but thanks to the support of our IT Project Manager, Noah Thompson, we were able to stay on track and meet our critical timelines.

Looking ahead, I’m excited to share that the company has submitted bids for several new contracts, both within the Greater Toronto Area and in regions beyond. These efforts are in direct alignment with our strategic goal of expanding our national footprint over the next five years. Achieving this vision will require the collective efforts and support of our entire management team, and I’m confident we are up to the task.

Thank you all for your continued dedication, resilience, and contributions to our shared success.