SAFE Work Certified is a health and safety certification standard designed to help make MB workplaces safer and provide a financial reward to employers that take proactive steps to prevent workplace injuries and illnesses.

North Forge accomplished the goal of becoming SAFE Work Certified by Made Safe MB in June of 2019. During the last 3 years, we focused on continuous improvement of our safety program. At the beginning of 2020, North Forge, in partnership with Bit Space Development, developed a VR Safety Learning Experience. Created to bring attention to critical areas and the equipment that is considered high risk within the Fabrication Lab, this remote training method was developed to help members understand and demonstrate Safe Work Procedures; stay current with safety improvements; understand and follow personal protective equipment guidelines; identify specific machine hazards and control methods, and to understand the FabLab member responsibilities. 

“We place a high degree of emphasis on culture within the community and having our safety program at the Fabrication Lab be member/community driven. North Forge has an active and driven volunteer safety committee and a volunteer member base to drive the safety program forward.” Marney Stapley, VP of North Forge said. 

“The biggest benefit for North Forge having our Safety Certification is that businesses, universities and colleges can have the peace of mind knowing that they are sending their employees and students into a safe environment,” Stapley added. 

The membership with Made Safe has allowed us to connect with Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters and their Women in Manufacturing initiative. We’ve also been able to partner with the Workers Compensation Board and their Research & Workplace Innovation Program. We’re truly stronger when we work together.