The Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) celebrated outstanding public safety leadership at its 2026 Safety Awards, honouring the achievements of the Ontario Recreation Facilities Association (ORFA) and maintenance supervisor, Matthew Monteith during its Annual Public Meeting on September 17, 2026.
Bonnie Rose, President and CEO of TSSA, says the annual Safety Awards are an important way to celebrate safety best practices across industries in Ontario. “Safety is a shared responsibility. It gives me great pleasure to recognize individuals and organizations whose dedication to safety has made a meaningful difference,” says Rose. “Through their leadership, innovation, and commitment to protecting others, they have helped enhance safety for everyone.”
Each year, TSSA receives nominations that recognize individuals and organizations in TSSA-regulated sectors that have made significant contributions to public safety in Ontario:
- Impact Award: For significant contributions, initiatives, or projects that demonstrate safety excellence or exceed regulatory compliance.
- Legacy Award: For sustained safety conscientiousness shown by individuals or organizations.
Impact Safety Award 2026 Recipient: Matthew Monteith
Matthew Monteith, Maintenance Supervisor with Cascades’ packaging and container manufacturing plant in St. Mary’s, Ontario, received the Impact Award for his outstanding leadership in advancing boiler safety and regulatory compliance at the facility.
Following a TSSA inspection identifying a low-water cut-off system that did not operate as intended by the original equipment manufacturer, Matthew engaged specialists to conduct equipment audits and identify improvement opportunities to strengthen the site's overall boiler program. He also established two dedicated boiler technician positions and arranged specialized training to ensure staff have the knowledge and skills required to operate and maintain the boilers safely.
Kim Semper, TSSA’s Director of Boilers and Pressure Vessels and Operating Engineers Safety Program, says this reflects the values the Impact award is intended to recognize. “Matthew's efforts have had a measurable impact on both safety and operations and exemplify what it means to go beyond compliance. His proactive approach to identifying and addressing risks, investing in staff development, and strengthening operational practices makes a lasting impact on the people and systems he supports every day."
Watch a video of Matthew or read his story here.
Legacy Safety Award 2026 Recipient: Ontario Recreation Facilities Association
The Ontario Recreation Facilities Association (ORFA) was honoured with the Legacy Award for championing safety across Ontario’s recreation facilities through industry-leading certification programs, training and advocacy.
Since its establishment in 1947 ─ then as the Ontario Arenas Association ─ ORFA has developed professional certification programs that equip industry personnel with the skills and competencies needed to perform their roles effectively. Many industry professionals have earned ORFA certifications, which are recognized and valued by employers across the sector.
ORFA's impact extends beyond certification programs. As a leading advocate for the safe operation and maintenance of unattended registered industrial refrigeration plants, which often do not require certified operators, ORFA promotes training and competency standards for those who operate and manage refrigerated ice surfaces.
“ORFA’s commitment to training and professional excellence has empowered thousands of recreation facility professionals throughout Ontario,” says Sue Hadley, TSSA’s Chief Officer of Operating Engineers Safety Program. "The Legacy Award recognizes organizations whose contributions have stood the test of time, and ORFA is a remarkable example of an organization that has helped generations of professionals develop the skills and knowledge needed to keep facilities safe for workers and communities alike.”
Watch a video of ORFA or read its story here.
About TSSA
The Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) is one of Ontario’s public safety regulators mandated by the Government of Ontario to enforce provincial safety regulations and enhance public safety. Throughout Ontario, TSSA regulates the safety of amusement devices, boilers and pressure vessels, elevating devices, fuels, operating engineers, and ski lifts. Its range of safety services include public education and consumer information, certification, licensing and registration, engineering design review, inspections, investigations, safety management consultation, compliance support and enforcement and prosecution activities. The organization’s vision is to be a valued advocate and recognized authority in public safety.
For more information, please contact:
Alexandra Campbell
Vice President, Communications and Stakeholder Relations
Technical Standards and Safety Authority
Telephone: 416-734-6227
Email: media@tssa.org