Peterborough County Takes a Stand Against Aggressive Behavior Towards Construction Workers

As the 2024 construction season approaches its end, Peterborough County is committed to ensuring a safe and respectful environment for all construction workers announced on Thursday.

File Photo.

The County reminds motorists, residents, and visitors that any form of aggressive behavior—including yelling, insults, threats, intimidation, or physical abuse—directed at County staff or contractors will not be tolerated.

“As the CAO for Peterborough County, any violence or harassment of our workers or our contractors will not be tolerated”, said Sheridan Graham, Peterborough County CAO. “Our staff are professionals, who are proud of the work they do in their communities. Construction and delays can be stressful, we understand that, but they are a necessary part of maintaining our critical infrastructure. Our communications department does an amazing job of updating on projects and delays, and we also use Municipal 511 services – please follow us on these channels to get more information and to plan your travel.”

“Harassment of Construction Workers is becoming a serious problem. It stems from impatience, self-importance, and putting the safety and well-being of our vital construction crews second to experiencing a minor disruption in travel,” said Bryan Weir, Peterborough County senior director of planning and public works. “Without the important work that is done, there would be no infrastructure to travel upon, no clean water or sanitary conditions, no sidewalks, and unbearable ongoing inconveniences to daily living. Respecting a workplace is a right that everyone is entitled to.”

Construction workers play a vital role in our community by contributing to essential infrastructure and development projects that benefit everyone as stated by the County. They continue to state that workes frequently encounter unwarranted hostility while on the job. This aggressive behaviour disrupts their work, can lead to significant delays in project completion, and, if warranted, may require police involvement.

”As Acting Staff Sergeant of the Peterborough County OPP, I want to make it clear: we have zero tolerance for any threats or violence against construction workers at road closures,” said Angie Kerr, OPP acting staff sergeant. '“These closures are necessary to maintain our community’s infrastructure. While we understand the frustration, we will not tolerate aggression toward workers. In past incidents, workers have faced hostility from motorists, and anyone engaging in such behavior could face charges like Uttering Threats, Assault, or Mischief, with penalties under the Criminal Code of Canada ranging from fines to imprisonment. Protecting our workers and the public is our priority.”

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