The Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) celebrated outstanding public safety leadership at its 2025 Safety Awards.
The achievements of Jamie Kovacs and the Canadian Elevator Industry Educational Program (CEIEP) were honored during its Annual Public Meeting on 25 September.
The annual TSSA Safety Awards, a nomination-based program, recognizes individuals and organizations in TSSA-regulated sectors that have made significant contributions to public safety in Ontario.
By shining a light on these efforts, TSSA celebrates and aims to inspire exceptional commitment to safety standards and practices across the province.
Bonnie Rose, President and CEO of TSSA explained: “Safety is a shared responsibility and it’s essential to recognize the dedication of those who go above and beyond to enhance safety in our regulated sectors.
“I warmly congratulate this year’s winners, Jamie Kovacs and Canadian Elevator Industry Educational Program, for their leadership and for serving as powerful examples of how innovation and diligence can drive meaningful progress in safety practices.”
Each year, nominations are accepted in two award categories: the Impact Award, for significant contributions, initiatives or projects that demonstrate safety excellence or exceed regulatory compliance; and the Legacy Award, for sustained safety conscientiousness shown by individuals or organizations.
Jamie Kovacs, Executive Director of the Fire Marshal’s Public Fire Safety Council, received the Impact Award for his dedication to advancing fire safety and prevention.
Partnering with fire departments across Ontario, Jamie leads a team that helps make fire safety and prevention a community priority.
As a volunteer firefighter with Central Elgin Fire Rescue since 2018, Jamie responds to more than 100 fire and carbon monoxide calls each year, living out his commitment to protecting others well beyond his professional role.
He also works diligently with the Central Elgin communities to promote fire safety messages and educate the public on the importance of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
Owen Kennedy, Director of Fuels Safety Program with TSSA shared: “Jamie’s unwavering dedication to fire safety advocacy is commendable.
“His hands-on service and passion for protecting communities through public education on smoke and carbon monoxide alarms make him a true champion of prevention.”
The Canadian Elevator Industry Educational Program was honoured with the Legacy Award for its safety leadership and delivery of safety education and apprenticeship programs for elevator constructor apprentices and mechanics since its establishment in 1967.
As the sole training provider offering a foundational apprenticeship program and continuing education for certified elevator mechanics.
CEIEP plays a role in developing in-school curriculum standards for apprenticeship training and creating the initial TSSA-approved curriculum and workbooks focusing on safety and maintenance.
Its comprehensive approach to safety education, which focuses on both technical competencies and human well-being, positively impacts worker safety within the elevating devices industry.
AJ Kadirgamar, Director of Elevating and Amusement Devices with TSSA shared: “CEIEP is a cornerstone of safety education in Ontario’s elevating devices sector.
“We are proud to honour CEIEP for its enduring leadership and commitment to advancing safety codes and protecting workers and the public through education.”
CEIEP continues to influence industry regulations by participating in industry advisory boards, shaping training standards and certification policies by contributing to the development of safety codes for elevators and escalators.
The Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) celebrated outstanding public safety leadership at its 2025 Safety Awards.
