Amid uncertainty with tariffs and how they could affect Okanagan companies, the third annual Make It Safe Okanagan conference is set to take place in 琉璃神社.

The purpose of the conference, which is put on by the Manufacturing Safety Alliance of BC (MSABC), is to connect the local people in the health and safety community to discuss training and insights into the fast-moving and ever-changing economic environment.

鈥淚n this high-pressure environment, we recognize that safety may not always be top of mind,鈥� said MSABC CEO Wayne Arondus. 鈥淎nd when workers are distracted, stressed, and aren鈥檛 paying attention, accidents can happen. Our job is to advise and support B.C. businesses within these environmental and economic constraints to build viable health and safety strategies. Safety training and education encourages people to challenge their own complacency with existing structures and processes."

The opening keynote speaker will be Daniel McQueen, who will share how he changed his perspective and strategies while rebuilding his life after a brain hemorrhage at 28. MSABC's Director of Leadership and Psychological Safety Dr. Steve Conway will also discuss being prepared for change in the workplace.

Additionally, there will be an industry panel where Northside Industries Inc. president Mark Burleigh and Freeport Industries president Chris Inkster will speak on the current economic conditions.

Workshops will also be taking place throughout the event, which runs from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Coast Capri Hotel in 琉璃神社 on Thursday, April 10.

鈥淥ver the last few years, it鈥檚 become increasingly clear that in order to succeed and thrive, companies need to pivot and re-adapt during challenging times,鈥� added Arondus. 鈥淭hat is only possible in a psychologically safe workplace, where leaders have the emotional intelligence to manage stress and help their teams navigate the situation.鈥�

More information about the conference can be found on the Make It Safe .