Starting Off in a Good Way: Respectful Onsite Initiative Training

The new BC Cancer centre in Kamloops is beginning on a strong foundation, not only through construction planning but also by building a culture of respect, safety, and inclusion on site.

On Sept. 10, project team members from EllisDon, along with Enhanced Inclusion Development Agreement (EIDA) Committee members—including representatives from Infrastructure BC, BC Cancer, Provincial Health Services Authority (PHSA), and Interior Health—took part in a Respectful Onsite Initiative (ROI) training session led by BC Infrastructure Benefits (BCIB).

This was the first ROI training session for the project. ROI sessions will continue throughout the course of the BC Cancer centre build project to ensure all workers receive this important education and have the opportunity to contribute to a respectful and inclusive workplace.

The ROI program is designed to foster safe and welcoming jobsites, free of bullying, harassment, and discrimination—an important step forward for the construction industry.

ROI training includes two key components:

History Matters: Reconciliation in the Workplace – delivered by a cultural and language facilitator from Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc, supported by other non-Indigenous trainers, shared hard truths of our shared history while creating opportunities for learning, reflection, and reconciliation.

Justice, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (JEDI) – focused on supporting women, 2SLGBTQ+ workers, newcomers, and marginalized groups, this session highlights ways to build inclusive, respectful workplaces while addressing mental health, addiction, and the opioid crisis.

Reflecting on the value of the training, Michael Morton, Corporate Director, Major Capital Projects, IH, noted:

“The Respectful Onsite Initiative is an important focus for contractors and subcontractors, as respect, inclusion, and mental health are key issues across the construction industry. The training not only highlights the impact these topics have—particularly in male-dominated workforces—but also provides important perspective on the history and experiences of Indigenous communities. It helps participants understand how to build relationships and integrate Indigenous knowledge and respect into our worksites in a meaningful way. Together, these lessons underscore why creating safer, more supportive, and more inclusive jobsites matters to everyone.”

By embedding respect and inclusion into the foundation of the new BC Cancer centre in Kamloops, the team is helping ensure not just a new health facility, but also a safer, stronger, and more supportive work environment for all involved.

Elders from Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc present at the Respectful Onsite Initiative training session in fall 2025.