2024 SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
Harnessing the Power of Connection For A Sustainable Future
“We recently refined our vision and core values to align with our long-term business strategy. Our goal is to create a work environment that drives our mission forward ”
Our Vision and Values video
Message from the President and CEO
I am delighted to present OE's 2024 Sustainability Report. While OE has continually fostered a strong safety culture and built an award-winning safety record, over the past year, we've taken major strides to enhance operational safety.
Using AI-Enabled Tools
In 2024, OE installed AI-enabled camera systems in all our fleet. This forward, two-way in-cab, side and rear-facing system provides real-time monitoring, safety alerts, recording and driver-safety reporting. We have refined on-line job site audit tools to enhance our focus on ensuring critical safe work requirements are being consistently used.
In addition to our AI-enabled fleet camera system, we advanced innovation in our business through the use of other AI-enabled tools. For example, we employed AI to plan safer vehicle routing, basic market and operational research, meeting recording and notes preparation.
We will look increasingly to AI to support the business in scheduling and dispatch, preventative and predictive maintenance, health & safety and finance.
New Locations Closer to Our Customers
In 2024, geographical growth was an important focus as we expanded our operational footprint with three new locations - Ottawa, Barrie and London. These regional business units enable OE to be closer to our customers, propelling our cost-effective, sustainability-sensitive growth. We will continue to diversify our customer base and increase our service offerings.
We are dedicated to serving our customers and communities to help them thrive! At the heart is a commitment to building a safe and rewarding shared future that is also sustainable and inspiring.
We were thrilled to be awarded the 2024 Hydrovac Excavator of the Year by the ORCGA, recognizing excellence in safe digging practices, and marking our fourth time winning this prestigious award.
The Power of LEAN Thinking
By embracing LEAN Thinking across all operations, we've eliminated waste and increased productivity, delivering the best value to our customers while minimizing risk and safeguarding the environment.
We are moving forward with our plans to replicate our GTA co-location model in Hamilton, Barrie, and Durham Region. Our aim is to park our trucks where or very near where we dump our excavated soils. The collected materials are refined into separate higher value streams of prime or virgin sand and aggregate products.
Co-location saves our customers time and money while significantly reducing our travel costs and carbon footprint.
Refreshing our Vision and Values
We recently refined our vision and core values to align with our long-term business strategy. Our vision of providing Groundbreaking Utility Support Services, Driven By Unparalleled Safety And Sustainability To Help Our Communities Thrive, speaks to the relationship of our business to the communities in which we live and work and of our unwavering commitment to safety, sustainability, and customer savings.
Thank you for your support and trust in OE Utility Services. Together, we will build a sustainable future for generations to come.
Warm regards,
Barry Wood, President and CEO
Driving Change with Sustainable Practices
Minimizing Environmental Impact
OE strives to minimize environmental impact while delivering exceptional service to our customers. We aim to set new benchmarks in environmental stewardship and operational excellence by continuously improving our processes and infrastructure.
This includes our on-premises soil disposal, processing, and refining facility, ensuring that excavated soils are managed in an environmentally responsible manner.
Our 2.5-hectare hydrovac waste disposal and processing site operates under the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks' approval and adheres to all Ontario environmental regulations. Furthermore, we rigorously test all waste against industry's best practices to ensure compliance with soil standards.
Our current soil handling and refining processes enable 100% of the hydrovac waste to be upgraded for value-added use. We will continue to increase the added value in the reuse of these materials.
We View Hydrovac Waste as a Valuable
Resource Awaiting its Next Use.
We divert silt and clay and process it as clean fill.
We process and refine aggregate and sand for use in road construction and premium performance pipe bedding.
We recycle and reuse water collected from our daily work.
Refining Helps Everyone
Refining isn’t just a process—it’s a commitment to a cleaner, more sustainable future that benefits everyone. When hydrovac slurry arrives at our recycling facility, we ensure that every drop of water is repurposed, supporting the entire upgrading process, from treatment to refilling our hydrovac trucks. All hydrovac waste collected in our daily operations is meticulously processed at our soil processing facility, where it is transformed into usable components like water, sand, silts, clays, and aggregates—keeping valuable materials in circulation instead of sending them to landfill.
Ensure that hydrovac waste materials are handled safely and securely in a highly controlled environment. All materials undergo a rigorous testing, tracking, and tracing system to monitor any risk of contamination.
Premium Performance Pipe Bedding
Our recycled sand is specifically formulated for use as a premium bedding material for underground utility piping. Engineered for high performance and containing a higher moisture content, our bedding material experiences less sinkage and fewer effects from thawing and freezing contraction.
But our efforts don’t stop there. We’ve expanded our reprocessing initiatives to include other excavated materials, such as concrete and asphalt, ensuring they are repurposed rather than discarded. By doing this, we’re not just reducing waste—we’re creating opportunities for communities, businesses, and the environment to thrive. Because when we recycle, everyone benefits.
Doing More to Address Climate Change:
Redirect facility warm air on discharge to heat our outside freezing-sensitive operations.
Use high-efficiency, motion-sensing LED lighting throughout our facility, cutting down on energy consumption.
Capture and divert rainwater from our roof for reuse within our soil recycling facility.
Office operations are striving to significantly reduce paper consumption and recycle all that we use.
Reduce office-generated waste and recycle other office-generated waste, e.g., eliminate single-serving plastic water bottles.
Use biobased products in our new purchased vehicles and changeover from petroleum-based products whenever possible
Purpose Built, Environmentally Friendly Equipment
One way OE is tackling climate change is by using custom-built equipment to cut down on greenhouse gas emissions. Our technical advancements help reduce the amount of gases released into the atmosphere, helping to slow global warming.
Our latest hydrovac fleet features leading technologies to boost fuel efficiency and reduce noise pollution. Our new hydrovacs are 10 decibels quieter and 100% quieter than older models. This is a big win for busy, densely populated urban areas. We are specifically selected to perform work in noise sensitive surroundings. We've also teamed up with university engineering students to explore more ways to reduce hydrovac noise pollution
More Investments in Green Technologies
We're committed to converting our fleet's hydraulic systems to run on vegetable oil, further lowering environmental risks and impacts. Plus, OE invests in other groundbreaking innovations to improve environmental outcomes.
- Custom-made hydrovacs are 10 decibels quieter than other hydrovacs.
- Cold weather cabinetry eliminates freeze-up, even on the coldest days.
- Rotating water nozzles instead of straight tips for safer, faster excavation.
- 2/3 of our fleet will be Next-Gen within 5 years.
- The largest vacuums with the highest flow rate industry-wide.
- Dig up to 900 feet from the truck - the furthest in the industry.
Along with our hydrovacs, we offer a range of support equipment and vehicles to keep things running smoothly, so we can get our work done quickly, safely, and with less impact on neighborhoods and the environment. Our fleet now includes over 150 vehicles.
Fund and participate in the design and building of a prototype hybrid diesel/electric hydrovac that will contribute to significant reductions during operation in greenhouse gas emissions as well as significantly reduce noise pollution while in use.
Our new hydrovacs are purchased with the latest technology to reduce noise pollution, fuel consumption and carbon emissions.
Bundling Services for a Greener Tomorrow
Starting in 2017, OE verifiably reduced carbon emissions by 30% from less vehicular travel because of our then new centrally GTA located shop and our on-premises soil disposal and recycling facility.
At OE, sustainability is at the core of everything we do. Our comprehensive approach to hydro excavation minimizes environmental impact by combining a range of services into one streamlined solution. This eliminates the need for multiple subcontractors, reducing inefficiencies, carbon emissions, and project costs.
Innovative Solutions to Reduce Carbon Footprint
By leveraging modern equipment, expert technicians, and a state-of-the-art soil processing facility, we actively reduce our environmental footprint. Our soil processing facility is pivotal in decreasing carbon emissions by cutting the need for long-distance transportation to dispose of waste materials. This not only helps the environment but also saves our customers valuable time and resources.
Comprehensive Service Offerings
Our start-to-finish service model ensures that every aspect of a project is handled with environmental care and efficiency. Key services include:
- Road Cutting and Coring: Precision work that minimizes disruption and waste.
- U-Fill Services: A sustainable and efficient approach to material reuse.
- Stone Slingers and Aggregate/Sand Delivery: Accurate and low-impact material placement and delivery.
- Hard and Soft Surface Restoration: Eco-friendly methods to restore project sites.
- Support Vehicles and Crews: Comprehensive on-site support for seamless execution.
- Soil Disposal and Recycling: Responsible handling and recycling of excavated materials.
By bundling these services under one roof, OE ensures projects are completed quickly and safely. This integrated approach allows us to lower overall costs for our customers while protecting the environment for future generations – one project at a time.
Making Sustainable Connections with Our Customers
Our innovative co-location model is paving the way for a greener, more efficient future. By strategically positioning our operations closer to customer projects, we not only reduce travel time and cut costs but also achieve a remarkable 30% reduction in carbon emissions. It’s a solution that benefits both our customers and the planet.
Looking ahead, we are committed to expanding this model across Ontario, bringing our services even closer to where they’re needed most. Currently, we proudly serve areas including the GTA, Hamilton, Kitchener, the Golden Horseshoe, London, East GTA, Barrie, and Ottawa, with plans to grow even further.
Our People, Our Communities, Our Shared Success
At OE, valuing diversity, equity and inclusion underpins our culture. Our commitment to fostering a safe, diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace where all employees feel respected and valued is what sets us apart. Merging diverse perspectives, experiences, and skills gives us a competitive edge in our industry.
By actively embracing unique perspectives and experiences, we promote a collaborative culture that drives innovation and continuous improvement in our work processes and performance outcomes.
Together, we are confident in our ability to create a more sustainable future for our company, our people, and the communities we serve.
Although we are proud of our progress, we acknowledge the need to do more and to stay dedicated to advancing our efforts. We recently refreshed our vision and values to better align with the enriching employee experience we strive to cultivate daily.
Ensuring a minimum of 1.5% of goods and services are purchased from diverse suppliers in 2025.
Our Vision
Groundbreaking Utility Support Services, Driven By Unparalleled Safety And Sustainability To Help Our Communities Thrive.
Our Core Values
Our core values guide the way we conduct ourselves with our customers and each other.
Respect Each Other
We approach each other with honesty, trust, care, and mutual respect. We embrace inclusivity.
Be Responsive
We strive to be engaged and committed to the success of our customers, our people, our industry, and our communities. We are forward thinkers, continuously improving.
Champion Safety
We are relentless in improving physical and emotional well-being.
Do The Right Thing
We always act ethically. We take concrete actions to attain sustainable, social, and environmental objectives.
A Fulfilling Employee Experience
Fostering a Supportive and Engaging Work Environment
We remain dedicated to fostering a supportive and engaging work environment at OE. We prioritize employee development through extensive training, ensuring every team member is confident and well-equipped.
Cultivating a Sense of Community
We take pride in cultivating a sense of community where employees are not just a workforce but a family that grows together. Regular interactions and celebrations help us maintain a vibrant company culture reflecting our core vision and values.
Setting Industry Standards
As industry leaders, we set the standard, aspiring to make our employees feel proud of their decision to join OE.
Championing Employee Growth and Well-Being
We strive to provide a workplace that champions their growth, satisfaction, and well-being, making their experience at OE both fulfilling and rewarding.
Committed to ensuring a workplace free of violence and harassment through monitoring and enforcement of policies and procedures.
Hiring Practices
Prioritizing Skills and Gender Equality
At OE, our approach to hiring prioritizes skills and gender equality. By valuing individuals based on their qualifications and abilities, regardless of gender, we create a workplace that champions diversity and inclusion.
We are dedicated to achieving gender parity across all levels—field, office, and management—which is essential for breaking barriers and providing equal opportunities for all talented professionals. OE is committed to monitoring and maintaining pay equity.
Monitor and maintain pay equity among all its employees regardless of their race, gender, ethnicity, age, religion, or other non-job-related factors.
A Relentless Focus on Safety
Our priority and passion are the safety and well-being of our employees, customers, and the communities we serve. We constantly evolve our practices to align with the most current safety standards.
By prioritizing safety, we aim to create a workplace where every employee feels secure and supported. This commitment to safety helps protects our team and enhances our overall performance and success.
Our commitment includes providing field employees with all essential protective work clothing, seasonal adaptations, and safety gear, including personal protective equipment (PPE). Our goal of achieving zero lost time due to injury underscores our attention to a culture of preparedness and prevention.
100% of field employees are trained in the safe stewardship of our hydrovac waste under the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act and the Environmental Protection Act, Regulation 347 General Waste Management
Training for Tomorrow
We invest in our people from day one. Our ongoing education efforts include mandatory online training, educational safety moments, alerts, and more.
Proactive Daily Engagement
Our Leadership Team convenes daily to review business activities and safety incidents, reinforcing our commitment to a zero-incident workplace.
Certifications That Set Us Apart
OE proudly holds COR 2020 and ISO 45001 certifications and is recognized as a Safe Employer by SOSE, demonstrating our commitment to maintaining a safe and healthy work environment.
Job Site Safety Audits and Assessments
Our crews conduct thorough job site safety assessments before any work begins. All leaders perform regular safety audits to ensure compliance with work procedures and identify improvement opportunities.
Accident Prevention and Driver Training
Our focus on safety includes recent upgraded cameras used in our vehicles to prevent accidents. Cameras aid the driver in seeing what is around their vehicle, improves blind-spot visibility, helps monitor driver activity through real-time alerts, promotes safer driving practices such as avoiding speeding, or distracted driving.
Our drivers receive ongoing driver coaching through information captured in real-time, reviewing footage for training purposes, and analytics to identify where additional support or training may be beneficial.
100% of field employees are trained in spill response and containment. OE keeps spill containment equipment on all hydrovacs.
Commitment to Indigenous Engagement
We recognize that meaningful Indigenous relations begin with respect, understanding, and a genuine commitment to creating mutual benefit. This approach directly reflects our core values. Operating across diverse regions of Ontario, we acknowledge that our work takes place on the traditional territories of many First Nations communities.
In 2024, we embarked on a journey to deepen our engagement with Indigenous businesses and communities. We joined the Canadian Council for Indigenous Business, participated in key conferences, and engaged an Indigenous Relations Advisor to help shape our path forward. Throughout this process, we’ve focused on learning before acting and challenging our assumptions through thoughtful questions.
Retain an Indigenous Relations Advisor
Looking ahead, we are committed to:
- Training our team on Indigenous histories, cultures, and contemporary realities
- Exploring partnerships with Indigenous businesses in the utility support services sector
- Establishing meaningful metrics to track our progress and hold ourselves accountable
We understand that building trust takes time and consistent action. As we move forward, we will continue to listen, learn, and adapt our approach to ensure we contribute positively to economic reconciliation in the communities where we operate.
Contributing to the Well-being of Our Communities
OE Utility Services, headquartered in Toronto, with offices in Hamilton, Kitchener, London, Barrie, Clarington, and Ottawa, is actively engaged in community support activities.
We aim to make a positive difference in people's daily lives and generously support various health and social causes.
OE is a VIP sponsor of the Enbridge United Way Golf Tournament and a loyal sponsor and supporter of the Enbridge Ride to Conquer Cancer.
Measuring Our Impact
Ongoing Commitment to Sustainability
OE is dedicated to enhancing its sustainability performance on an ongoing basis. We understand that sustainability goes beyond environmental issues and demands a more comprehensive approach, emphasizing the importance of managing risks and opportunities related to environmental, social, and governance criteria (ESG).
Progress in Sustainable Business Initiatives
We were pleased to make progress across all our sustainable business initiatives. For the second time, we proudly achieved a bronze medal from EcoVadis, an international reporting framework that evaluates the quality of a company’s corporate sustainability reporting system based on its policies, actions, and results.
Regularly assess and measure the environmental impact of our operations for continual improvement.
Driving Greenhouse Gas Reduction Using LEAN Thinking Principles
Publish and distribute an annual Sustainability Report.
Environmental Stewardship
At OE, we believe every business has a vital role in environmental stewardship. Aligned with the 2015 Paris Agreement, we are committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and partnering with forward-thinking customers who place environmental responsibility at the forefront of their operations.
Meet or surpass all legislative requirements for the safe testing, handling, and disposal of hydrovac waste, under provincial regulation 406/19, maintain our Environmental Compliance Approval (ECA) and meet the City of Vaughan sanitary discharge requirements.
Collaborative Efforts for a Sustainable Future
Together, we aim to safeguard the environment for future generations. By adopting LEAN Thinking principles to streamline processes and minimize waste, OE is on track to achieve a 50% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.
Measuring Progress and Setting Benchmarks
We measure our progress based on 2005 business generation levels per hydrovac unit, as 2005 represents the peak year for greenhouse gas emissions in the USA.
