MANUFACTURING & PRODUCTION WORKERS IN ONTARIO
Manufacturing Workers Build Ontario — We Help Protect Them
Manufacturing and production workers are essential to Ontario’s economy. From factory floors to food-processing plants, this work keeps goods moving and businesses running.
UBC Local 1072 represents manufacturing and production workers across Ontario by helping secure fair wages, safer workplaces, and real job security.
This page explains manufacturing work clearly — and how union representation can help.
Who this page is for
This page is for people working in manufacturing and production jobs in Ontario, including:
• Factory and plant workers
• Assembly line workers
• Production and general labourers
• Machine and press operators
• Food and beverage processing workers
• Materials handling and warehouse workers
• Maintenance department workers
If your work involves production, processing, plant operations, or materials handling, this page is for you.
What Manufacturing & Production Work Involves
Manufacturing and production jobs involve making, assembling, or processing goods in factories, plants, or workshops.
This work often includes:
• Operating machines or tools
• Repetitive tasks
• Shift work (days, nights, rotating schedules)
• Production targets and quotas
• Working around heavy equipment
These jobs are essential — but they can also involve safety risks, physical strain, and scheduling pressure.
Common Risks in Manufacturing Jobs
Many manufacturing workers face similar challenges across Ontario workplaces.
Physical Strain
• Repetitive motion injuries
• Heavy lifting
• Long hours standing
Safety Hazards
• Unguarded or poorly maintained machines
• Lockout and tagout failures
• Inadequate safety training
Scheduling and Pay Issues
• Mandatory or excessive overtime
• Last-minute shift changes
• Missed breaks or unpaid time
Many problems happen because workers feel pressure to “keep the line moving” — even when something isn’t safe.
