Indigenous Relations Policy

A.R.C Inspection Services LTD (“A.R.C”, “we”, “us”, or “the Company”) is committed to building and maintaining positive, respectful, and mutually beneficial relationships with Indigenous Peoples, communities, and businesses in the regions where we operate—primarily Alberta and Western Canada’s oil and gas sector.

We recognize the unique history, rights, cultures, languages, traditions, and knowledge systems of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples. We acknowledge the ongoing impacts of colonialism and residential schools, and we are dedicated to walking the path of reconciliation with humility, patience, and a genuine willingness to listen and learn.

Our relationships with Indigenous communities and businesses are essential to our success as a provider of non-destructive testing (NDT) and visual inspection services. We view reconciliation not as a one-time event, but as an ongoing journey that requires consistent effort, collaboration, and accountability.

Guiding Principles

We are guided by the following core commitments:

1. Respect and Recognition

We respect the inherent rights, title, treaties, and traditional territories of Indigenous Peoples. We seek to understand and honour cultural protocols, knowledge, and perspectives in all our interactions.

2. Trust-Based Relationships

We build relationships founded on trust, open communication, honesty, and mutual benefit. We approach engagements with humility, avoiding assumptions and prioritizing Indigenous voices and priorities.

3. Collaboration and Inclusion

We work collaboratively with our clients, Indigenous communities, and Indigenous-owned businesses to identify opportunities for meaningful participation in our operations. This includes proactive engagement on projects that may affect traditional lands, resources, or communities.

4. Reconciliation in Action

We support the spirit and intent of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action (particularly those directed at the corporate sector) and the principles of UNDRIP by integrating reconciliation into our business practices.

Key Areas of Commitment

Communication and Engagement

We communicate transparently and respectfully, seeking early and ongoing dialogue with Indigenous communities near our work sites or projects. We participate in consultation processes as required by regulation (e.g., Alberta's Indigenous Consultation processes) and go beyond minimum requirements where possible to foster genuine partnerships.

Contracting and Supplier Selection

We prioritize opportunities for Indigenous-owned businesses in our supply chain, including subcontracting for services, equipment, or support related to our NDT and inspection activities. Where feasible, we seek to include Indigenous businesses in bids, joint ventures, or preferred supplier arrangements to promote economic participation and shared prosperity.

Workforce Engagement

We encourage the recruitment, training, retention, and advancement of Indigenous employees and contractors. We support cultural awareness training for our team and create inclusive work environments that respect Indigenous protocols and needs (e.g., time for ceremonies, cultural leave where appropriate).

Community Relationship Building

We invest time and resources in community initiatives, education, skills development, and capacity building that align with community priorities. We participate in cultural events, support Indigenous-led programs, and seek feedback to continuously improve our approach.

Implementation and Accountability

  • Leadership and employees are accountable for upholding this policy in daily operations.
  • We integrate Indigenous relations considerations into project planning, risk assessments, and performance reviews.
  • We monitor and report internally on our progress (e.g., Indigenous business spend, engagement activities) and remain open to feedback and improvement.
  • This policy is reviewed periodically and updated as needed to reflect evolving best practices and community input.

Our Commitment

A.R.C Inspection Services LTD is committed to contributing positively to reconciliation in the oil and gas industry. By working collaboratively, we aim to create lasting, trust-based partnerships that benefit Indigenous Peoples, our clients, our team, and the broader communities we serve.

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