Saskatchewan holding information sessions on OHS changes | Manitoba launches global review of workplace health, safety | Ontario giving out free workplace posters
SASKATCHEWAN
Saskatchewan holding information sessions on OHS changes
The government of Saskatchewan is holding 30 information sessions across the province to explain new occupational health and safety amendments it passed earlier this year. The sessions are scheduled to run from June to December. (See www.gov.sk.ca/adx/aspx/adxGetMedia.aspx?mediaId=1732&PN=Shared for a complete schedule.) Highlights of the information sessions include:
• enhanced duties of employers, supervisors and suppliers
• duties of owners and prime contractors in the co-ordination of site safety on worksites with multiple employers or self-employed persons
• procedures related to the creation and the effectiveness of occupational health committees and programs.
The amendments will take effect following proclamation on Sept. 3, 2012. To register for a session, call (800) 567-7233 or (800) 667-5023.
MANITOBA
Manitoba launches global review of workplace health, safety
WINNIPEG — Manitobans will be able to go online to review key information about workplace safety and health (WSH) enforcement actions with employers as part of a new series of initiatives aimed at improving worker safety. The province will also undertake an independent global review of workplace safety and health enforcement and prevention, according to Family Services and Labour Minister Jennifer Howard, minister responsible for the Workers Compensation Board. The review will be used to develop a comprehensive five-year strategy that transforms the way Manitoba approaches workplace injury and illness, she said. It will include:
• a review of the Workplace Safety and Health Act
• a review of public awareness initiatives, as well as education and training
• an external evaluation of the Workers Compensation Board’s rate-setting model.
Manitoba Family Services and Labour has worked closely and collaboratively with stakeholders to reduce workplace injuries and significantly reduce Manitoba’s time-loss injury rate, said the government. The number of inspections done annually has increased to more than 12,000 from 1,000 and the number of safety and health officers has more than doubled.
ONTARIO
Ontario giving out free workplace posters
TORONTO — The Ontario government is distributing free workplace posters titled “Health & Safety at Work – Prevention Starts Here” in English, French and 15 other languages. Under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA), employers are required to post the act and any explanatory material prepared by the ministry, which includes this poster. However, the ministry wants to ensure employers have sufficient time to become aware of the new requirement to post the poster. Inspectors will begin enforcing this requirement on Oct. 1, 2012, said the government. The poster summarizes workers’ health and safety rights and responsibilities and the responsibilities of employers and supervisors. It also reminds employers they must not take action against workers for following the act or raising workplace health and safety concerns, and seeking enforcement of the OHSA. The poster encourages workers to get involved in health and safety and explains when and why to contact the Ministry of Labour. Once downloaded, the poster can be printed in black and white or colour and must be posted in print size of at least 8.5 by 11 inches. Posters are available at www.labour.gov.on.ca/english/hs/pubs/poster_prevention.php
