Legislative roundup: Changes in OHS laws and regulations from West to East

New mobile app offers quick contractor-liability clearance in B.C. • Ontario unveils hours of work and overtime tool • Ontario electrical safety code effective May 1 • Province reviewing WHSCC

British Columbia

New mobile app offers quick contractor-liability clearance in B.C.


WorkSafeBC is releasing a new mobile app that gives employers, contractors and homeowners the ability to access clearance letters from a smartphone or tablet. Clearance letters are notices that tell employers or homeowners whether a firm, contractor or sub-contractor is complying with WorkSafeBC’s registration and payment requirements.  Employers or homeowners that hire a contractor who is not in compliance could be liable for outstanding premiums, according to WorkSafeBC. The app allows employers to request new clearance letters from WorkSafeBC, and to review existing clearance letters, requests and contractor profiles from their smartphones or tablets.  Subcontractors can use the app to show on-the-spot proof their WorkSafeBC registrations and premiums are up-to-date. It will automatically email updated clearance information back to the offices of the employers and contractors after they review it in the field. Additionally, it can help homeowners check on contractors before hiring them. The clearance letter mobile app is available on the WorkSafeBC website — people using smartphones will be automatically directed to the mobile app: www.worksafebc.com/insurance/managing_your_account/clearance_letters/default.asp

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