News briefs: OHS news from across Canada and around the world

New Ontario OHS portal for registered health-care workplaces

Ontario’s Ministry of Labour has launched a health and safety resources portal for registered health-care workers. Employees in registered workplaces including hospitals and supported group living residences can find publications, resources and regulations on the new site. There are event postings, links to other relevant health and safety websites and court bulletins, where convictions for violations of labour legislation are listed. Health-care professionals can download relevant safety posters and watch videos on safety topics including infection prevention and control. There is also a fall hazards tool where professionals can spot 11 hazards in a picture. In the past few years, Ontario has seen a rise in the number of registered health-care workplaces and workers, according to the ministry. To access the portal visit www.labour.gov.on.ca/english/hs/topics/healthcare.php.

Farm safety program for youth available online
 
A new Canadian farm safety awareness program for young workers is now available online. Passport to Farm Safety is a web-based test aimed at young and new workers who are working or planning to work on farms or in other agricultural settings. It was created to help Canada address the more than 110 farm fatalities and other serious, life altering injuries that occur each year, according to Safe Communities Canada, the group that launched the tool. The program covers workplace safety basics, general WHMIS concepts and workplace rights and responsibilities. In particular, the test focuses on farm-specific hazards such as tractors, heavy machinery and working with animals. Passport to Farm Safety was developed with and reviewed by farm safety experts from across Canada. Throughout September, the program was piloted in communities across the country. More information can be found at www.passporttofarmsafety.com.

WorkSafeBC launches apprenticeship safety portal

WorkSafeBC is launching an apprenticeship portal aimed at getting health and safety resources to apprentices and those working in the trades. The carpentry, electrician and plumbing trades are currently represented on the site, with a plan to include the professional cook and automotive service technician trades in the near future. Teachers, students, employers and apprentices can instantly access health and safety regulations, guidelines, videos, publications, articles, posters and safety meeting guides.  The Industry Training Authority (ITA) is a Crown agency responsible for setting standards and providing oversight of the province’s apprenticeship system. The site is located at www2.worksafebc.com/Topics/Apprenticeships/Home.asp.

New Manitoba employers can register for WCB online

New employers in Manitoba can now begin the process of registering for the Workers Compensation Board of Manitoba (WCB) online. The employer registration request allows new employers to begin the registration process online at their convenience instead of over the phone or in person. Most businesses in Manitoba are required to register for workers compensation. The online employer registration request is available at www.wcb.mb.ca. Registration by telephone and in person (during regular business hours) will continue to be accepted.

Racking and storage focus of Ontario safety inspection blitz

Inspectors in Ontario will be targeting hazards related to racking and storage during an enforcement blitz at industrial workplaces in November. Ministry of Labour inspectors will check for hazards involving the installation, use, maintenance and repair of racking and storage systems. This includes ensuring material is safely placed and stored on racks, according to the ministry. Between Jan. 1, 2006 and Dec. 31, 2010, three workers died and 45 others received serious injuries involving racking and storage, according to Ministry of Labour data.