Workplace Health and Safety in Canada

Workplace health and safety are crucial aspects of any work environment, and under Part II of the Canada Labour Code, both employers and employees have specific rights and responsibilities. The aim is to prevent workplace-related accidents and injuries, fostering a safer environment for everyone involved.

This article outlines the key responsibilities of both employers and employees, as well as the regulations and support systems in place to ensure a healthy and safe workplace.

Employer Responsibilities

Employers have a legal obligation to provide a safe and healthy work environment. This involves implementing preventive measures, ensuring compliance with health and safety standards, and addressing potential hazards promptly.

Key responsibilities include:

• Providing a safe workplace: Employers must ensure that all areas of the workplace meet health and safety regulations.
• Developing hazard prevention programs: Employers should implement and maintain programs designed to prevent hazards and workplace violence.
• Educating employees on potential hazards: Employers must inform employees about risks and hazards associated with their job.
• Providing safety training and certification: Employees should be trained to perform their jobs safely, and any required certifications must be ensured.
• Correcting unsafe conditions: Employers are responsible for addressing and rectifying any unsafe actions or conditions.
• Providing protective equipment: Necessary safety gear and protective clothing must be available and used correctly.
• Investigating and reporting incidents: Employers are required to report and investigate any workplace accidents or incidents.

Employee Responsibilities

Employees also play an essential role in maintaining a safe work environment by following regulations and using provided safety equipment.

Key responsibilities include:

• Complying with Part II of the Canada Labour Code: Employees must follow all health and safety regulations.
• Using personal protective equipment (PPE): Employees must wear and use protective equipment and clothing as directed.
• Reporting hazards: If employees identify any workplace dangers, they must report them to a supervisor or employer.
• Working safely: Employees are required to work in a safe manner and use prescribed safety equipment.
• Reporting defective equipment: Any missing or defective safety equipment must be reported to a supervisor.

Employee Rights

In addition to responsibilities, employees have important rights under Part II of the Canada Labour Code, including:

• The right to know about workplace hazards: Employees have the right to be informed about the risks associated with their job.
• Participation in safety activities: Employees can take part in health and safety activities, such as committees or inspections.
• Refusal of unsafe work: Employees have the right to refuse any work that they believe to be dangerous or hazardous.

The Internal Complaint Process

Employees who identify potential dangers or hazards should first report the issue to their employer or supervisor. If the matter is not resolved through internal processes, a complaint can be filed with a health and safety officer from the Labour Program. The officer can then investigate and take further action if necessary.

Coverage Under the Canada Labour Code

Part II of the Canada Labour Code applies to federally regulated industries, which include:

• Transportation (interprovincial and international)
• Banks
• Telecommunications
• Broadcasting
• Shipping and related services
• Grain industry
• Crown corporations
• The federal public administration

As of July 2019, the Parliamentary Precinct also falls under these protections. A full list of federally regulated industries can be found on the Canada.ca website.

Tools and Resources

For both employers and employees, several tools and resources are available to help navigate workplace health and safety regulations:

• Fact sheets and guides: Available through the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS), covering topics like hazard prevention, the right to refuse dangerous work, and the internal complaint resolution process.
• Courses and e-learning: Online resources and training programs that provide further insight into workplace safety.
• Publications and reports: Available at Canada.ca and through the Labour Program, these resources include summaries of Part II of the Canada Labour Code and guidance on health and safety committees.

Conclusion

Workplace health and safety are shared responsibilities between employers and employees. By complying with Part II of the Canada Labour Code, both parties contribute to a safer and healthier workplace. Employers must provide adequate safety programs, equipment, and training, while employees must adhere to safety protocols and report any hazards. Together, they create a work environment that prioritizes the well-being of all.

For more information about workplace health and safety, visit Canada.ca/workplace-health-safety or contact the Labour Program at 1-800-641-4049.

Key References and Resources:

• Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety: www.ccohs.ca
• Canada Labour Code: canada.ca/regulated-industries
• Labour Program Contact Information: 1-800-641-4049