Edmonton
Workplace Safety
An introduction to workplace safety regulations and practices in Edmonton.
Sections
1. Workplace Safety Regulations in Edmonton
Workplace safety in Edmonton is regulated by the Alberta Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) legislation, which includes:
- OHS Act: Outlines the legal framework for workplace health and safety.
- OHS Regulation: Provides specific rules and requirements for employers and workers.
- OHS Code: Contains detailed technical standards and safety practices.
These laws apply to most industries in Edmonton, with some exceptions (e.g., federally regulated industries like banking or telecommunications, which follow federal OHS laws).
Key aspects of Albertaโs OHS legislation include:
- Hazard Assessment and Control: Employers must identify workplace hazards, assess risks, and implement controls to mitigate them.
- Workplace Violence and Harassment: Employers must have policies and procedures to address and prevent workplace violence and harassment.
- Joint Work Site Health and Safety Committees (HSCs): Required for workplaces with 20 or more workers, these committees promote collaboration between employers and employees on safety issues.
- Right to Refuse Dangerous Work: Employees have the right to refuse work they believe poses an imminent danger to their health or safety.
2. Employee Rights
Employees in Edmonton have the following rights under Albertaโs OHS laws:
- Right to Know: Workers must be informed about workplace hazards and trained on how to work safely.
- Right to Participate: Workers can participate in health and safety discussions, including through HSCs or health and safety representatives.
- Right to Refuse Unsafe Work: Workers can refuse work if they believe it poses an immediate danger to themselves or others. Employers cannot discipline workers for exercising this right.
If an employee feels their rights are being violated, they can file a complaint with Alberta OHS or contact the Alberta Labour Relations Board.
3. Employer Responsibilities
Employers in Edmonton are legally required to:
- Provide a Safe Workplace: Ensure the health, safety, and welfare of workers and others at the worksite.
- Conduct Hazard Assessments: Identify and mitigate risks associated with workplace activities.
- Develop Safety Programs: Create and implement health and safety programs tailored to the workplace.
- Provide Training: Train workers on safe work practices, emergency procedures, and the proper use of equipment.
- Report Incidents: Report serious injuries, illnesses, or fatalities to Alberta OHS immediately. Near-miss incidents must also be documented and investigated.
- Maintain Equipment: Ensure tools, machinery, and equipment are in safe working condition.
- Comply with OHS Inspections: Cooperate with OHS officers during workplace inspections or investigations.
Failure to meet these responsibilities can result in fines, penalties, or legal action.
4. Costs Related to Workplace Safety Programs
Employers in Edmonton must allocate resources to workplace safety, which may include:
- Training Costs: Employers are responsible for covering the cost of safety training for employees, such as first aid, WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System), and equipment operation.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Employers must provide necessary PPE (e.g., helmets, gloves, goggles) at no cost to employees.
- Safety Program Development: Employers may need to hire consultants or dedicate internal resources to develop and maintain safety programs.
- Workersโ Compensation Insurance: Employers must register with the Workersโ Compensation Board (WCB) Alberta and pay premiums to provide coverage for workplace injuries or illnesses.
The cost of these programs varies depending on the size and nature of the business, but they are essential for compliance and worker safety.
5. Key Procedures and Protocols
Workplaces in Edmonton must follow these key safety procedures:
- Emergency Response Plans: Employers must have plans in place for emergencies such as fires, chemical spills, or natural disasters. Employees should be trained on evacuation routes and emergency contacts.
- Incident Reporting and Investigation: All workplace incidents, including near misses, must be reported and investigated to prevent recurrence.
- Workplace Inspections: Regular inspections should be conducted to identify and address hazards.
- First Aid Requirements: Employers must provide first aid kits and ensure an adequate number of employees are trained in first aid, as per the OHS Code.
- Safe Work Practices: Employers must establish and enforce safe work practices, such as lockout/tagout procedures for machinery or fall protection for working at heights.
6. Local Considerations for Edmonton Workplaces
Edmontonโs unique climate, industries, and demographics present specific workplace safety considerations:
- Cold Weather Safety: Edmonton experiences harsh winters, with temperatures often dropping below -20ยฐC. Employers must implement cold weather safety measures, such as providing heated shelters, warm clothing, and guidelines for working in extreme cold.
- Oil and Gas Industry: Many Edmonton-area workers are employed in oil and gas, which involves high-risk activities like working with heavy machinery, chemicals, and confined spaces. Specialized training and safety protocols are essential.
- Construction Boom: Edmontonโs growing infrastructure means many workers are employed in construction. Employers must ensure compliance with fall protection, scaffolding safety, and equipment operation standards.
- Diverse Workforce: Edmonton is home to a multicultural workforce, including many immigrants. Employers should provide safety training in multiple languages and ensure cultural sensitivity in workplace policies.
- Wildlife and Outdoor Work: For industries like forestry or outdoor construction, workers may encounter wildlife or natural hazards. Employers should provide training on wildlife safety and environmental awareness.
7. Resources for Workplace Safety in Edmonton
- Alberta OHS: https://www.alberta.ca/occupational-health-safety.aspx
- Workersโ Compensation Board (WCB) Alberta: https://www.wcb.ab.ca
- Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS): https://www.ccohs.ca
- Edmonton Fire Rescue Services: Provides emergency response and fire safety training.
- Local Safety Training Providers: Numerous organizations in Edmonton offer OHS training, including St. John Ambulance and private safety consultants.
8. Reporting Unsafe Workplaces
If you encounter unsafe working conditions in Edmonton, you can:
- Report the issue to your employer or HSC.
- Contact Alberta OHS at 1-866-415-8690 (toll-free).
- File a complaint online through the Alberta OHS website.
By adhering to these regulations and best practices, both employers and employees in Edmonton can contribute to a safe and healthy work environment. If you need further assistance or specific guidance, feel free to ask!