Every worker in Newfoundland and Labrador has the right to a healthy and safe workplace. An OHS policy or program outlines what is acceptable from a health and safety perspective at a specific workplace. It demonstrates that an organization takes the health and safety of its employees seriously, showing commitment and building trust. They are also essential to create a positive health and safety culture at a workplace.
An OHS policy must communicate the employer’s commitment to a healthy and safe workforce, be signed by senior management, be reviewed regularly, and updated as needed. When drafting such policies, it is important to incorporate the responsibilities of all workplace parties (employer, supervisor, worker, etc.).
An OHS program is a system to manage health and safety issues in the workplace. It must include an OHS policy, as well as additional elements necessary to prevent injury and illness at the specific workplace. Like an OHS policy, a program must be reviewed regularly and updated as needed.
The Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulations state that where 20 or more workers are employed at a workplace, the employer must establish and maintain an occupational health and safety (OHS) program.
What are the key elements of an Occupational Health and Safety Program?
Leadership and Administration
Occupational Health and Safety Committees
Education and Training
Communication
Safe Work Practices and Procedures
Hazard Recognition, Evaluation and Control
Workplace Inspections
Accident/ Incident Investigations
Emergency Preparedness
Disability Management
Ergonomics should be incorporated into each program element.
Duties of Employers and Workers in OHS
Employers and employees have a personal responsibility and accountability for workplace health and safety. This is also referred to as an Internal Responsibility System (IRS). Employers are responsible for developing safe work practices, providing adequate training and making employees familiar with hazards in the workplace. Employees follow the safe work practices, participate in the training and report hazards.
What are the employers' duties?
Ensure the health, safety and welfare of workers and those not in his or her employ
Maintain a healthy and safe workplace, systems, equipment and tools
Provide information, instruction, training and supervision, including requirements by the OHS Act and Regulations and other associated legislation
Provide operating instructions for using devices or equipment
Ensure workers are aware of hazards
Establish an OHS committee or worker health and safety representative or workplace health and safety designate as required and consult and co-operate with them
Respond in writing to recommendations of the OHS committee, worker health and safety representative or workplace health and safety designate and provide them with periodic written updates on implementation
Make arrangements for and consult with the OHS committee or worker health and safety representative or workplace health and safety designate during workplace inspections
Co-operate with anyone exercising a duty imposed under OHS legislation
Ensure safety clothing, equipment or devices are used
Ensure safety procedures are followed at all times
Notify the Assistant Deputy Minister responsible for OHS of a workplace accident that results in or has the potential to result in a serious injury or death
What are the workers' duties?
Protect his/her health and safety, that of co-workers and others at or near the workplace
Co-operate with employer, co-workers, OHS committee/worker health and safety representative/ workplace health and safety designate, and anyone exercising a duty imposed under OHS legislation
Follow instructions and training
Report hazardous conditions
Properly use all safety equipment/devices/clothing
What are the workers' rights?
Know about workplace hazards
Participate and assist in identifying and resolving OHS issues
