Two new ohs laws to be taken seriously in 2016!
When a bill is accepted and established as a standard in a province, it is often a sign that this law will cross borders and will sooner or later touch other provinces, or even spread at a national level. Therefore, it is important to be informed right away.
Protection of farm and ranch workers in Alberta
Entered into force on January 1, 2016, this new act aims to protect workers in the agriculture sector.
Alberta was going its own way compared to other provinces concerning safety on farms and ranches, but now has basic safety standards and must provide paid workers with a healthy and safe work environment, as well as an insurance coverage from the Workers’ Compensation Board. Also, it is now possible for the workers to refuse any work considered dangerous and OHS will be able to investigate serious injuries and fatalities.
Here are positive statistics; first introduced in British Columbia, this act protecting farm and ranch workers helped reduce the fatality rate on farms by 68% and the injury rate by 52%. Also, this represents a reduction of 41% of serious injuries; that result should not be overlooked.
SPI Health and Safety offers the services of our experts who are well-equipped to assess the risks in your work environment and efficiently manage prevention. Do not hesitate to contact us!
What is the noise by-law in Ontario?
This new by-law will come into force on July 1, 2016, and is designed to provide workers with an acceptable noise level in the following work environments in Ontario:
- Industrial facilities
- Offshore oil and gas
- Health care facilities
- Agricultural operations
- Police services
- Mines and mining companies
- Construction sites
- Schools
- Fire services
- Amusement parks
As hearing loss at work or occupational deafness caused by noise exposure is at the top of the list of diseases among workers in Ontario, protective measures are now mandatory. For example, the employer will need to provide equipment as well as technical and practical work controls. Signs indicating the noise level must be visible in all work areas.
Also, ear protectors, such as specialized earplugs, will be mandatory for workers when the noise level is greater than 85 decibels over an 8-hour work shift. Furthermore, the employer will need to offer proper training on the maintenance, use and adjustment of this equipment.
At SPI Health and Safety, we have experts in occupational noise detection and protection. Our specialists will be able to measure the noise level on site and help you choose the right hearing protection while offering the appropriate training to your employees in order to provide a healthy and safe work environment. Do not hesitate to request an assessment by one of our occupational hygienists.
