British Columbia Federal & Provincial OHS Regulation

WCB Introduction:

The Workers Compensation Act states that a copy of the Act and the OHS Regulation must be readily available at the workplace, yet these resources are only as valuable as the way in which they are used. Management and supervisors must know the regulatory requirements for the type of work being done and cannot rely purely on experience or “common sense” for guidance.

Definition – What does Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) mean?

Occupational health and safety (OHS) relates to health, safety, and welfare issues in the workplace.

• OHS includes the laws, standards, and programs that are aimed at making the workplace better for workers, along with co-workers, family members, customers, and other stakeholders.
• Improving a company’s occupational health and safety standards ensures good business, a better brand image, and higher employee morale.

Safety Program Requirements:

Managers and supervisors of a COR company are expected to regularly refer to the Act and OHS Regulation as an integral part of the job planning process.

Quality health and safety programs must be based on legislation requirements. The specific legislation that governs the work site depends on the combination of conditions, people, equipment, materials, environment, tools and situations.

The Occupational Health and Safety Act, Regulation and Code apply to most work sites in the province. This legislation sets out obligations for Employers, Workers, Suppliers, Manufacturers, Owners, Contractors and Prime Contractors. The legislation stipulates that these groups must be knowledgeable, and must follow the legislation on their work sites. The legislation describes performance standards, assigns responsibility, designates authority and sets penalties.

How Borealis OHS&E Solutions can help: We know the legislation and understand it. Our goal is guide you through the requirements and address those requirements in your different programs and to bring awareness to your organization and its employees as to yours and their responsibilities, rights and obligations to a healthy and safe working environment.