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Winners in workplace safety and health recognized at Safety Awards Forum
Companies and individuals in B.C. are being recognized today at the 2009 Safety Forum and Awards luncheon for outstanding efforts in workplace health and safety.
Top winners in construction safety announced
Stuart Olson Constructors Inc. and Ledcor Construction Ltd. received WorkSafeBC-sponsored Construction Workplace Health and Safety Innovation Awards at the Vancouver Regional Construction Association Annual Awards of Excellence dinner.
Don’t be a superhero — think twice, lift once
In partnership with the BC Chiropractic Association, WorkSafeBC's "Think Twice, Lift Once" ad campaign expands in its third year to include a partnership with industrial retailer Acklands Grainger.
Children of construction workers urge motorists to “Slow Down” along 37 km construction zone
WorkSafeBC and Kiewit/Flatiron unveil signs that encourage drivers to slow down near the Port Mann/Highway 1 project to protect workers from potential injury.
Rock 101 listeners show they care about safety
Polygon Construction wins “I’m the bro’, but you’re the pro” contest put on by Classic Rock 101 and WorkSafeBC.
Board of Directors approves changes to classification policies
The Board of Directors has approved changes to two policies in the Assessment Manual to adopt an annual classification cycle.
Community brain injury support services
WorkSafeBC has entered into an agreement with a network of providers in B.C. for the delivery of community brain injury support services. Learn more…
WorkSafeBC imposes two penalties as a result of Canada Line crane operator fatality
WorkSafeBC has imposed administrative penalties totaling $315,343.71 against two firms involved in construction of the Canada Line rapid transit route.
Board of Directors approves changes to mental stress policy
The Board of Directors has approved changes to policy item #13.30, Mental Stress, of the RS&CM. The policy provides direction on the adjudication of claims for mental stress.
Approved occupational exposure limits for styrene and formaldehyde
At its meeting on July 14, 2009, the Board of Directors approved that the current occupational exposure limits for two substances – formaldehyde and styrene – be retained. New information added on July 24, 2009.
Proposed policy amendments on Notification of Decisions
The Board of Directors has approved a further round of consultation and the release of a discussion paper with options and proposed policy amendments to stakeholders for comment.
Proposed policy amendments regarding Reopenings Over Three Years
The Board of Directors has approved the release of a discussion paper on various options and proposed policy amendments for comment by stakeholders.
New or revised Occupational Exposure Limits for 2008
WorkSafeBC is requesting stakeholder feedback on new or revised 2008 OELs.
Competition underway - Innovation at Work grants
Innovation at Work grants provide funding for small-scale research projects that promote increased interaction amongst workplace parties, organizations, and/or researchers. A notice of intent is not mandatory and applications will be accepted until 4 p.m. on September 14.
Vancouver Island Safety Conference
Whether you’re working on the shop floor or out in the bush, this October 3 conference will help reinforce your commitment to safety leadership in these very challenging times.
B.C. Municipal Occupational Health and Safety Conference
A forum for governments, municipalities, school boards, and other public sector agencies to exchange success strategies on health and safety issues. It takes place from September 13 -15 in Whistler, B.C.
Increased worker safety the result of resource roads pilot project
Recommendations based on the findings of the Resource Roads Demonstration Project are being released today. The Project focuses on improving worker safety on resource roads in the Prince George forestry region and the oil and gas fields southeast of Fort St. John.
WorkSafe Magazine - July/August
In this issue: safely transporting employees; clearing the air about silicia dust; new and young worker safety checklist; a new device designed to protect workers in manholes; and a pull-out poster on electrical safety for construction sites.
Raise Your Hand campaign re-launches for summer
WorkSafeBC's young worker safety campaign includes live events, social media, and a new web site. Learn more...
Trucking Safety Council to present draft business plan at B.C. town hall meetings
The Trucking Safety Council of BC has developed a draft business plan designed to improve safety in B.C.'s trucking industry. Motor carriers are invited to review and discuss the plan at town hall meetings in June and July.
WorkSafeBC has partnered with Classic Rock 101 to raise awareness about construction-worker safety. Share your safety ideas and you could win some fabulous prizes, including lunch at your worksite with the Rock 101 party crew!
Watch highlights of WorkSafeBC’s Youth Week event held in Richmond, B.C.
Truck safety report examines heavy truck collisions in B.C.
A new report examines the state of safety in B.C.’s trucking industry and identifies key contributing factors to collisions involving heavy trucks on provincial roads.
“Slow down — our parents work here” say children of municipal workers
The City of Vancouver and WorkSafeBC unveil signs that encourage drivers to slow down near public worksites and protect workers from potential injury.
Proposed amendments to policy to adopt an annual classification cycle
The Board of Directors approved the release of a discussion paper with options and draft policy amendments for stakeholder consultation.
It's speeding awareness and enforcement month
WorkSafeBC is partnering with ICBC and the police to remind drivers to slow down on the roads.
Proposed amendments to policy concerning principals’ dividends and assessable payroll
The Board of Directors has approved the release of a discussion paper with options and draft policy amendments for stakeholder consultation.
Call for nominations: BC CSSE Achievement Recognition awards
The Canadian Society of Safety Engineering is calling for nominations for the 2009 Achievement Recognition awards that recognize excellence, professionalism, and expertise in occupational health and safety.
Enter the NAOSH Week awards — everyone’s recognized!
If your organization held events or activities during NAOSH Week this year, enter the NAOSH Week awards to receive a certificate and be entered in a draw to win a prize.
Health Care Provider Conference summary
On May 8, WorkSafeBC’s Health Care Services hosted their fifth annual Health Care Provider Conference. See the conference web site for details and conference presentations.
A systems approach to workplace investigations: Investigating human factors
Join the Lower Mainland Chapter of the Canadian Society of Safety Engineering and a team from WorkSafeBC on June 16 for a professional development afternoon that will explore the human factors involved in investigating workplace accidents.
Short-term average earnings for variable shift workers policy changes
The Board of Directors has approved changes to policy items related to determining short-term average earnings for variable shift workers.
At its meeting on March 25, 2009, the Board of Directors approved a resolution to amend policy
D12-196-6 to clarify which year of assessable payroll is used to calculate an administrative penalty, and to provide for using an estimate of payroll, where necessary, to calculate an administrative penalty.
WorkSafeBC and BC Youth Week focus on young worker safety
WorkSafeBC and the BC Provincial Youth Week Committee are supporting partners at youth events in 12 different communities across the province this week.
Online memorial for the Day of Mourning
In honour of the Day of Mourning on April 28, WorkSafeBC invites you to visit www.dayofmourning.bc.ca and dedicate a flower to a fallen worker. You can also visit our Day of Mourning page to see ceremony details and order decals and posters.
The Board of Directors approved a new policy stating that insurance payments may be considered earnings in the calculation of the short-term average earnings of a worker who participates in a non-WorkSafeBC return to work program and subsequently sustains a work-related injury, provided that payment relates to the work being performed.
WorkSafeBC 2008 penalty report
In 2008, WorkSafeBC imposed 152 penalties totaling more than $2.7 million for violations of the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation and the Workers Compensation Act.
New Board of Directors members appointed
WorkSafeBC Board of Directors Chair Dr. Roslyn Kunin announces the appointment of three new members to WorkSafeBC’s Board of Directors, replacing directors whose terms have concluded.
Revised working alone or in isolation guidelines
Working alone requirements only apply when a worker has been "assigned to work alone or in isolation." Revised guidelines now include a discussion of what it means to be assigned, as well as changes to "late night hours" following proposed amendments to these hours.
Information session on injury prevention and disability management
Long-term care and home care employers and workers are invited to attend this free information session on injury prevention and disability management, taking place on May 27 in Nanaimo, B.C.
Workplace safety and health week celebrated across North America
The North American Occupational Safety and Health Week, from May 3 to 9, is a time for employers, workers, and partners in occupational health and safety to focus on preventing workplace injury and illness.
Students explore careers in heavy construction
Thirty-two Prince George high school students are working on heavy machinery today as part of the Heavy Metal Rocks program.
Fifth Annual Health Care Provider Conference
On Friday, May 8, 2009, WorkSafeBC is hosting the Fifth Annual Health Care Provider Conference at the Hilton Metrotown hotel in Burnaby, B.C.
Thousands to recognize B.C. workers who died on the job
More than 32,000 workers and employers in over 450 worksites across B.C. will be wearing Day of Mourning decals at ceremonies across the province today.
WorkSafeBC’s claims management system is changing
On May 11, 2009, WorkSafeBC will launch a new online Claims Management Solutions (CMS) system to streamline and manage the claims process. Find out how this will affect you.
The North American Occupational Safety and Health Week, from May 3-9, is a time for employers, workers, and partners in occupational health and safety to focus on preventing workplace injury and illness.
WorkSafe Magazine - March/April 2009
In this issue: Hidden truths about asbestos; shift change for school custodians; hiring a construction safety professional; multi-language web portals; and more.
Heavy Metal Rocks comes to Kamloops
Twenty-eight School District No. 73 high school students are working on heavy machinery today as part of the Heavy Metal Rocks program.
Know someone who’s top in their trade?
Did you nominate an outstanding tradesperson or apprentice for a “Top in Trades” award? Winners will be announced on April 17, 2009.
Tourism and hospitality industry programs set to help improve health and safety at work
Hotels, restaurants, pubs, and ski hills in B.C. have a new resource to help reduce injuries and improve workplace safety as go2, B.C.’s tourism and hospitality industry human resources association, launches a new health and safety division.
Human Factors Community of Practice
You're invited to WorkSafeBC's Human Factors Community of Practice meeting on April 2, 2009 in Richmond, B.C.
Proposed policy amendments regarding variable shift workers
The Board of Directors has approved a further round of consultation and the release of a discussion paper with options and proposed policy amendments to stakeholders for comment.
WorkSafe Magazine - January/February 2009
In this issue: Confined spaces; healthy returns; surviving the cold; refusing unsafe work; and more.
WorkSafeBC and Canadian Cancer Society in partnership at home shows across B.C.
WorkSafeBC and the Canadian Cancer Society have partnered to offer information and advice on health and safety issues affecting work, home, and community at the BC Home & Garden Show, February 18 to 22 at BC Place Stadium.
Changes to multiple classification policy
WorkSafeBC’s Board of Directors has approved amendments to the multiple classification policy in the Assessment Manual.
WorkSafeBC speaks your language
WorkSafeBC's new service offers general information and online resources to its Korean speaking customers. This is in addition to simplified Chinese, traditional Chinese, French, Punjabi, Spanish, and Vietnamese pages, which are easily accessible through translated links at the top of the page.
Are you still making excuses for drinking and driving?
WorkSafeBC, in partnership with ICBC, reminds you that if you drink at a holiday party, think twice before driving.
The Policy and Research Division has prepared a draft 2009 – 2011 Compensation, Occupational Disease, and Assessment Policy Priorities Workplan for stakeholder review and comment.
Request for proposals: Focus on Tomorrow
WorkSafeBC invites applications for research project funding as part of its 2009 Focus on Tomorrow research competition.
Resource Roads Demonstration Project to improve worker safety
WorkSafeBC introduces the Resource Roads Safety Demonstration Project — an initiative designed to improve safety for workers who travel along B.C.’s 400,000 kilometers of resource roads.
Coverage for apprentices attending technical training at private training institutions
Individuals registered as apprentices with the Industry Training Authority ("ITA"), attending ITA-approved apprenticeship technical training at ITA-designated private training institutions are covered as workers under the Workers Compensation Act.
WorkSafeBC recognizes construction safety winners
Construction firms are awarded for their innovative efforts in workplace safety as part of the Vancouver Regional Construction Association’s Awards of Excellence.
Real estate licensees who form corporations are required to register with WorkSafeBC
Amendments to the Real Estate Services Regulation which will allow individual real estate licencees to form personal real estate corporations as of January 1, 2009, means some licensees will be required to register with WorkSafeBC.
2009 premium rates to remain among lowest in Canada
Premium rates for B.C. employers will continue to be among the lowest in Canada during 2009.
Online access to CSA Standards referenced in federal, provincial, and territorial OHS Regulations is now available. This two year pilot project has been funded by WorkSafeBC and its partners across Canada, and the Canadian Standards Association.
The Board of Directors has also approved taking to the 2009 public hearing an adjustment to Part 4 relating to working alone or in isolation to harmonize it to the requirements of the Liquor Control and Licensing Regulation: Late night hours will be defined as being between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m., rather than between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.
Also see News Release.
Late Night Retail Provisions Update - September 2008
See recent updates to WorkSafeBC's compliance timelines for the requirement for late night retail premises to have either a second worker during late night hours or a physical barrier or locked door between the worker and the customers.
New options for fuel prepayment outside of urban centres
WorkSafeBC has developed a new OHS Guideline outlining alternative methods for securing payment at gas stations in small, rural or remote locations.
New versions of forms now available
To help simplify claims reporting, WorkSafeBC has released new versions of claim-related forms for reporting a workplace injury or illness.
Notice of Project (Construction) form modified
The Notice of Project for Construction (NOPC) form has been modified to accommodate use of an Assured Grounding Program (AGP) in lieu of Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI) on construction and demolition sites.
New BC Trucking Safety Council aims to reduce trucking incidents
WorkSafeBC and the BC Trucking Association have worked together to create the BC Trucking Safety Council in order to strengthen industry performance and reduce injuries and fatalities.
WorkSafeBC investigates agricultural fatalities
On Friday, September 5th, an incident at an agricultural worksite in Langley claimed the lives of three workers and injured three others. WorkSafeBC officers are investigating this confined space incident...
Proposed policy amendments regarding Variable Shift Workers
The Board of Directors approved the release of a discussion paper with options and proposed policy amendments to stakeholders for comment...
WorkSafeBC’s Partners Program has updated its web site to help B.C. employers discover how they can earn valuable (and recently increased) rebates by practicing good safety management…
Policy Consultation – Workers Participating in Non-WorkSafeBC Return to Work Programs
WorkSafeBC’s governing body, the Board of Directors, has approved the release of a discussion paper with options and proposed policy to stakeholders for comment.
Amended Working Alone or in Isolation Regulations begin February 1st
Amendments to the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation to improve the health and safety of workers that are working alone or in isolation take the effect of law beginning February 1, 2008.
Implementation of new working alone or in isolation provisions
Changes to the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation dealing with working alone and fuel prepayment will become law on February 1, 2008. Those affected by or interested in the changes are encouraged to read the following information.
Download customer notification sign now (PDF 447 KB).
WorkSafeBC speaks your language
WorkSafeBC's new service offers general information and online resources to its Chinese and Punjabi speaking customers. The pages are easily accessible through translated links at the top of the page.
The Construction Safety Association of BC, the Toyota BC Dealers Association, and the BC Construction Association are offering an online contest that tests the construction industry’s safety knowledge. A 2008 Toyota Tundra Truck will be awarded to one lucky entrant. For contest details visit www.csabc.ca
Home Care Providers Information Session
WorkSafeBC and the Health Employers' Association of B.C. are hosting an information session on strategies, tools, and resources that home care providers can use to improve worker safety and claims management. This free session takes place on November 21 in Vancouver, B.C.
B.C. winners in workplace safety and health recognized today
Occupational safety and health awards are being presented to companies and individuals in British Columbia who have demonstrated outstanding performance in workplace health and safety.
Heavy Metal Rocks comes to Kelowna
Twenty-eight School District No. 23 high school students are working on heavy machinery today as part of the Heavy Metal Rocks program.
WorkSafe Magazine – September/October 2008
In this issue: TruckSafe programs continue to pave the way for safer B.C. roads, proper lifting technique, safety records, saw safety, and more.
If you’re employed in the construction industry this conference will help you to search out, expand, and capitalize on learning opportunities in health and safety. It takes place on November 15 in Richmond, B.C.
Vancouver Island Safety Conference
This free conference focuses on the human factors that contribute to incidents in the pulp and paper, wood products manufacturing, and forestry sectors. It takes place on November 1, 2008 in Qualicum Beach.
WorkSafeBC hosts information session on infectious diseases in high-risk communities
On Tuesday, October 14, 2008, WorkSafeBC is hosting a half-day information session on "Infectious Diseases in High Risk Communities" for social service and community care employers and workers. The focus will be on current and emerging trends in treating diseases such as MRSA and TB.
Physician Education Conference
Physicians are invited to the 9th Annual Physician Education Conference in Kelowna, B.C. This CME-accredited event takes place on October 11, 2008.
Join us for WorkSafeBC’s first Human Factors Community of Practice for presentations and discussions on October 2, 2008…
WorkSafe Magazine - July/August 2008
In this issue: Smoke-free workplaces, Carbon monoxide, WHMIS, and more.
WorkSafeBC's Board of Directors approves changes to the Claims Cost Levy Policy
At their meeting on May 28, 2008, the Board of Directors approved a Resolution to harmonize Prevention Policy Item D24-73-1 on claim cost levies with section 73.1 of the Workers Compensation Act.
Upgrades to online clearance letter application released
Upgrades to WorkSafeBC’s online Clearance Letter application have gone live. Beginning today, you’ll notice significant improvements.
WorkSafeBC’s Board of Directors has approved the release of a discussion paper with options and proposed policy amendments to stakeholders for comment.
Changes to WorkSafeBC’s forestry regulations take effect May 1, 2008
The amendments address the changing nature of B.C.'s forest sector, and provide better protection to workers in the areas of supervision and planning, as well as increased safety standards when working in proximity to machinery.
$1,500 up for grabs in CSSE Prevention Solutions Contest
WorkSafeBC, the Canadian Society of Safety Engineering (CSSE), the Workplace Safety & Insurance Board Ontario, and the Safety and Compensation Commission of New Brunswick are accepting entries for the 2008 Prevention Solutions Contest.
"Slow down - our daddy works here" say children of municipal workers
WorkSafeBC, the Township of Langley, and the City of Pitt Meadows unveil signs that encourage drivers to slow down near public work areas so that workers are protected from potential injury.
No more excuses for drinking and driving
Drinking and driving isn’t cool, and neither is making excuses. That’s why WorkSafeBC has joined ICBC in reminding everyone who plans on drinking this summer to also make plans to get home safely.
Rule #101: I’m the Bro, you’re the pro
This summer, Classic Rock 101 and WorkSafeBC are partnering to raise awareness about construction-worker safety in B.C. ― the Bro Jake way. The motto of the Rule #101 campaign is: “I’m the Bro, you’re the pro.”
WorkSafeBC says Project Heavy Duty Is Training Future Industry Leaders
WorkSafeBC and Project Heavy Duty have partnered to give students an opportunity to experience heavy equipment training, a key part of which includes rigorous safety orientation…
WorkSafeBC presents three new videos that illustrate the hazards of working alone in the community with aggressive and potentially violent patients, patient handling activities, and needle use. Each video segment portrays situations care workers might encounter on the job.
Employers want to know what’s required by provincial/federal WHMIS legislation, whether they must purchase workplace training from companies/businesses offering these services to be in compliance, and if WorkSafeBC endorses training provided by these companies/businesses.
Dr. Roslyn Kunin has been appointed chair of WorkSafeBC’s Board of Directors, succeeding Douglas Enns. Dr. Kunin has been a director, serving as a public interest representative, for nearly six years, and more recently as vice chair…
Ad campaign urges forestry workers to stay focused on the job
WorkSafeBC has partnered with the Safety / Health Awareness Research Program (SHARP), United Steelworkers, and BC Forestry Safety Council to produce a TV ad urging forestry workers in B.C.’s Interior to stay safe on the job by focusing on the task at hand.
New ad campaign reminds people to “think twice before lifting once”
For a second year, WorkSafeBC and the BC Chiropractic Association have partnered to create an ad campaign designed to raise awareness about back health.
Orienting, training and supervising young workers key to preventing injury
In 2007, six young BC workers (aged 15 - 24) died while working as a deck hand, a quarry truck driver, a diamond driller, a labourer, a mill worker and a diver ...
WorkSafeBC and Oil and Gas work together to reduce injuries
While B.C.’s petroleum industry’s injury rate is about one-half the provincial rate, the problem with the severity and duration of injuries to oil and gas workers must be addressed. This assessment came from WorkSafeBC prior to the Petroleum Safety Conference, May 6-9 in Banff.
Information session: How to safely move bariatric patients
WorkSafeBC is hosting an information session on strategies and equipment required to safely transport, lift, and move bariatric patients (weighing 100+ lbs over their ideal body weight) within and between healthcare facilities …
Information session: Violence in high-risk communities
WorkSafeBC is hosting a half-day information session on violence in high-risk communities for social service and community care employers and workers …
Board of Directors’ Decision on Loss of Earnings Section 251 Referral
At its meeting on March 19, 2008, the Board of Directors made a decision that policy item #40.00 of the Rehabilitation Services and Claims Manual, Vol. II, is supported by the Workers Compensation Act and that the WCAT must apply it. The Board of Directors’ decision letter is available for review.
The Board of Directors approved public hearings in May-June 2008 for proposed amendments to the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation.
The North American Occupational Safety and Health Week, May 4-10, is a time for employers, workers, and partners in occupational health and safety to focus on preventing workplace injury and illness. Find out how…
Amended Working Alone or in Isolation Regulations begin February 1st
Amendments to the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation to improve the health and safety of workers that are working alone or in isolation take the effect of law beginning February 1, 2008.