Notice requirements for reporting workplace incidents in Manitoba 

Following a serious incident which results in injury or illness, an employer is legally obligated to contact the Workplace Safety and Health Branch (WSH) as quickly as possible. 

Following the incident, the following procedures must be followed: 

  • The scene of the incident must be left alone until the WSH has been contacted. 
  • If the WSH requires it, you must preserve the scene of the incident for at least 24 hours. 
  • You must not alter or move any equipment or materials at the incident scene. 
  • The workplace must conduct an internal investigation in coordination with the workplace safety and health committee co-chairs. 
  • If you are unsure about whether or not an incident which took place in your workplace should be reported, contact the WSH. 

When reporting an incident to the WSH, there is certain information that you must provide. Such as the name and address of those involved in the incident, the employer(s) involved, the date, time, and location of the incident and the suspected cause of the incident. 

What is considered a serious incident? 

The Workplace Safety and Health Regulation define a serious incident as one where a worker is killed. 

The Act also considers an incident serious if a worker suffers from any of the following: 

  • An injury caused by contact with electricity. 
  • A Concussion leading to unconsciousness. 
  • A skull, spine, pelvis, arm, leg, hand, foot, finger, or toe fracture. 
  • Third-degree burns. 
  • Loss of sight – either temporary or permanent. 
  • A cut or laceration that requires medical treatment at a hospital (in accordance with The Health Services Insurance Act). 
  • Asphyxiation or poisioning. 

If an incident involves any of the following, it is considered serious: 

  • A structural failure of a building, structure, crane, hoist, lift, temporary support system or excavation. 
  • An explosion, fire or flood, an uncontrolled spill or escape of a hazardous substance. 
  • The failure of an atmosphere-supplying respirator.

Still need help? 

If you require further assistance understanding what is expected of you for reporting workplace incidents. Call Health & Safety Help today at 1 (204) 201-1614 to speak with an expert.