Creating a Health and Safety Program for Your Workplace
Health and safety programs are an excellent way for employers to be proactive in creating safe working conditions. These programs help prevent accidents in the workplace and provide companies with a response plan, should they occur.
In Newfoundland and Labrador, the government states that businesses with ten or more employees must have an Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) program. OHS programs help to manage health and safety issues in the workplace. They prevent injury, illness and property damage and decrease the associated human and financial costs. The province believes that these programs help to create a positive health and safety culture.
Employer Responsibilities
Health and safety programs promote the health and safety of employees. To ensure they are effective in doing so, there are requirements imposed on employers under the Occupational Health and Safety Act with respect to health and safety programs. The province subscribes to the idea of an Internal Responsibility System (IRS), where everyone from employer to employee is responsible for safety in the workplace. However, employers hold the most responsibility.
Some of these responsibilities include:
- Establishing either an OHS Committee or appointing a health and safety representative or designate.
- Maintain a healthy and safe workplace through the upkeep of systems, equipment, and tools.
- Give instruction, training, information, and supervision (i.e. OHS information and guidance on health and safety legislation).
- Ensure workers are aware of hazards.
- Respond in writing to the OHS committee, rep or designate’s recommendations. Along with periodic updates on how their recommendations are being enacted.
- Ensure safety equipment is being used and that safety procedures are being followed.
- Notify the Assistant Deputy Minister responsible for OHS when serious accidents occur.
The ten key elements of an OHS program in Newfoundland & Labrador
In Newfoundland & Labrador, health and safety programs are guided by ten key elements.
They are as follows:
- Leadership and Administration
- OHS Committee
- Education and Training
- Communication
- Safe Work Practices and Procedures
- Hazard Recognition, Evaluation and Control
- Workplace Inspections
- Incident Investigations
- Emergency Preparedness
- Disability Management
Let us help you create or review your health and safety program. Give us a call today!
In addition to these health and safety requirements, there are other compliance measures your business should consider. Health & Safety Help is here to support you in this. If you need more information on building your workplace safety policy, details on any occupational health and safety issues, or just have a question, please call us today at 1-888-207-0657.