Health & Safety

The Right to Know

The Right to Know is one of your most basic workplace health and safety rights. The Right extends to many aspects of your work life that can include, but is not limited to the use of machinery and equipment, working conditions, proper procedures, hazardous substances, and more.

Your employer should ensure all employees are informed through:

• Information about the hazards of the work they are performing.

• Training to do all aspects of the work in a healthy and safe way.

• Competent supervision to ensure a safe and healthy workplace.

In all cases, if your workplace training leaves you with questions or concerns, do not sign off on the training. Ask questions and if you are still not sure, contact your Steward, JHSC Member or Union Rep immediately.

Regulation 297 of the Occupational Health & Safety Act (the Act) requires employers to provide basic health and safety training for all new hires as soon as possible. It also requires employers to ensure its supervisors complete training as well, so they understand their responsibilities under the Act.

Regulation 895 deals with the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information Systems (WHMIS). It requires employers to provide information and training to employees who may be exposed to hazardous materials in the course of their work.

Violence & Harassment

Another important aspect of workplace health and safety is ensuring an environment free from violence and harassment. Part III of the Act requires every workplace to have a violence and harassment policy. The employer must provide annual training and review the policy with employees so they understand their rights. Whether an incident(s) arises between employees or between a customer and employee, the employer must protect or assist its employees in all circumstances.

If you are aware of or have concerns about workplace violence, harassment, bullying, or physical, emotional, or mental abuse, report it to your employer's human resources department and contact your Steward and/or JHSC Member and Union Rep immediately.