In Ontario, the short answer is “yes”. Under the Ontario Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) employers must ensure there is a Health and Safety Representative (HSR) in the workplace where 6 or more workers
Effective June 1, 2023, the OHSA legislative amendment will require high-risk employers to ensure their workplaces are equipped with life-saving naloxone kits and workers are trained on how to administer them. This change hopes to raise awareness around the ongoing opioid crisis, reduce stigma for those struggling with addictions, and ultimately save lives.
Workplace investigations are a legislated requirement for Ontario employers. All workers are entitled to a safe and healthy workplace and employers have an obligation to investigate any incidents or complaints of workplace violence and harassment.
Let’s take a closer look specifically at two scenarios arising for employers and employees that are continuing to work at their workplaces. Firstly, employees are not wanting to work because they feel that their employer is not keeping them safe. Secondly, employees are not wanting to work because they don’t feel comfortable in general about Covid-19.
A recent Ministry of Labour (MOL) report states that small employers have a general lack of awareness and understanding of their requirements under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) and its regulations.
It can be overwhelming for small to medium sized business owners to stay current on legislative requirements when it seems that there are new or updated standards, programs, regulations and blitzes every month.
