warning

Whats the big deal? Just more Canadian legal Mumbo Jumbo? Think again!

Here is the way I see it:

These Recently-passed changes to the Canadian Criminal Code will hold ALL organizations and individuals criminally liable if they fail to take reasonable steps to prevent workplace accidents.

Were you too busy to bother with a safety meeting last month? Easy to justify, and besides, your employees have been doing this stuff for years and they know what their doing…..That wont cut it anymore.

If you don't remind them and point out the possible hazards, you are at fault for not following the rules. Do they all have fall protection and Whmis training? Did you do a workplace hazard analysis? Are they formally trained in manlift equipment? Hilti ticket? First aid? Electrical Safety Act? Ever work on stuff hot? Failing to do any of this may lead to criminal charges against you. Ignoring any may mean you did not exercise due diligence and are responsible.

You could lose everything just because you didn't have a safety meeting with the one guy who works for you. Also, if you are directing other workers such as a journeyman directing an apprentice, you could be in the same position! It could be as simple as someone falling off a ladder and you could end up in serious trouble if you didn't explain the hazards of working on ladders! Think your just a little company and the cost of all this will be too high? Better look at what it will cost if you don't do it! Its not just the Company that gets fined any more!
Here are some links to Bill C-45 that you had better read and make your own conclusions!