Are you ready for the big changes in Alberta’s health and safety laws? The new Occupational Health and Safety Act (New OHS Act) started on December 1, 2021. Employers and workers in Alberta need to keep up to stay safe and avoid fines.
The New OHS Act makes the language easier to understand. It also removes old rules to keep worker rights strong. Laws like the Administrative Penalty Regulation and the Radiation Protection Act will change, with their rules now part of the New Act.
One big change is the new rule for noise levels. Now, employers must check noise levels at 82 decibels, down from 85. Also, blaster’s certificates won’t expire after five years anymore. Mining companies must update their plans more often, and oil and gas workers need a special orientation before starting work.
Employers and suppliers must keep records of equipment checks and repairs. New rules for personal protective equipment (PPE) will affect many parts of the Occupational Health and Safety Code. It’s very important for everyone to know about these changes to keep workplaces safe and avoid fines.
Understanding the Recent Changes to Alberta’s Occupational Health and Safety Legislation
Alberta’s workplace safety rules are changing with Bill 47, the Ensuring Safety and Cutting Red Tape Act, 2020. It’s important for employers and workers to know about these updates. This ensures they follow the law and keep workplaces safe. The changes to the Occupational Health and Safety Act will start on December 1, 2021, with big updates.
Bill 47: Ensuring Safety and Cutting Red Tape Act, 2020
Bill 47 aims to make Alberta’s workplace safety laws clearer and simpler. It keeps worker rights strong while making rules easier to understand. The new law will replace the old one on December 1, 2021, with some parts not starting right away.
Key Changes to Definitions and Terms
The new law changes some key terms. It introduces the “OHS Director” role and calls contractors “contracting employers.” Self-employed people are now seen as employers, just like others. The new rules also make it clearer what “regularly employs” means and what personal protective equipment is needed.
Implications for Employers and Workers
Employers and workers need to understand Bill 47’s changes to stay safe and legal. Employers don’t have to train workers before they start a job, but they must report and investigate serious health issues. Workers can say no to dangerous work. Employers with 20 or more workers still need to have a health and safety plan, but the details are simpler now.
By keeping up with these changes, everyone can focus on safety at work. For more help, check out COR certification training from trusted sources.
Health and Safety Representatives, Committees, and Programs
Alberta has updated its Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) laws. These changes affect health and safety committees and representatives on sites with more than one employer. The goal is to make workplaces safer for everyone and make things easier for employers.
If you work or own a business in Alberta, it’s important to know about these updates. They can change how your workplace operates.
Requirements for Multi-Employer Work Sites
Now, a prime contractor is needed on any work site in Alberta, not just in oil and gas or construction. If there’s no prime contractor, health and safety teams are still needed. Employers with 20 or more workers must have a health and safety committee.
Those with 5-19 workers need to appoint a health and safety representative. Joint health and safety committees (JHSCs) must have two co-chairs and at least four members. The number of management members should not be more than the number of worker members.
Training Requirements for Committee Members and Representatives
Training for committee members and representatives has become more flexible. Employers must make sure members get the right training. Some areas even pay workers to attend meetings and training.
Workers in Alberta have three main rights. They have the right to know about dangers, the right to say no to unsafe work, and the right to help with health and safety in their workplace.
Modified Requirements for Farms and Ranches
Farms and ranches have new training rules for committees and representatives. But, they are still not covered by the OHS Code. On March 31st, 2023, Alberta’s OHS Code was updated. Eight parts were changed, including rules for overhead power lines, oil and gas wells, and managing hazardous energy.
By keeping up with these changes, employers and workers can help make Alberta’s workplaces safer and healthier.
how to keep up to date with health and safety legislation in Alberta
Keeping up with Alberta’s health and safety laws is key for employers and workers. It helps them follow the rules and keep workplaces safe. With laws changing, it’s important to stay informed about new updates.
Monitoring Legislative Changes and Updates
Checking official government sites, like the Alberta Labour and Immigration website, is a good start. Employers should also sign up for OHS bulletins from regulators. These bulletins often share news about upcoming law changes.
For example, the Alberta OHS e-bulletin on April 17, 2020, linked to a paper by the Alberta Construction Association. It was about handling the COVID-19 virus.
Attending Occupational Health and Safety Training and Seminars
Going to health and safety training and seminars is very helpful. They teach about the practical side of new laws and how to use them in work. Topics include hazard checks, WHMIS rules, and PPE use.
By attending these, employers can make sure their workers are trained to do their jobs safely. This follows the latest rules.
Consulting with Legal Professionals Specializing in Workplace Safety Compliance
Talking to legal experts in workplace safety can offer tailored advice. They help ensure employers follow the law. These experts check policies and suggest ways to improve.
By getting professional help, employers can tackle any issues early. This reduces the chance of breaking health and safety rules.
Adapting Your Workplace Policies and Procedures to Comply with the New Legislation
In Alberta, employers must update their workplace rules to meet the new Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Act. This means doing a detailed risk check to find and fix hazards. By making these changes, you show you care about your workers’ safety and keep them safe from harm.
The New Act requires employers with 20 or more workers to have a health and safety program. If there are many employers at a site, they must work together on safety. This ensures everyone follows the OHS rules. A good health and safety program helps everyone understand the importance of safety.
Every workplace must do hazard checks and control them. Employers must work with workers and the Health and Safety Committee to find and fix hazards. They should use engineering, administrative controls, and personal protective equipment. Also, training programs help employees do their jobs safely.
Employers must keep workers, the public, and others safe at work. Keeping up with Alberta’s OHS changes helps you create a safe work place. This way, you ensure everyone’s safety and follow the rules.
