Working in the cold is part of the job for many Prince Edward Islanders. Workers performing tasks outside in winter or working in cold storage areas can be at risk. Cold stress can occur when the body is exposed to excessive cold or wet conditions. …

Law of the Year
Distracted Driving
As of April 1, Yukon drivers must stay off their cell phones while driving or face a $250 fine. The ban bars drivers from talking or texting with their handheld cell phones or other messaging devices while they’re operating a motor …

Law of the Year

OHS Review
In July, the Saskatchewan government announced a general timeline and process for its review of OHS administration, which was expected to conclude with the Council’s presentation of its report to the Minister of Labour Relations and Workplace Safety on Nov. …

Law of the Year
OHS Fines
On Jan. 1, 2011, the fines for OHS violations increased again after being doubled on July 1, 2010. In addition, repeat violations can now be penalized more harshly.
 
Case of the Year

Landscaper Found Guilty of Criminal Negligence in Worker’s Death
The Court …

Law of the Year
Workplace Violence
In Aug., the WCB has revised its Guide to the Prevention of Workplace Violence and Guide to Working Alone Regulations, which provide information on what the law requires, including risk assessments, resources for developing policies and procedures, and practical tips.
 
Other Notable …

Law of the Year
Bill 160
As part of a drive to reform Ontario’s OHS system, Bill 160, officially named the Occupational Health and Safety Statute Law Amendment Act, 2011, got Royal Assent on June 1. The heart of Bill 160 is the creation of the Chief …

OHS Regulation
The government extended the deadline for comments on the new OHS Regulations to Jan. 10, 2011. A digest of this feedback is now available. Forty-eight stakeholders provided approximately 750 comments.

Law of the Year

OHS Fines
A bill that increased fines for OHS violations for the first time since 1996 took effect on May 19. The maximum fine is now $250,000 for a first offence but rises to $500,000 for additional offences within five years. In addition, …

Law of the Year
Distracted Driving
The NWT legislature passed a bill amending the Motor Vehicles Act to make it illegal to text or talk on hand-held devices while driving. The law, which lets people drive with hands-free devices used in a hands-free manner, takes effect Jan. …

Enforcement efforts, prosecutions and coroner’s inquests all can lead to recommendations for the implementation of new controls contained in the hierarchy and, in some cases, may lead to changes in the way we work as safety practitioners or the development of new standards or laws. In fact, we have a tremendous opportunity to change the very Social Context of Control by enhancing our communications about tragic workplace events and influencing needed change in society as a whole.