When you’re starting to drown between employee concerns, payroll duties and helping your CEO -- HR Insider is there to help get the logistical work out of the way.
Need a policy because of a recent regulatory change? We’ve got it for you. Need some quick training on a specific HR topic? We’ve got it for you. HR Insider provides the resources you need to craft, implement and monitor policies with confidence. Our team of experts (which includes lawyers, analysts and HR professionals) keep track of complex legislation, pending changes, new interpretations and evolving case law to provide you with the policies and procedures to keep you ahead of problems. FIND OUT MORE...
Canadian OHS Professionals – Wildfire Alert and Employer Responsibilities

The 2025 wildfire season is officially under way, with the first major blaze igniting in mid-May and over 100 active wildfires burning nationwide by the end of the month. As of May 28, there are approximately 1,267 fires scorching more than 283,000 hectares, and nearly 21,000 people have been evacuated across Canada.

In Manitoba, five fires were classified as out of control in mid-May, including a massive 100,000 ha fire north of Whiteshell Provincial Park and a 42,000-ha blaze in the northwest. These infernos forced the evacuation of roughly 1,000 residents from Lac du Bonnet and contributed to a total of about 17,000 evacuees in northern Manitoba alone.

Employer Responsibilities
Under provincial and federal OHS laws, employers must:

  • Assess wildfire and smoke hazards as part of your job hazard analysis.
  • Implement safe work procedures to limit exposure to smoke, heat, and fire.
  • Provide and maintain respiratory protection (e.g., N95 respirators) when air quality deteriorates.
  • Train workers on emergency plans, safe work procedures, and PPE use before the wildfire season intensifies.
  • Review and update your emergency response plans to address wildfires, ensuring drills cover evacuation routes, communication protocols, and accommodations for vulnerable workers.

Key Resources
To help you prepare, respond, and comply, OHS Insider offers comprehensive guides and tools. Please review:

Wildfire-Specific Guidance

Additional Emergency Planning Resources

Please ensure these resources are incorporated into your site-specific safety plans, training sessions, and emergency drills. Stay vigilant—wildfire conditions can change rapidly, and a well-prepared workplace is the best defense for your team.