Serious OHS Investigations

DATE: June 29, 2022

TIME: 9:00AM-10:30AM PT

SPEAKER: Andrew Wood, Harris & Company LLP

 

Serious OHS Investigations

The occurrence of a serious workplace injury or fatality is the worst moment in any safety professional’s career. Such events occur without warning but require the safety professional to respond promptly and in a well thought-out manner in emotionally charged circumstances.

This presentation will highlight key legal and strategic considerations when responding to serious workplace incidents, including:

  • satisfying your statutory obligations under the BC Workers Compensation Act;
  • carrying out the employer’s investigation;
  • responding to investigations by police, WorkSafeBC and other agencies;
  • retaining experts/advisors; supporting persons impacted by the incident; and
  • responding to inquiries from the press and other third parties.

 

SPEAKER BIO

Andrew C. Wood

Andy’s practice focus is occupational health and safety (OHS) law. He provides strategic advice and representation to employers on issues relating to the Workers Compensation Act, the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation, the Canada Labour Code, and associated federal OHS regulations. He is especially skilled at working on matters regarding serious injuries and fatalities, including advising clients on crisis management and how to avoid administrative penalties and prosecutions in such serious cases. Andy has advised employers in over 40 cases involving workplace fatalities.

Andy has represented both provincially and federally regulated public and private sector employers involved in a wide range of activities, including local government, education, hospitality, insurance, forestry, mining, construction, manufacturing, maritime, utilities, transportation, warehousing and distribution, property management, retail, healthcare, and the arts.