LAWS & ANNOUNCEMENTS

Fire Safety

Aug 11: The combination of hot dry weather and raging forest fires forced PEI to impose a fire closure order banning all campfires, bonfires and other fires in the province until further notice. Violators face the risk of fines up to $50,000, criminal costs to victims and liability for all damages arising from the fire.

Action Point: Find out how to implement a Wildfire Smoke Protection Game Plan to guard your workers against smoke exposure, both indoors and outdoors.

Fire Safety

Aug 2: PEI published amendments to Fire Safety Act regulations banning the charging, filling, inspection, maintenance, recharging, refilling or testing of portable fire extinguishers unless the person is certified to ULC Standard S532 and meets other requirements for portable fire extinguisher servicing listed in the regulations. Servicers must furnish proof of certification to a Fire Marshall, if requested.

Action Point: Find out how to implement a legally sound and effective Portable Fire Extinguisher Compliance Game Plan at your workplace.

Emergency Preparedness

Aug 7: PEI announced that it will allocate approximately $1.4 million of the money it received from the federal government for Hurricane Fiona recovery for the purchase of supplies and infrastructure to benefit local emergency preparedness and response efforts across the province, including 9 large capacity generators for designated emergency sites and over 50 shelter kit pallet boxes for municipal and community reception centres.

New Laws

Aug 7: PEI renewed its 2-year funding agreement with Women’s Network PEI for a program to help diversify the province’s workforce in the trades and technology fields. The Trades HERizons program focuses on introducing participants to opportunities in trades and technology, while building essential skills, fostering personal growth, and guiding meaningful career development.

Workers’ Comp

Aug 25: Comments close on the PEI WCB’s consultations on proposed changes to its policy (Special Equipment and Home Modifications (POL–131)) on the eligibility and coverage requirements injured workers must meet to get benefits covering the costs of special equipment and home modifications necessary to enable them to safely access and use areas of their homes.

Environmental

Jul 19: Effective today, beverage container producers and retailers are not allowed to sell, offer for sale or distribute a beverage container in or into PEI unless they or an agent operates a beverage container stewardship program covering it.

CASES

There are no cases to mention this month.