The legalization of recreational cannabis has given new life to an ongoing workplace concern: how to reduce the risk of impairment. Acute effects include diminished mental alertness, physical coordination, reaction time, sustained vigilance, manual dexterity and judgment — all essential requirements for working safely and productively, says WSPS Consultant Kristin Oronato.
 

Interviewing witnesses to a critical injury is central to your accident investigation, but they may be experiencing shock, disbelief, emotional numbness and other symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). How do you show respect for traumatized witnesses but still uncover the facts you need to file your report with the Ministry of Labour and prevent a similar incident from happening in the future? 
 

Failing to address an employee’s repeated complaints of abusive and harassing behaviour at the hands of a co-worker has cost an employer over $200,000 in penalties levied by an Ontario Superior Court judge. “We can’t ignore inappropriate behaviours,” says WSPS Strategy Advisor Andrew Harkness. “Financially and emotionally it’s too costly for everyone involved — employers, employees, even their families.” 
 

Thorough orientation is critical to keeping new and young workers safe on the job, says WSPS Account Manager Charmaine Mitchell. Ministry of Labour (MOL) inspectors will be looking for proof it’s been delivered during focused workplaces inspections that began on July 15 and will continue until August 30.