The Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training, and Skills Development (MLITSD) is seeking feedback from workplaces on two potential additions to the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA):
Heat Stress: Proposed New Regulation Consultation
The MLITSD is proposing a stand-alone heat stress regulation under the OHSA. This new regulation would apply to all workplaces that fall under the OHSA. These new regulations would:
- Introduce heat stress exposure limits based on the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) method.
- Provide for the use of other methods to assess a worker’s risk of exposure to heat stress.
- Require employers to identify and implement measures and procedures to control heat exposures based on the “hierarchy of controls”.
- Require employers to provide workers with information and instruction on recognizing the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses and the measures to protect themselves.
The MLITSD is asking workplaces for comments and feedback about the anticipated costs and benefits of implementing these proposed amendments. Comments are due by September 18, 2023.
Find out more about the consultation & submit feedback.
Poor Outdoor Air Quality and Workplace Health & Safety Consultation
Currently, the OHSA does not specifically address poor outdoor air quality. Under the OHSA, employers have a general duty to take every precaution reasonable in the circumstances for the protection of a worker, including protecting workers from the hazards associated with poor outdoor air.
The MLITSD is seeking feedback from businesses on whether poor outdoor air quality is an issue for them, and if the OHSA and/or its regulations may need to be changed. Comments are due by September 18, 2023.
Find out more about the consultation & submit feedback.
Posted August 2, 2023
