STARTING YOUR HEALTH AND SAFETY PROGRAM
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100-CAG-01-IGDO © 2025, Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS)
1 877 494 WSPS (9777) | 905 614 1400 | WSPS.CA
Working Conditions Assessment
A sound knowledge and evaluation of all workplace conditions is the basis for controlling health and
safety hazards. Thorough and periodic workplace inspections are necessary to ensure safe workplace
conditions and, consequently, safe operations. Also assess the impact of any proposed changes in
process, equipment or materials.
Assess all solvents, raw materials, and other chemicals for potential hazards. Ensure that safety data
sheets (SDSs) are obtained from suppliers and that all containers of hazardous materials are properly
labelled. Identify all processes that have the potential to generate fumes, gases, mists, dusts and vapours,
noise and heat or cold.
Rate all identified hazards based on severity (major, moderate or minor), and probability of injury or loss
(high, medium or low). This will enable you to establish a priority for the action needed to eliminate or
minimize hazards. A Workplace Hazard Assessment Form may be created for this purpose.
Hazard Control
Control is best achieved by engineering controls (e.g., removal/elimination of a hazard) and
administrative systems (e.g., job rotation, etc.). Take into account all relevant regulations and codes
(e.g., machine guarding, noise control, hazardous materials control, the Ontario Fire Code, etc.), and any
applicable standards, manufacturers' specifications and industry codes of practice.
Integrate safe working practices into all jobs or operating procedures. Draw up a set of general health
and safety rules to be followed by all employees. Keep these to a minimum, communicate them clearly,
and they will have a better chance of being understood by everyone.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
In an emergency or where controls fail, the use of personal protective equipment will offer protection
against or reduce the effects of an accident. Use surveys and records to determine areas of need. Ensure
that equipment meets established standards. Provide training in the selection, use, care and limitations of
the equipment.
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