Guides & Toolkits

www.tiaontario.ca www.wsps.ca 31 Avoid having to enter alleys or other secluded places to empty garbage at night Acknowledge every person who enters the store Keep windows clear of posters and other visual obstructions Train employees how to respond to an emergency when they are working alone Ensure all tasks and equipment involved can be safely handled by one worker. electrical Contact Anything electrical offers the threat of electrocution. Tourism and hospitality employees are at increased risk because of their fast-paced working environment-with liquid spills and splashes. There are many things that can be done to minimize the risk: Maintain equipment, with regular inspections and repairs Provide training on safe use Provide appropriate personal protective equipment Keep the areas clean and dry around machines at all times to prevent electrical hazards Workplace Violence and Harassment Workplace violence and harassment represents a particular hazard to the tourism and hospitality sector. Businesses in the tourism & hospitality sector can be vulnerable targets, particularly when employees can be exposed to emotionally-charged situations with unhappy guests or visitors, or unwelcome attention from members of the public. In Ontario, employers are required to have a workplace violence policy and program, as well as a workplace harassment policy and program. It is acceptable to roll your workplace violence and harassment policies into your overall occupational health & safety policy statement, and must include: Your commitment to protecting employees from workplace violence and harassment Address violence and harassment from all possible sources (customers, guests, visitors, suppliers, employers, supervisors, employees, members of the public and domestic/intimate partners) Outline the roles and responsibilities of the workplace parties in supporting the policy and program Be dated and signed by the highest level of management at the workplace You must undertake a risk assessment that considers: The potential for violence and harassment based on the nature of the workplace, the type of work or the work conditions The circumstances of the workplace and of similar workplaces The measures and procedures that will control the risks that have been identified There are a number of circumstances that may increase the risk of violence or harassment in your workplace: Handling cash Protecting or securing valuables Transporting people and goods A mobile workplace (such as a vehicle) Public or community contact Working with unstable or volatile people Working alone or with just a few people Working late nights or very early mornings Serving alcoholic beverages to customers Involve your employees in creating a program that reflects the unique needs of your workplace. Step 4: Health & Safety in Action

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