WCB Announces Amendments to Occupational Health and Safety Act - January 2001

The Workers Compensation Board of Prince Edward Island looks forward to improved workplace health and safety with the amendments to the Occupational Health and Safety Act recently proclaimed by the PEI Legislature. This new legislation provides a framework for WCB, workers, employers, educators and the general public to work together to foster a greater understanding of workplace health and safety issues and, in turn, create safer, healthier workplaces for Islanders.

The amendments were developed as a result of the work of an Occupational Health and Safety Review Committee. Don MacCormac, Chair of the Committee, said “workplace injuries and illnesses continue to take a heavy toll on employees despite the fact that workplaces and technology have changed dramatically. E.g., in PEI, as in the rest of Canada, youth continue to have the highest incidence of accidents and injuries. Studies show that one in five young Islanders are likely to be injured at work. Therefore, it is essential that young workers become more knowledgeable about safety in the workplace. The new legislation will help accomplish this goal by requiring safety training as part of the curriculum of trade courses. Holland College and schools defined in the Private Training Schools Act will teach principles of Occupational Health and Safety in order to better prepare individuals for the workforce.”

George Stewart, Director of Occupational Health and Safety with Workers Compensation Board, explained that “the amendments to the Occupational Health and Safety legislation is the first step dealing with issues about health and safety in the workplace. The amendments foster the development of an internal responsibility system. E.g., workplaces with more than 20 employees are required to have a recognized joint health and safety committee and must develop an occupational health and safety program. The safety program will identify hazards that exist in the workplace and help to eliminate or minimize that risk. It also includes the development of workplace inspections and accident investigation procedures.”

“Another key amendment to the Act is the creation of an Occupational Health and Safety Advisory Council which will provide advice to the WCB and government on OH & S throughout the province,” said Stewart. “Also, to assist workplace parties in understanding the principles of the Act and the amendments, the O H & S division have developed a guide to the Act,” he added.

The Hon. Jim Lee, Chair of Workers Compensation Board, stated “only through increased attention to safety will we be able to prevent accidents and reduce costs for workers and employers. The new amendments to the Occupational Health and Safety legislation will help us achieve these goals by developing a workplace culture where safety is way of life.” The Workers Compensation Board of PEI is dedicated to promoting workplace health and safety for the workers and employers of this province.

For more information contact Mark Barrett:

Tel: (902) 894-0362
Email: mabarrett@wcb.pe.ca