October 05, 2026
Worker Rights
Do you know your rights as a worker? As a worker in PEI, you have: The right to know about health and safety issues in your workplace. The right to participate in keeping the workplace safe. The right to refuse unsafe or unhealthy work. If you believe a task or situation is dangerous, report it to your supervisor immediately and go to a safe space in the workplace. Understanding your rights and responsibilities is an important part of creating safer workplaces. Learn more about the work refusal process.
October 01, 2026
2026 Safe Youth Award recipients make safety their first move
The Workers Compensation Board (WCB) has named Elly Smallwood and Tanner MacLean as the recipients of the 2026 Safe Youth Award. Presented annually, the award recognizes two young workers in Prince Edward Island who have shown a strong commitment to understanding and applying Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) principles in their workplaces. Each recipient receives a $1,000 cash prize in recognition of their achievement. Elly Smallwood, a labourer at John’s Greenhouses, is the recipient in the 15–19-year age category. She prioritizes safety in her workplace by identifying and addressing potential hazards, communicating safety concerns to her employers, and asking questions when she is uncertain about her tasks. Elly consistently applies OHS principles and says that her safety-focused and supportive workplace helped her to build skills and confidence. The Safe Youth Award recipient in the 20–24-year age category is Tanner MacLean, who works as warehouse support at Kays Wholesale. Tanner demonstrates a strong understanding of OHS principles through the consistent use of proper personal protective equipment (PPE) and safe operation of workplace equipment. Tanner is also a supportive team member who teaches others how to perform tasks in a safe manner. "I'm really grateful to be recognized for working safely on the job,” Tanner said. “I’m happy to accept this award and I appreciate the support from my workplace." “Congratulations to Elly Smallwood and Tanner MacLean, our 2026 Safe Youth Award recipients,” said Danny Miller, WCB’s Director of Occupational Health and Safety. “Across the Island, there are so many young workers like Elly and Tanner, who are making safety their first move each day. In doing so, they’re helping strengthen PEI’s workplace safety culture today, and carrying that commitment forward throughout their working lives.” To learn more about the Safe Youth Award, access WCB resources, or register for fall workplace health and safety education sessions, please visit wcb.pe.ca . The WCB serves close to 6,800 employers and over 92,000 workers throughout Prince Edward Island. It partners with employers and workers in building safe and healthy workplaces and supports recovery, if an injury occurs, through the administration of the Workers Compensation Act and the Occupational Health and Safety Act. Any serious work-related injuries and explosions must be reported immediately by calling the 24-hour Occupational Health and Safety Emergency Line at 902-628-7513. -30- For more information, contact WCB Marketing and Communications at news@wcb.pe.ca or 902-388-8671. Aussi disponible en français.
