Health & Safety Policies - Who needs them?

There are several reasons for Canadian organizations to have a health & Safety policy. 

1. It is a requirement under the Health & Safety Act that employers prepare and review a written occupational Health & Safety Policy at least once a year. Furthermore, employers must develop and maintain a program to implement that policy. [Occupational Health and Safety Act, Section 25 (2)(j)]
2. A Health & Safety Policy reinforces the company's commitment to their workers' health and safety.
3. An effective Health & Safety Policy establishes a process to correct Health & Safety concerns and as a result, can enhance the relationship between management and labour within the workplace.

A good Health & Safety Policy should clearly and concisely outline the management's commitment, support and attitude to the health and safety program for the protection of workers. The policy should be signed off by the highest management personnel in the organization, thus proving senior management commitment to Health & Safety within the workplace.
 

1. Prepare a written occupational health and safety policy
2. Review the policy at least annually
3. Post it in a conspicuous and accessible location in the workplace
4. Develop and maintain a program to implement that policy

A Health & Safety program implements the organization's Health & Safety Policy.  The program depends entirely on the organization and the type of work that it conducts.

The list below identifies some key areas that most organizations should cover in their Health & Safety Program.  Please note however that requirements vary and therefore this list should be viewed as a guideline and not as definitive.

• Health & Safety Policy
• Hazard Assessment, Analysis & Control
• Safe Work Practices
• Company Health & Safety Rules
• Personal Protective Equipment
• Tool and Equipment Maintenance
• Training, Orientation & Communications
• Workplace Inspections
• Accident Investigation & Reporting
• Emergency Preparedness
• Statistics & Records
• Legislation
• WHMIS & Occupational Health
• First Aid
• Joint Health & Safety Committee
• Health & Safety Rep
• Return to Work
• Health & Safety Resources on the Web
   

F.A.S.T. Rescue can develop your Health and Safety Manual.  Our manuals are completely customized for your organization. As your company's safety mission statement, it outlines your entire safety program as required by federal regulations. For further information, click here.