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| Michelle Ann Zoleta |
April 28 happens to also be International Workers’ Memorial Day (IWMD) — a day dedicated to remembering those who have lost their lives, suffered injury or illness on the job or experienced any work-related incident. It’s a day of remembrance, emphasizing the critical need for robust safety measures and vigilance in the workplace.
According to the Association of Workers’ Compensation Boards of Canada (AWCBC), in 2022, there were 993 workplace fatalities recorded in Canada. Among these deaths were 33 young workers aged 15–24. In addition to those fatalities, there were also 348,747 accepted claims for lost time due to a work-related injury or disease.
These figures highlight the urgent need for comprehensive safety protocols and heightened awareness.
Mary Long: ISTOCKPHOTO.COM
In regard to PPE, ensuring that employees are equipped with adequate protective wear, such as goggles, helmets and gloves, can significantly help mitigate risk. Regular assessments of PPE effectiveness and compliance with industry standards are crucial to maintaining a safe work environment.
Investing in workplace safety translates to great benefits for businesses. By prioritizing employee health and safety, employers protect productivity, reduce absenteeism and create a culture of engagement and well-being among staff. A safe workplace is fundamental to the success and sustainability of any business.
Safe workplaces can attract prospective employees and enhance overall morale and job satisfaction among current staff. Companies that prioritize safety demonstrate their commitment to protecting the overall well-being of staff.
To achieve lasting safety improvements, employers must adopt transparent processes for identifying and addressing safety concerns. This involves getting feedback from employees, identifying safety hazards and implementing corrective measures promptly.
Continuous investment in employee awareness programs is also key. By keeping staff informed about safety practices and potential risks, businesses empower their workforce to make informed decisions that contribute to a safer working environment. Regular evaluations of safety measures and feedback mechanisms ensure that protocols remain effective and responsive to evolving workplace needs.
In conclusion, prioritizing workplace safety isn’t just a legal requirement, it’s a moral requirement that contributes to the resilience and sustainability of any workforce. As we take part in World Day for Health & Safety and Work and International Workers’ Memorial Day, we should reaffirm our commitment to creating a workplace where every employee feels protected, valued and empowered to thrive.
Together, we can create a safer and more sustainable future for all workers. By investing in safety measures and adopting proactive approaches to risk management, businesses can not only protect their most valuable assets — their employees — but also enhance company reputation and long-term success.
Michelle Ann Zoleta is the health and safety advice manager at Peninsula Canada.
The opinions expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the author’s firm, its clients, Law360 Canada, LexisNexis Canada or any of its or their respective affiliates. This article is for general information purposes and is not intended to be and should not be taken as legal advice.
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