3.4 and 3.5: Describe the link between an organization’s culture and health and safety in the workplace, List the key components within occupational health and safety Flashcards
What is the legal requirement related to workplace health and safety in Canada?
Employers are legally required to provide a healthy and safe work environment.
Which levels of government regulate occupational health and safety in Canada?
Federal, provincial, and territorial governments.
Define occupational injury.
Any cut, fracture, sprain, or amputation resulting from a workplace accident or exposure.
Define occupational illness.
An abnormal condition or disorder caused by exposure to environmental factors at work.
Define occupational disease.
A disease from exposure to a specific process, trade, or occupation in industry.
What body parts are most commonly affected in workplace accidents?
Back, legs, arms, and fingers.
What is the fundamental duty of every employer under occupational health and safety law?
To take every reasonable precaution to ensure employee safety (due diligence).
How does organizational culture influence health and safety?
It shapes employee behavior—cultures focused on cost-cutting may neglect safety.
What happens when a culture values employee involvement in safety?
Employees take safety more seriously and support health and safety programs.
Why are young workers at higher risk of injury?
Due to lack of experience and insufficient training.
How much more likely are teenagers to be injured at work than older workers?
Twice as likely.
What are key health and safety responsibilities of employers?
Provide a hazard-free workplace
Comply with laws
Inform and train employees
Keep records
Report injuries
Ensure managers understand hazards
What are key health and safety responsibilities of employees?
Comply with laws
Report hazards
Follow safety rules
Refuse unsafe work
What are key responsibilities of managers in workplace safety?
Advise on hazards
Ensure compliance with protocols
Provide equipment and training
Guarantee employee safety
What are the roles of Joint Health and Safety Committees?
Advise employers
Foster a safe climate
Investigate accidents
Train in safety obligations
What types of penalties exist for violating occupational health and safety laws?
Financial penalties and possible jail time.
What does the Ontario Occupational Health and Safety Act allow for in terms of penalties?
Fines of up to $500,000 and potential jail time.
What is the maximum fine under Manitoba’s Workplace Safety and Health Act for a first offence?
$250,000.
What is the fine for a second or subsequent offence under Manitoba’s Workplace Safety and Health Act?
$500,000, with the possibility of jail time.
What is the range of penalties for federally regulated companies in Canada?
$100,000 to $1,000,000.
What legal development in British Columbia expanded workplace legislation in 2015?
BC introduced legislation allowing courts to bar employers from operating in a particular industry.
What law was passed in response to the Westray Mine disaster to increase accountability?
The Criminal Code (Bill C-45), allowing charges against coworkers, managers, and executives.
What is the purpose of workers’ compensation?
To provide financial benefits to injured or ill workers due to workplace conditions.
What types of financial benefits can workers receive?
Cash payout (for permanent disability) or wage-loss payments (for reduced work capacity).
What other services does workers’ compensation provide?
Medical aid, vocational rehab, social, and psychological services.
What is the primary goal of workers’ compensation?
To return the employee to their original job or a modified one as soon as possible.
What is a challenge in awarding compensation for industrial diseases?
Proving cause and effect, especially with coexisting factors (e.g., smoking + illness).
How is stress-related disability categorized?
Physical injuries leading to mental disabilities (e.g., clinical depression after an accident)
Mental stress with physical symptoms (e.g., ulcers, migraines)
Mental conditions (e.g., anxiety from downsizing)
What is the trend in workers’ compensation policy?
Shifting from assessment/payments to encouraging safety-conscious environments.
List 5 ways to reduce workers’ compensation costs.
Audit high-risk areas in the workplace.
Prevent injuries via ergonomic job design and screening.
Provide high-quality medical care from trained physicians.
Manage recovery and return-to-work plans on-site.
Train employees extensively in health and safety areas.
