4.6. Occupational Health and Safety in Human Resources 

Promoting a safe and healthy work environment should be a fundamental aspect of your organizational ethos. This commitment not only fosters employee well-being but also aids in staff retention, with safety being particularly valued by younger workers. In Ontario, ensuring workplace health and safety falls squarely on the shoulders of employers, emphasizing the need for comprehensive training and orientation within the framework of the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) ​(Government of Ontario, 1990b)​.

Establishing and upholding a safe workplace necessitates ongoing effort, but the investment is invaluable. Formal regulations and numerous resources are available to guide the development and continuation of health and safety practices within your organization.

Initiating an occupational health and safety program begins with a thorough risk assessment of the workplace, identifying potential hazards for both you and your employees. Key elements of your program should encompass: 

• A statement outlining the employer’s objectives and the responsibilities of all parties involved. 

• Regular inspections to identify and rectify hazardous conditions. 

• Written instructions supplementing the OHSA, readily accessible to all employees. 

• Prompt investigation of incidents to prevent recurrence. 

• Maintenance of records and statistics, accessible to relevant parties. 

• Provision for employee instruction and supervision in safe work practices. 

• Regular management meetings to review health and safety activities and incident trends. 

A robust program will: 

• Identify workplace hazards. 

• Control and minimize the risk of workplace injuries or illnesses. 

• Be monitored to ensure compliance with OHSA requirements. 

Compliance with the OHSA is essential for all employers and workers in Ontario. The OHSA sets out legal obligations that workplaces must adhere to, providing a framework for maintaining a safe work environment.

Referencing OHSA guidelines is crucial for understanding legal requirements based on the size of your organization. Monthly formal OHSA meetings, with worker representation, are mandatory, focusing on existing health and safety issues and their resolution. Keeping detailed records of these meetings is imperative for inspection purposes.

Research underscores the benefits of well-structured OHSA programs for long-term business efficacy, including: 

• Decreased workplace injuries and associated costs. 

• Enhanced organizational reputation. 

• Improved staff retention. 

• Establishment of a measurable system to evaluate safety practices. 

Furthermore, participating in the Certificate of Recognition (COR) Program, if your company meets the criteria, may lead to incentive payments from the Ontario Ministry of Labor. This program rewards employers who exceed legal requirements by implementing best practices in injury prevention.