Alarming numbers
Did you know that the health and social services sector generates 45% of injuries recognized by the CNESST (the Labour Standards, Pay Equity and Occupational Health and Safety Commission) for the entire province,* even though the sector accounts for less than 10% of workplaces in Québec? It’s something to think about.
This demonstrates that there are many risks in your work environment, and they should not be underestimated: work overload, physical or verbal violence, repetitive movements causing pain, non-ergonomic work environments, etc. The list is long.
* According to CNESST data.
The winning recipe: working together
You are on the front lines of these risks and therefore play an essential role. Your employer does too. Identifying risks is the first step to improving OHS. And the best way to be sure you work in a healthy, safe environment is to combine the employer’s commitment with employee participation.
Recent legislative changes in OHS are a move in this direction. Since April 2022, institutions with 20 workers or more are required to introduce prevention and participation mechanisms focused on joint prevention efforts:
- a prevention program (including risk identification);
- a health and safety committee;
- the designation of a health and safety representative.(Links to documents in French).
It’s the first step that counts
By reporting risks, you are contributing to your own safety and that of your coworkers. And you are taking the step that sets in motion protective mechanisms now enshrined in law to ensure risks are managed within your institution.
Your participation in OHS prevention is important because you are the expert in your work environment, and that means that you are in the best position to identify risks. This is a great reason to report, and reporting is also a right. Make your voice heard! With the new legal framework, your report won’t slip through the cracks because of a failure to follow up.
The law is on your side
Whenever a dangerous or risk situation is reported, your employer is required to provide rigorous follow-up, and recourse is available if your employer fails to act. Contact your local union team if needed. Everything starts with identifying and reporting risks. This is why you need to act.
When it comes to occupational health and safety, remember: play it safe!
Risks come in many forms
There are many different kinds of workplace risk, and they are often combined. Risks fall into six categories:
- Safety: moving parts on equipment, confined spaces, movement of equipment or devices, falls, energy sources (e.g.: current, heat), aggression and violence.
- Ergonomic: restrictive or almost completely static postures, repetitive movements, excessive effort.
- Chemical: gas, fumes, liquids or solids that are inhaled, are ingested or come into contact with the skin.
- Psychosocial: physical or verbal violence, harassment, intimidation, stress, work overload, etc., related to the organization of work, management practices, employment conditions or professional relations.
- Physical: loud noises, excessive vibrations, extreme temperatures, radiation, pointed or sharp objects.
- Biological: infectious agents (e.g.: bacteria, blood), allergens (e.g.: dust, fur, saliva), toxins, mould.