Occupational Health and Safety Regulation of British Columbia

The Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Regulation of British Columbia came into effect on April 15, 1998, and the most recent amendments came into effect on February 2, 2012.^[1]

WorkSafeBC is responsible for enforcing workplace health and safety compliance as outlined by the OHS Regulation.^[2] Most workplaces in BC come under the jurisdiction of WorkSafeBC with the exception of mines, which are regulated by the BC Ministry of Mines, and federally regulated workplaces (e.g. banks, transportation travelling out of province, radio, television, and cable services), which are regulated by HRSDC.^[3] The requirements set out under the OHS Regulation are adopted under the authority of the Workers Compensation Act (WCA)^[4]

Purpose

The purpose of the OHS Regulation is to encourage occupational health and safety and protect workers and individuals present at workplaces in British Columbia from work-related risks to health, safety, and well-being.^[5] Meeting the requirements set out in the OHS Regulation provides a means for employers and workers to cooperate and solve problems related to health and safety.^[6]

Organization

In total, the OHS Regulation contains 32 parts.

Parts 1-4: Core Requirements

These requirements apply to all workplaces in British Columbia.^[7]

Part 1 – Definitions

Part 1 contains definitions of key phrases and words used throughout the OHS Regulation. For example, Part 1.1 defines "hazard" as a thing or a condition that may expose a person to a risk of injury or occupational disease.^[8]

Part 2 – Application

This part provides an explanation on how the OHS Regulation applies to workplaces. Part. 2.1 outlines that the OHS Regulation applies to all employers, workers, and other individuals contributing to the production of any industry that falls under Part 3 of the Worker's Compensation Act.^[9] Additionally, Part 2.2 sets out the general duty for all work to be conducted without undue risk of work-related injury or disease regardless of whether specific requirements exist.^[10] Part 2.8 describes that contravention of the OHS Regulation is considered a violation by the employer and will make the employer liable for any penalty.^[11]

Part 3 – Rights and Responsibilities

Part 3 details the rights and responsibilities of employees and employers. Examples employer responsibilities outlined by the OHS Regulation include workplace inspections, providing occupational health and safety programs when required, and providing orientation and training to young or new workers.^[12] Employee rights include the ability to refuse unsafe work.^[13]

Part 4 – General Conditions

This part sets out generic requirements for workplace safety. Part 4 covers a variety of topics, ranging from emergency procedures to violence in the workplace.^[14] Additional topics include workplace conduct, storing and handling materials, and appropriate illumination levels.^[15]

Parts 5-19: General Hazard Requirements

Parts 5-19 deal with hazards found generally in a variety of workplaces and especially high-hazard workplaces.^[16] For example, the requirements outline the safe use of chemicals and machinery.^[17]

Parts 20-32: Industry/Activity Specific Requirements

Parts 20-32 sets out the requirements that apply to certain industries or activities such as forestry and agriculture.^[18]

Associated Guidelines

The OHS Regulation has associated guidelines in order to assist with compliance. The guidelines provide ways to comply with the requirements set out by the OHS Regulation.^[19] Guidelines are updated regularly.^[20]

References

1. Definitions 2. Application 3. Adoption of standard 4. Restrictions re sprayed material, insulation, sealants 5. Information for workers 6. Demolition 8. Ongoing asbestos management in buildings 9. Responsibility of employer other than owner 10. Owner’s responsibilities before requesting tender or arranging work 11. Advance notice re Type 3 operations and certain Type 2 operations 12. Type 1, Type 2 and Type 3 operations 13. Respirators 14. Measures and procedures, Type 1 operations 15. Measures and procedures, Type 2 and Type 3 operations 16. Additional measures and procedures, Type 2 operations 17. Additional measures and procedures, glove bag operations 18. Additional measures and procedures, Type 3 operations 19. Instruction and training 20. Asbestos abatement training programs 21. Asbestos work report 22. Asbestos Workers Register 23. Use of equivalent measure or procedure 24. Notice to inspector Table 1 Bulk material samples Table 2 Respirators Table 3 Air samples

External links

• Benefits and Services: a handbook for workers