What is the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation? 

British Columbia has legislative and regulatory requirements for health and safety in the workplace. Your obligations as an employer are outlined in the Workers Compensation Act and the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation. Employers must comply with both the Act and the Regulation.  

An Overview of B.C.’s Occupational Health and Safety Regulation for Employers 

The Occupational Health and Safety Regulation (OHSR) is a regulation to the Workers Compensation Act. The regulation is regularly reviewed by WorkSafeBC and applies to most workplaces under this inspectional jurisdiction. Specifically, the Regulation sets the standards for safe workplaces through practices that protect against accidents and injuries at any given work site.  

For small operations – less than 20 employees – employers must follow these three requirements:

  • Create and maintain an informal employee safety program based on regular monthly meetings; 
  • Direct these meetings to matters concerning unsafe conditions and practices, in terms of corrective measures and health and safety maintenance; and 
  • Record every meeting and the discussions that take place. 

Remember, the purpose of the OHSR is to promote occupational health and safety, and to protect your employees from work-related risks to their health, safety, and overall well-being. 

Workplace Inspections 

Your responsibility as an employer starts with being proactive. You must provide any information pertaining to the identification and control of hazards in the workplace.  

In the event that an incident does occur in the workplace, you must carry out an inspection and make any necessary corrections or repairs. If an employee points out any hazards in the workplace, you must also correct them (if possible). 

For employers who fail to comply, a WorkSafeBC Officer or Director will enforce the Act and the Regulation through administrative and financial penalties, or prosecution. 

Is your business compliant? 

The Occupational Health and Safety Regulation can be difficult to comprehend. There are regulations that are more complex, and requirements, such as a joint occupational health and safety committee or workers’ health and safety representative, that employers must consider.  

Our team of HR experts can help protect your business with health and safety best practices. Give our free employer advice line a call today – 1(833) 200-5103.