OUR CREDENTIALS
Our experienced team of occupational health and safety consultants hold many professional health and safety credentials:
Greystone Safety Services is fully licensed, bonded, and insured to wholly protect the best interest of our clients. We carry a comprehensive package of general liability insurance with special coverage for environmental pollution. We also hold up-to-date WorkSafeBC insurance registration for all our employees. As a result of our extensive health and safety programs, we have consistently received preferred standing for maintaining an excellent track record of on-the-job safety.
Greystone Safety Services is fully licensed, bonded, and insured to wholly protect the best interest of our clients. We carry a comprehensive package of general liability insurance with special coverage for environmental pollution. We also hold up-to-date WorkSafeBC insurance registration for all our employees. As a result of our extensive health and safety programs, we have consistently received preferred standing for maintaining an excellent track record of on-the-job safety.
Diploma of Technology in Occupational Health and Safety (BCIT)
Certified Master Instructor (CMI) Canadian Society of Safety Engineering Membership (CSSE) Certified Radiation Safety Officer (CRSO) Certified Emergency Response Team Coordinator (CERTC) Bachelor of Science Degrees (BSc) |
Certified Level II Emergency Spill Response (CESR)
Certified Confined Space Rescue (CCSR) Certified Maritime Confined Space Safety Practices (NFPA) Certified Non-violent Crisis Intervention Training (NCIT) 3M Respiratory Train the Trainer Certification (3M) Level 2 & Level 3 Fall Protection Certification (WMG) |
INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE
OUR INDUSTRY SECTORS
With over 20 years of professional health and safety experience we have proudly served our clients in various industries across BC:
With over 20 years of professional health and safety experience we have proudly served our clients in various industries across BC:
HEAVY BUILDING CONSTRUCTION
GENERAL CONSTRUCTION HOME BUILDING CONSTRUCTION HOTEL & TOURISM INDUSTRY BUILDING MANAGEMENT INDUSTRY SOCIAL SERVICES & HEALTHCARE FIELD DRILLING FEDERAL GOVERNMENT LOGISITICS GOLF RESORTS AEROSPACE MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES ELECTRICAL CONTRACTING WINTER & SKI RESORTS |
PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRY
MEDICAL FACILITIES GROCERY STORE FRANCHISES FOOD RETAIL FRANCHISES MUSEUMS HEAVY MANUFACTURING MARITIME & SHIPBUILDING NON-FOR-PROFIT INDUSTRY PULP, PAPER & PLASTICS INDUSTRY PROVINCIAL MUNICIPALITIES TECHNOLOGY COMPANIES FORESTRY AND LUMBER INDUSTRY LUXURY PRIVATE RESORTS SUMMER FUN PARK RESORTS |
BC SCHOOL DISTRICTS
AUTOMOTIVE DEALERSHIPS & REPAIR FEDERAL CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTES RETAIL STORES WHOLESALE TRADE FINANCIAL SERVICES INDUSTRY INSURANCE SERVICES INDUSTRY WASTE SERVICES INDUSTRY HEALTH & FITNESS FACILITIES SCIENCE LABORATORY FACILITIES RETAIL BUSINESS OWNERS SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS AGRICULTURE CYBER-SECURITY INDUSTRY |
WAREHOUSE & FACTORY OPERATIONS
INSURANCE COMPANIES RAILWAY INDUSTRY TRANSPORTATION INDUSTRY TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY ELECTRICAL & MECHANICAL UNIVERSITIES & COLLEGES PRIVATE EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES CONTRACTOR & SUB-CONTRACTOR INDUSTRY PLUMBING, HEATING AND COOLING BARS & RESTAURANTS FRANCHISES BEER, WINE AND LIQUOR FRANCHISES ARTS AND RECREATION SERVICE INDUSTRY CANNABIS DISTRIBUTION INDUSTRY |
WHERE CAN I GET HELP TO RESPOND TO WORKSAFEBC ORDERS WRITTEN AGAINST MY COMPANY?
We specialize in providing employers with professional legal services to ensure compliance with WorkSafeBC (WCB) OHSR Regulation & Legislation. If your business has been issued an inspection report or written orders from WorkSafeBC - call us we can help!
We will carefully review any inspection reports and written orders issued to your business and then assist you with compliance. Once compliance has been achieved, either through safety training or written program development, we can then assist you with developing a notice of compliance which must be sent to WorkSafeBC as proof of compliance. We will also work closely with WorkSafeBC (WCB) Occupational Safety Officers, to ensure compliance if your company has been issued any inspection reports, written orders or have been sanctioned penalties/fines.
We specialize in providing employers with professional legal services to ensure compliance with WorkSafeBC (WCB) OHSR Regulation & Legislation. If your business has been issued an inspection report or written orders from WorkSafeBC - call us we can help!
We will carefully review any inspection reports and written orders issued to your business and then assist you with compliance. Once compliance has been achieved, either through safety training or written program development, we can then assist you with developing a notice of compliance which must be sent to WorkSafeBC as proof of compliance. We will also work closely with WorkSafeBC (WCB) Occupational Safety Officers, to ensure compliance if your company has been issued any inspection reports, written orders or have been sanctioned penalties/fines.
IS MY BUSINESS IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE WORKSAFEBC REGULATION?
The Occupational Health & Safety Regulation and the Workers Compensation Act has thousands of written regulations and guidelines which, depending upon the industry you work in, employers must follow here in BC. At times, these regulations can be hard to find and sometimes even difficult to understand. So, to know if your in compliance with these regulations is no easy task. However, we at Greystone Safety Services can definitely make this task a little easier for you.
Typically, we will start off by conducting a site safety inspection which will then follow up with a more detailed safety audit of your work site. With this compiled information we can then determine which areas of your business is either in compliance or non-compliance. We will then supply your organization with a detailed, but easy-to-read, report that will help you understand what steps you need to take to ensure you are in compliance with the OHSR & WCA (WorkSafeBC). We will also take the time to verbally go over our written report, step-by-step, with your team to ensure you fully understand the contents of the report and that you are comfortable in taking the next steps towards achieving safety excellence in your workplace.
The Occupational Health & Safety Regulation and the Workers Compensation Act has thousands of written regulations and guidelines which, depending upon the industry you work in, employers must follow here in BC. At times, these regulations can be hard to find and sometimes even difficult to understand. So, to know if your in compliance with these regulations is no easy task. However, we at Greystone Safety Services can definitely make this task a little easier for you.
Typically, we will start off by conducting a site safety inspection which will then follow up with a more detailed safety audit of your work site. With this compiled information we can then determine which areas of your business is either in compliance or non-compliance. We will then supply your organization with a detailed, but easy-to-read, report that will help you understand what steps you need to take to ensure you are in compliance with the OHSR & WCA (WorkSafeBC). We will also take the time to verbally go over our written report, step-by-step, with your team to ensure you fully understand the contents of the report and that you are comfortable in taking the next steps towards achieving safety excellence in your workplace.
WHAT IS THE OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY REGULATION (OHSR)?
The OHSR in BC contains legal requirements that must be met by all workplaces under the inspectional jurisdiction of WorkSafeBC. Many sections of the OHSR have associated guidelines and policies. This includes most workplaces in BC, except mines and federally chartered workplaces such as banks, interprovincial and international transportation, telephone systems, and radio, television, and cable services.
The purpose of the OHSR is to promote occupational health and safety and to protect workers and other persons present at workplaces from work-related risks to their health, safety, and well-being. Compliance with the requirements provides the basis on which workers and employers, in cooperation, can solve workplace health and safety problems. The requirements are not an end in themselves, but are a foundation upon which to build an effective health and safety program. WorkSafeBC is committed to the regular review of the requirements of the OHSR based on regulatory experience and changes in knowledge, technology, and work practices. All interested parties are invited to forward suggestions for improvement to WorkSafeBC .
Note: The requirements of the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation are adopted under the authority of the Workers Compensation Act as amended from time to time.
Many parts of the OHSR have associated guidelines, which are used to help interpret and apply the OHSR. Other policies and practices of WorkSafeBC are set out in the Prevention Manual.
HOW THE OHSR IS ORGANIZED
This section provides brief information about the 32 Parts of the OHSR.
Parts 1-4: Core Requirements
The Core Requirements apply to all workplaces, and include:
Part 1: Definitions - A list of words used in the OHSR that have specific meanings.
Part 2: Application -- A description of how the OHSR is applied.
Part 3: Rights and Responsibilities -- Details about elements of a health and safety program, investigations and reports, workplace inspections, the right to refuse work and first aid.
Part 4: General Conditions -- Requirements for such aspects of workplace safety as building and equipment safety, emergency preparedness, preventing violence, working alone, ergonomics, illumination, indoor air quality, smoking, and lunchrooms.
Parts 5-19: General Hazard Requirements.
Parts 5-19 deal with general hazards found in a number of workplaces, usually higher-hazard operations. Topics include the safe use of chemicals, confined space entry procedures, guarding of machinery and the use of mobile equipment. In many workplaces, including office environments, only a small portion of these requirements may apply.
Parts 20-34: Industry/Activity Specific Requirements
Parts 20-34 deal with requirements that apply to specific industries -- such as forestry, oil and gas, and construction - or to specific hazardous activities -- such as blasting and diving. The last two Parts cover firefighting, and evacuation and rescue.
The OHSR in BC contains legal requirements that must be met by all workplaces under the inspectional jurisdiction of WorkSafeBC. Many sections of the OHSR have associated guidelines and policies. This includes most workplaces in BC, except mines and federally chartered workplaces such as banks, interprovincial and international transportation, telephone systems, and radio, television, and cable services.
The purpose of the OHSR is to promote occupational health and safety and to protect workers and other persons present at workplaces from work-related risks to their health, safety, and well-being. Compliance with the requirements provides the basis on which workers and employers, in cooperation, can solve workplace health and safety problems. The requirements are not an end in themselves, but are a foundation upon which to build an effective health and safety program. WorkSafeBC is committed to the regular review of the requirements of the OHSR based on regulatory experience and changes in knowledge, technology, and work practices. All interested parties are invited to forward suggestions for improvement to WorkSafeBC .
Note: The requirements of the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation are adopted under the authority of the Workers Compensation Act as amended from time to time.
Many parts of the OHSR have associated guidelines, which are used to help interpret and apply the OHSR. Other policies and practices of WorkSafeBC are set out in the Prevention Manual.
HOW THE OHSR IS ORGANIZED
This section provides brief information about the 32 Parts of the OHSR.
Parts 1-4: Core Requirements
The Core Requirements apply to all workplaces, and include:
Part 1: Definitions - A list of words used in the OHSR that have specific meanings.
Part 2: Application -- A description of how the OHSR is applied.
Part 3: Rights and Responsibilities -- Details about elements of a health and safety program, investigations and reports, workplace inspections, the right to refuse work and first aid.
Part 4: General Conditions -- Requirements for such aspects of workplace safety as building and equipment safety, emergency preparedness, preventing violence, working alone, ergonomics, illumination, indoor air quality, smoking, and lunchrooms.
Parts 5-19: General Hazard Requirements.
Parts 5-19 deal with general hazards found in a number of workplaces, usually higher-hazard operations. Topics include the safe use of chemicals, confined space entry procedures, guarding of machinery and the use of mobile equipment. In many workplaces, including office environments, only a small portion of these requirements may apply.
Parts 20-34: Industry/Activity Specific Requirements
Parts 20-34 deal with requirements that apply to specific industries -- such as forestry, oil and gas, and construction - or to specific hazardous activities -- such as blasting and diving. The last two Parts cover firefighting, and evacuation and rescue.
HOW DO I REDUCE MY WORKSAFEBC PREMIUMS?
A commitment to health and safety can create a better work environment, help businesses retain good workers, and lead to greater productivity and better customer service from workers who are trained to do their jobs safely. Fewer workplace accidents can also reduce business costs such as those incurred in training temporary employees, repairing property damage, or paying WorkSafeBC fines and increased WorkSafeBC premiums.
A well run business not only values its customers, but also values its employees. We at Greystone Safety Consulting Services educate employers on how a proper implemented safety program not only prevents injuries and disease in the workplace, but also ensures you are in compliance with the OHSR Regulation (WorkSafeBC) and in the long run - can save you money. Yes, a good safety program can save you money! High injury rates at your workplace result in your premium rates to increase rapidly. Thus, forcing you to pay more in premiums on a yearly basis. However, these costs can be reduced considerably by preventing injuries and ensuring a proper health and safety program has been implemented at your workplace.
A commitment to health and safety can create a better work environment, help businesses retain good workers, and lead to greater productivity and better customer service from workers who are trained to do their jobs safely. Fewer workplace accidents can also reduce business costs such as those incurred in training temporary employees, repairing property damage, or paying WorkSafeBC fines and increased WorkSafeBC premiums.
A well run business not only values its customers, but also values its employees. We at Greystone Safety Consulting Services educate employers on how a proper implemented safety program not only prevents injuries and disease in the workplace, but also ensures you are in compliance with the OHSR Regulation (WorkSafeBC) and in the long run - can save you money. Yes, a good safety program can save you money! High injury rates at your workplace result in your premium rates to increase rapidly. Thus, forcing you to pay more in premiums on a yearly basis. However, these costs can be reduced considerably by preventing injuries and ensuring a proper health and safety program has been implemented at your workplace.
WHAT IS THE CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION (COR) PROGRAM?
The Partners Program, also known as the certificate of recognition (COR), encourages employers to create an occupational health and safety management system that goes beyond the current legal requirements. The voluntary program recognizes employers that are proactive about improving workplace safety, and dedicated to continual improvement. Employers earn a certificate of recognition when they implement an occupational health and safety management system (OHSMS) that has successfully passed an audit and met WorkSafeBC's standards. As part of the COR program, employers whose occupational health and safety management systems have passed an audit and are in good standing with WorkSafeBC are considered for financial incentives. Incentive payments are calculated using your company's assessable payroll and the base rate for your classification unit (CU) for the incentive year.
The Partners Program, also known as the certificate of recognition (COR), encourages employers to create an occupational health and safety management system that goes beyond the current legal requirements. The voluntary program recognizes employers that are proactive about improving workplace safety, and dedicated to continual improvement. Employers earn a certificate of recognition when they implement an occupational health and safety management system (OHSMS) that has successfully passed an audit and met WorkSafeBC's standards. As part of the COR program, employers whose occupational health and safety management systems have passed an audit and are in good standing with WorkSafeBC are considered for financial incentives. Incentive payments are calculated using your company's assessable payroll and the base rate for your classification unit (CU) for the incentive year.
WHAT SHOULD I LOOK FOR WHEN HIRING A HEALTH AND SAFETY CONSULTING FIRM?
When hiring a professional health and safety consultant in BC it is important to not only look at the safety consultants work experience in the field of Occupational Health and Safety, but to also look at their credentials. A few years in the OHS field and a few certificates later does not make you a qualified health and safety consultant. Hiring a experienced and educated health and safety consultant is a wise investment with numerous benefits.
Safety consultants in BC can be extremely helpful in getting an Occupational Health and Safety Program off the ground without adding duties to your busy staff’s current workload. Some key questions a company should ask before hiring a health and safety consulting firm, are:
1. What education and professional certifications do you have in the field of Occupational Health and Safety?
2. What experience do you have in the field of Occupational Health and Safety, Safety Management Systems and Safety Training?
3. What industry experience do you have?
4. Do you have liability insurance, errors and omissions insurance and WorkSafeBC insurance?
5. How do you keep up with current OHS legislation and industry best safety practices?
6. Will you provide the scope of work, timelines and deliverables in writing? What due diligence documentation do you provide?
Greystone Safety Services is more than happy to answer any of your questions. We will prove to you that we are the right fit for your need because of our experience in the field and our recognized credentials. Please contact us for more information on our health and safety consulting services in BC.
When hiring a professional health and safety consultant in BC it is important to not only look at the safety consultants work experience in the field of Occupational Health and Safety, but to also look at their credentials. A few years in the OHS field and a few certificates later does not make you a qualified health and safety consultant. Hiring a experienced and educated health and safety consultant is a wise investment with numerous benefits.
Safety consultants in BC can be extremely helpful in getting an Occupational Health and Safety Program off the ground without adding duties to your busy staff’s current workload. Some key questions a company should ask before hiring a health and safety consulting firm, are:
1. What education and professional certifications do you have in the field of Occupational Health and Safety?
2. What experience do you have in the field of Occupational Health and Safety, Safety Management Systems and Safety Training?
3. What industry experience do you have?
4. Do you have liability insurance, errors and omissions insurance and WorkSafeBC insurance?
5. How do you keep up with current OHS legislation and industry best safety practices?
6. Will you provide the scope of work, timelines and deliverables in writing? What due diligence documentation do you provide?
Greystone Safety Services is more than happy to answer any of your questions. We will prove to you that we are the right fit for your need because of our experience in the field and our recognized credentials. Please contact us for more information on our health and safety consulting services in BC.
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE BENEFITS OF HIRING A HEALTH AND SAFETY CONSULTING FIRM?
Health and Safety Consultants are third party entities that come into your facility to gain an understanding of how your health and safety program is preforming in your everyday workplace operations. Here are some benefits for your company when hiring a health and safety consulting firm in BC:
1. You are hiring a certified health and safety consulting firm which is recognized with provincial and federal legislative bodies.
2. Your health and safety consultant is guaranteed to be up to date on all WorkSafeBC Regulations.
3. Health and Safety Consultants work independently and therefore can see any health and safety issues in an objective manner.
4. You get years of special health and safety experience which just cannot be found by hiring somebody.
5. You can utilize health and safety consultants when and as needed, which can be very cost effective for your organization.
6. Health and Safety Consultants can develop you a site specific health and safety program which is in compliance with current legislation.
7. Health and Safety Consultants can provide your employees with certified safety training accreditation when needed.
8. Perhaps an organization’s safety culture is in need of significant improvement, but the culture is reluctant to change. A health and safety consultant can be called in to validate the importance of the desired changes and help guide the organization to a new and better safety culture, providing not only verification, but cover for the organization to make crucial changes.
Contact us to discover why Greystone Safety Services would be the ideal health and safety consulting firm to hire for your company in BC.
Health and Safety Consultants are third party entities that come into your facility to gain an understanding of how your health and safety program is preforming in your everyday workplace operations. Here are some benefits for your company when hiring a health and safety consulting firm in BC:
1. You are hiring a certified health and safety consulting firm which is recognized with provincial and federal legislative bodies.
2. Your health and safety consultant is guaranteed to be up to date on all WorkSafeBC Regulations.
3. Health and Safety Consultants work independently and therefore can see any health and safety issues in an objective manner.
4. You get years of special health and safety experience which just cannot be found by hiring somebody.
5. You can utilize health and safety consultants when and as needed, which can be very cost effective for your organization.
6. Health and Safety Consultants can develop you a site specific health and safety program which is in compliance with current legislation.
7. Health and Safety Consultants can provide your employees with certified safety training accreditation when needed.
8. Perhaps an organization’s safety culture is in need of significant improvement, but the culture is reluctant to change. A health and safety consultant can be called in to validate the importance of the desired changes and help guide the organization to a new and better safety culture, providing not only verification, but cover for the organization to make crucial changes.
Contact us to discover why Greystone Safety Services would be the ideal health and safety consulting firm to hire for your company in BC.
HOW DO I KNOW IF MY BUSINESS NEEDS A HEALTH AND SAFETY PROGRAM IN BC?
All BC workplaces, regardless of the type of industry you work in or the size of your business, are required to have either a FORMAL or INFORMAL occupational health and safety program.
The Occupational Health & Safety Regulation (WorkSafeBC) states that an FORMAL occupational health and safety program must be initiated and maintained by each employer that has a workforce of 20 or more workers, and at least one workplace that is determined to create a moderate or high risk of injury, or by each employer that has a workforce of 50 or more workers. If this applies to the employer, the occupational health and safety program applies to the whole of the employer's operations. Also, an occupational health and safety program may be required in any workplace when, in the opinion of an WorkSafeBC officer, such a program is necessary. Click here (Part 3 Section 3.1) to read the legislation on formal Occupational Health and Safety Programs.
In any operation where the workforce is less than 20 employees the employer must initiate and maintain a less formal (INFORMAL) program based on regular monthly meetings with workers for discussion of health and safety matters, ensure that meetings are directed to matters concerning the correction of unsafe conditions and practices and the maintenance of cooperative interest in the health and safety of the workforce, and maintain a record of the meetings and the matters discussed. Click here (Part 3 Section 3.2) to read the legislation on informal Occupational Health and Safety Programs.
We can help you develop an formal or informal health and safety program which will help you maintain your excellent safety record.
All BC workplaces, regardless of the type of industry you work in or the size of your business, are required to have either a FORMAL or INFORMAL occupational health and safety program.
The Occupational Health & Safety Regulation (WorkSafeBC) states that an FORMAL occupational health and safety program must be initiated and maintained by each employer that has a workforce of 20 or more workers, and at least one workplace that is determined to create a moderate or high risk of injury, or by each employer that has a workforce of 50 or more workers. If this applies to the employer, the occupational health and safety program applies to the whole of the employer's operations. Also, an occupational health and safety program may be required in any workplace when, in the opinion of an WorkSafeBC officer, such a program is necessary. Click here (Part 3 Section 3.1) to read the legislation on formal Occupational Health and Safety Programs.
In any operation where the workforce is less than 20 employees the employer must initiate and maintain a less formal (INFORMAL) program based on regular monthly meetings with workers for discussion of health and safety matters, ensure that meetings are directed to matters concerning the correction of unsafe conditions and practices and the maintenance of cooperative interest in the health and safety of the workforce, and maintain a record of the meetings and the matters discussed. Click here (Part 3 Section 3.2) to read the legislation on informal Occupational Health and Safety Programs.
We can help you develop an formal or informal health and safety program which will help you maintain your excellent safety record.
AS AN EMPLOYER, SUPERVISOR/MANAGER OR PRIME CONTRACTOR - WHAT ARE MY LEGAL HEALTH AND SAFETY RESPONSIBILITIES IN BC?
Whether your business is large or small in BC, the WorkSafeBC OHS Regulations and the Worker's Compensation Act requires that it be a safe and healthy place to work. If you are an employer, it is your responsibility to ensure a healthy and safe workplace.
Supervisors in BC play a key role with very specific health and safety responsibilities that need to be understood. A supervisor is a person who instructs, directs, and controls workers in the performance of their duties. A supervisor can be any worker, management or staff who meets this definition, whether or not he or she has the supervisor title. If someone in the workplace has a supervisor's responsibilities, that person is responsible for worker health and safety.
In a workplace where there are two or more employers working at the same time, a written agreement should identify a prime contractor. If there is no written agreement, the owner is considered to be the prime contractor. While prime contractors in BC have overall responsibility for health and safety on a work site, employers still retain responsibility for the health and safety of their own workers.
Employer responsibilities:
Supervisor Responsibilities:
Prime Contractor Responsibilities:
Whether your business is large or small in BC, the WorkSafeBC OHS Regulations and the Worker's Compensation Act requires that it be a safe and healthy place to work. If you are an employer, it is your responsibility to ensure a healthy and safe workplace.
Supervisors in BC play a key role with very specific health and safety responsibilities that need to be understood. A supervisor is a person who instructs, directs, and controls workers in the performance of their duties. A supervisor can be any worker, management or staff who meets this definition, whether or not he or she has the supervisor title. If someone in the workplace has a supervisor's responsibilities, that person is responsible for worker health and safety.
In a workplace where there are two or more employers working at the same time, a written agreement should identify a prime contractor. If there is no written agreement, the owner is considered to be the prime contractor. While prime contractors in BC have overall responsibility for health and safety on a work site, employers still retain responsibility for the health and safety of their own workers.
Employer responsibilities:
- Establish a valid occupational health and safety program.
- Train your employees to do their work safely and provide proper supervision.
- Provide supervisors with the necessary support and training to carry out health and safety responsibilities.
- Ensure adequate first aid equipment, supplies, and trained attendants are on site to handle injuries.
- Regularly inspect your workplace to make sure everything is working properly.
- Fix problems reported by workers.
- Transport injured workers to the nearest location for medical treatment.
- Report all injuries to WorkSafeBC that required medical attention.
- Investigate incidents where workers are injured or equipment is damaged.
- Submit the necessary forms to WorkSafeBC.
Supervisor Responsibilities:
- Ensure the health and safety of all workers under your direct supervision.
- Know the WorkSafeBC requirements that apply to the work under your supervision and make sure those requirements are met.
- Ensure workers under your supervision are aware of all known hazards.
- Ensure workers under your supervision have the appropriate personal protective equipment, which is being used properly, regularly inspected, and maintained.
Prime Contractor Responsibilities:
- Coordinate the occupational health and safety activities of all employers, workers, and anyone else at the workplace.
- Establish and maintain procedures to ensure occupational health and safety requirements at the workplace are followed by all parties.
AS A GENERAL CONTRACTOR I SUB-CONTRACT MY WORK OUT TO OTHER COMPANIES - DO I STILL NEED TO HAVE A SAFETY PROGRAM?
A Prime Contractor cannot avoid legal responsibility for workplace safety by subcontracting out work. At most multiple employer worksites, the prime contractor is responsible for health and safety. Generally possessing knowledge of a job’s work activities, hazards, and the means to control these hazards, the prime contractor is usually the best qualified to oversee and coordinate an effective health and safety program for all workers onsite. But, all too often, owners, subcontractors, and Prime contractor responsibilities even prime contractors misunderstand this important role.
According to the Workers Compensation Act, the prime contractor is ultimately responsible for safety on the job site for all workers, whether they are an employee or subcontracted. The prime contractor of a multiple-employer workplace must coordinate all of the Occupational Health and Safety actives related to the workplace and do everything that is reasonably practicable to establish and maintain a system or process that will comply with the Workers Compensation Act. Click here (WCA Part 3 Division 3 Section 118) to read the legislation on Prime Contractors.
We at Greystone Safety Services can assist you in providing training and developing written policies, procedures and forms to ensure your prime contracting company is safe - liability wise - and due diligent in all matters when hiring outside subcontractors.
A Prime Contractor cannot avoid legal responsibility for workplace safety by subcontracting out work. At most multiple employer worksites, the prime contractor is responsible for health and safety. Generally possessing knowledge of a job’s work activities, hazards, and the means to control these hazards, the prime contractor is usually the best qualified to oversee and coordinate an effective health and safety program for all workers onsite. But, all too often, owners, subcontractors, and Prime contractor responsibilities even prime contractors misunderstand this important role.
According to the Workers Compensation Act, the prime contractor is ultimately responsible for safety on the job site for all workers, whether they are an employee or subcontracted. The prime contractor of a multiple-employer workplace must coordinate all of the Occupational Health and Safety actives related to the workplace and do everything that is reasonably practicable to establish and maintain a system or process that will comply with the Workers Compensation Act. Click here (WCA Part 3 Division 3 Section 118) to read the legislation on Prime Contractors.
We at Greystone Safety Services can assist you in providing training and developing written policies, procedures and forms to ensure your prime contracting company is safe - liability wise - and due diligent in all matters when hiring outside subcontractors.
WHERE CAN I FURTHER MY EDUCATION IF I AM LOOKING FOR A CAREER IN OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY?
Here are some recognized occupational health and safety educational bodies in BC, which provide quality OHS courses for individuals looking for a career in the occupational health and safety field in BC:
BCIT Diploma of Technology (OHS) - Full-time 2 Years
BCIT’s Occupational Health and Safety Diploma program is the most comprehensive and recognized in Canada. The Diploma program is the most comprehensive training of its kind in Canada. Students learn the skills they need to start a great career in health and safety, in any industry and workplace. Click here for more information.
BCIT Certificate of Technology (OHS) - Part-time, Distance and On-line
BCIT also has an OHS certificate program, which requires five years of practical experience and high school graduation. Some of the certificate courses are transferable to the diploma program. Click here for more information.
University of Victoria Certificate (EHS) - Online
UVic's online Certificate Program in Environmental and Occupational Health (EOH) is one of the leading workplace health and safety training programs of its kind in Canada. You will learn about the latest Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) regulations related to workplace health and safety, strategies for meeting the health needs of employees in the workplace, and how to manage the impacts of the workplace on employee safety and the environment.
Whether you are already working in the field and want to specialize in occupational, environmental and health training, or looking for a career in a rapidly expanding field, this program will expand your career options by teaching you skills that you can put to use in many areas. Click here for more information.
Simon Fraser University OHS Certificate - Part-time, In-class and On-line
SFU's part-time Occupational Health and Safety (commonly known as OHS and OH&S) Certificate, you’ll learn to keep employees safe and healthy by planning, promoting, implementing and evaluating workplace safety management programs.
Six focused OHS courses will teach you about workplace health and safety systems, including the fundamentals of occupational hygiene, safety hazard recognition, organizational behaviour within the context of Canadian business, and provincial and federal health and safety legislation including the Workers Compensation Act. Click here for more information.
CSO: Construction Safety Officer
A Construction Safety Officer (CSO) is responsible for ensuring required safety protocols are followed on a work site. A CSO will conduct safety orientation for new workers, and give crew-talks to keep personnel informed about safety. They will also conduct and document site inspections, site hazard audits, and maintain site safety plans to ensure that work being done on a site follows safety regulation.
The Construction Safety Officer Certification program offered by the Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of BC is the only Construction Safety Certification in Canada, awarded by a professional association. The ASTTBC Construction Safety Certification program is designed to allow safety practitioners to build their careers within a professional association. This career growth requires accumulated experience, a commitment to continuing education, and an ethical and professional approach to the job. Click here for more information.
BCIT also provides training to students who wish to pursue a career as a safety professional through the CNST 1100 - Construction Safety Officer Training course. Click here for for information.
NCSO – National Construction Safety Officer
The NCSO, through the British Columbia Construction Safety Alliance, is recognized as a national program that came into effect January 1,2017. The NCSO program combines formal education, training and recognition of experience in construction safety coordination including administration and implementation of the company’s health and safety program. The title of NCSO has been created to harmonize and standardize the certification for construction safety professionals in Canada.
The Canadian Federation of Construction Associations has approved a new national credential designed to replace a variety of similar provincial designations. Among those provincial health and safety associations transitioning to the National Construction Safety Officer (NCSO) is the BCCSA, which will offer the designation in place of the Construction Safety Specialist (CSS) starting January 1, 2017. The CSS has been offered by the BCCSA for the last several years. Click here for more information.
Here are some recognized occupational health and safety educational bodies in BC, which provide quality OHS courses for individuals looking for a career in the occupational health and safety field in BC:
BCIT Diploma of Technology (OHS) - Full-time 2 Years
BCIT’s Occupational Health and Safety Diploma program is the most comprehensive and recognized in Canada. The Diploma program is the most comprehensive training of its kind in Canada. Students learn the skills they need to start a great career in health and safety, in any industry and workplace. Click here for more information.
BCIT Certificate of Technology (OHS) - Part-time, Distance and On-line
BCIT also has an OHS certificate program, which requires five years of practical experience and high school graduation. Some of the certificate courses are transferable to the diploma program. Click here for more information.
University of Victoria Certificate (EHS) - Online
UVic's online Certificate Program in Environmental and Occupational Health (EOH) is one of the leading workplace health and safety training programs of its kind in Canada. You will learn about the latest Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) regulations related to workplace health and safety, strategies for meeting the health needs of employees in the workplace, and how to manage the impacts of the workplace on employee safety and the environment.
Whether you are already working in the field and want to specialize in occupational, environmental and health training, or looking for a career in a rapidly expanding field, this program will expand your career options by teaching you skills that you can put to use in many areas. Click here for more information.
Simon Fraser University OHS Certificate - Part-time, In-class and On-line
SFU's part-time Occupational Health and Safety (commonly known as OHS and OH&S) Certificate, you’ll learn to keep employees safe and healthy by planning, promoting, implementing and evaluating workplace safety management programs.
Six focused OHS courses will teach you about workplace health and safety systems, including the fundamentals of occupational hygiene, safety hazard recognition, organizational behaviour within the context of Canadian business, and provincial and federal health and safety legislation including the Workers Compensation Act. Click here for more information.
CSO: Construction Safety Officer
A Construction Safety Officer (CSO) is responsible for ensuring required safety protocols are followed on a work site. A CSO will conduct safety orientation for new workers, and give crew-talks to keep personnel informed about safety. They will also conduct and document site inspections, site hazard audits, and maintain site safety plans to ensure that work being done on a site follows safety regulation.
The Construction Safety Officer Certification program offered by the Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of BC is the only Construction Safety Certification in Canada, awarded by a professional association. The ASTTBC Construction Safety Certification program is designed to allow safety practitioners to build their careers within a professional association. This career growth requires accumulated experience, a commitment to continuing education, and an ethical and professional approach to the job. Click here for more information.
BCIT also provides training to students who wish to pursue a career as a safety professional through the CNST 1100 - Construction Safety Officer Training course. Click here for for information.
NCSO – National Construction Safety Officer
The NCSO, through the British Columbia Construction Safety Alliance, is recognized as a national program that came into effect January 1,2017. The NCSO program combines formal education, training and recognition of experience in construction safety coordination including administration and implementation of the company’s health and safety program. The title of NCSO has been created to harmonize and standardize the certification for construction safety professionals in Canada.
The Canadian Federation of Construction Associations has approved a new national credential designed to replace a variety of similar provincial designations. Among those provincial health and safety associations transitioning to the National Construction Safety Officer (NCSO) is the BCCSA, which will offer the designation in place of the Construction Safety Specialist (CSS) starting January 1, 2017. The CSS has been offered by the BCCSA for the last several years. Click here for more information.