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Page 1: Saint Mary's University Students' Association - … · Web view: Whenever possible, remove the hazard completely through elimination. Examples include automating a function to eliminate
Page 2: Saint Mary's University Students' Association - … · Web view: Whenever possible, remove the hazard completely through elimination. Examples include automating a function to eliminate

Chapter 1: Commitment, Leadership and Participation1.1 Introduction.............................................................................................................2

1.2 CSA Standard Z1000-06........................................................................................2

1.3 The Management Cycle.........................................................................................2

1.4 The Occupational Health and Safety Policy...........................................................3

1.5 Management Commitment and Leadership............................................................3

1.6 Management Representative.................................................................................3

1.7 Responsibility, Accountability and Authority...........................................................4

1.7.1 SMUSA Board...............................................................................................................4

1.7.2 Managers.......................................................................................................................4

1.7.3 Employees.....................................................................................................................5

1.7.4 Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committee ........................................................5

1.8 Employee Participation...........................................................................................6

1.9 Further Development of the OHS Program / Management System........................6

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Chapter 1: Commitment, Leadership and Participation

1.1 IntroductionThe Nova Scotia Occupational Health and Safety Act (1996) requires organizations to have a written OHS program.

1.2 CSA Standard Z1000-06The CSA Z1000 standard is a framework for facilitating improvements in an organization’s OHS performance, and is now regarded as a Canadian OHS best practice. At its core is a system to identify and defines roles, responsibilities and accountabilities. These responsibilities and accountabilities are performance based – using outcomes with concrete goals. The CSA standard is a balanced approach between hazard and risk based on prevention and controls. To review the CSA Z1000 Standard, please contact the OHS Office at 420-5658 or by email at [email protected].

1.3 Continual Improvement CycleThe continual improvement cycle enables the risk management process to evolve and address new and changing workplace hazards. There are five fundamental components in the continual improvement cycle:

Policy Management: Developing corporate policy that outlines the OHS risk management principles and goals that a company is committed to following

Planning: Identifying workplace hazards and understanding associated risks, and establishing processes to satisfy policy objectives

Implementation: Training personnel and bringing the management system into full operation

Corrective Action: Monitoring and measuring management system processes against policy objectives and making necessary changes for continual improvement

Management Review: Auditing the management system for effectiveness and relevance against new workplace hazards and evolving policy objectives

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When correctly designed and implemented, a continual improvement cycle will help ensure the long-term sustainability of the management system to effectively and efficiently control occupational health and safety risk.

1.4 The Occupational Health and Safety PolicyIn compliance with the requirement of Section 27 of the OHS Act, SMUSA has developed an OHS Policy. The OHS Policy establishes the framework of responsibilities and accountabilities. A copy of the current version of the OHS Policy is posted on the OHS Bulletin Board in the various departments, and the SMUSA website at: https://smusa.ca/documents/.

1.5 Management Commitment and LeadershipThis manual describes the elements of SMUSA’s OHS Program and identifies the roles of all parties in successfully implementing the OHS Program. The OHS Program includes elements necessary to effectively manage occupational health and safety in SMUSA, including assignment of responsibilities, accountability for performance, measurement of results and continual improvement.

1.6 Management RepresentativeAt SMUSA, the General Manager, SMUSA, is responsible to oversee the development and implementation of the required occupational health and safety program.

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1.7 Responsibility, Accountability and authoritySMUSA is regarded as the employer under the OHS Act and regulations and is responsible for compliance with the act and regulations. Responsibility for workplace health and safety has been assigned to SMUSA Management

1.7.1 Executive Management Group

The SMUSA Board is responsible to:

ensure that all the operations of SMUSA comply with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and regulations and all orders and requirements of Occupational Health and Safety Officers of the NS Department of Labour and Advanced Education;

ensure that all the operations of SMUSA adhere to the Occupational Health and Safety Policy;

ensure that all the operations of SMUSA adhere to the requirements of SMUSA’s OHS Program;

ensure that there is strategic direction and planning for SMUSA’s OHS Program and to implement the OHS Program;

integrate occupational health and safety in SMUSA’s business; allocate resources for health and safety programs and initiatives; ensure that program review or audit results of the OHS Program are reviewed

and appropriate action is taken; and ensure that responsibility/authority for workplace health and safety is delegated

to trained and competent personnel.

1.7.2 SMUSA Management

SMUSA managers are responsible to:

ensure compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and regulations within the portion of the workplace under their supervision;

ensure that all the operations under their supervision adhere to the OHS Policy; ensure that all the operations under their supervision adhere to the requirements

of the OHS Program; integrate preventive health and safety practices into all activities; ensure that information and training are provided to employees to protect their

health and safety; communicate information concerning workplace hazards and the necessary

control procedures to be practiced to employees; hold employees accountable for following Safe Work Practices; supervise employees and review work processes to ensure that employees work

in the manner required; take action immediately upon any report or suspicion of unsafe or hazardous

conditions or situations; undertake workplace inspections and conduct investigations of incidents, unsafe

work refusals, concerns and complaints related to observed or suspected health and safety hazards, encouraging full participation in such inspections and investigations by representatives of the JOHS Committee;

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co-operate with employees and the JOHS Committee to promote a healthy and safe workplace;

respond in writing to recommendations from the JOHS Committee, when requested, and within the deadline specified in the OHS Act;

co-operate with any person performing a duty under the OHS Act and regulations;

ensure that all orders from and requirements of OHS Officers of the Department of Labour and Advanced Education are satisfied in a timely manner and

provide feedback on the operation of the OHS Program.

1.7.3 Employees

Employees are responsible to:

work in accordance with the OHS Act and regulations; adhere to the OHS Policy; adhere to the requirements of the OHS Program; adhere to other policies and procedures on healthy and safe job performance; ensure that work activity and behaviour do not, through act or omission, place

their own health and safety, or the health and safety of others, at risk; report all workplace hazards and any health and safety concerns to their

immediate supervisor in a timely manner; report all personal injuries or work-related illness, property or equipment damage,

and near-miss incidents to their immediate supervisor in a timely manner; follow established safe work practices and use machinery, equipment and

materials only as authorized and as trained; wear personal protective equipment as required and as instructed; participate, wherever possible, in defining safe work practices and in

opportunities to protect and promote health and safety on the job; and Co-operate with the JOHS Committee, or any person performing a duty under

the OHS Act and regulations.

1.7.4 Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committee

The Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committee (JOHSC) is a collaborative employer-employee body established to work together to address health and safety issues in the workplace and is responsible to:

perform the functions of a joint occupational health and safety committee as defined in sections 29, 30 and 31 of the OHS Act and as required by the regulations;

hold regular meetings in accordance with written Terms of Reference/Rules of Procedure and operating procedures and maintain minutes and records of committee activities;

work co-operatively with management and employees to identify hazards to health and safety and provide input on health and safety programs designed to respond to the hazards;

work co-operatively with the employer in the investigation and resolution of health and safety complaints, concerns or work refusals;

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work co-operatively with management in undertaking inspections, inquiries, and investigations concerning health and safety;

participate in the yearly review of the Occupational Health and Safety Policy; advise on the development, implementation, and evaluation of the OHS Program; participate in the co-operative auditing of the workplace to determine compliance

with occupational health and safety requirements; and Develop written recommendations to management as considered appropriate.

1.8 Employee participationSMUSA recognizes and values the knowledge and skills of employees with regard to performing their jobs safely and will promote a workplace culture where employees are supported and encouraged to contribute to improving occupational health and safety performance and in the development, implementation and continual improvement of the OHS Program. SMUSA commits to working in partnership with employees, through the internal responsibility system, to develop and implement measures in order to eliminate and minimize risk of occupational injury and illness in the workplace.

SMUSA will facilitate full participation through:

the consultative process by which the OHS Program is developed and improved; employee participation in the process of hazard identification, risk assessment and risk

control; employee participation in the development of Safe Work Practices; and the training and orientation designed to further employee competence.

1.9 Further Development of the OHS Program / Management SystemThe development of this manual is not the end of the development of Occupational Health and Safety, but the beginning of the development of an occupational health and safety system. The University intends to develop and implement the remaining components of the CSA OHS Management Standard. By its very nature, the OHS Program is a continual improvement process following an ongoing Management Cycle. Some chapters of this manual have been fully developed and will only require periodic review and revision based on the changing needs of the Association. Other chapters will require experience with the OHS Program and further work to develop tools and implement elements of the system. As changes occur, updates to this manual will be circulated.

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Chapter 2: Legal and Other Requirements2.1 Introduction.............................................................................................................8

2.2 Nova Scotia Occupational Health and Safety Act...................................................8

2.2.1 The Internal Responsibility System...............................................................................8

2.2.2 Due Diligence................................................................................................................9

2.2.3 Employee Rights...........................................................................................................9

2.3 The Criminal Code of Canada and Bill C-45.........................................................10

2.4 Legislative compliance.........................................................................................10

2.5 Role of Nova Scotia Labour and Advanced Education.........................................10

2.5.1 Inspections by OHSD Occupational Health and Safety Officers.................................11

2.5.2 Investigations by OHSD Occupational Health and Safety Officers.............................11

2.5.3 Orders by OHSD Occupational Health and Safety Officers........................................11

2.5.4 Prosecutions by Nova Scotia Labour and Advanced Education.................................12

2.5.5 Response by SMUSA personnel to OHSD activities...................................................12

2.6 Applicable regulations..........................................................................................13

2.7 Applicable standards............................................................................................13

2.8 Owner’s Manuals/Manufacturer’s Specifications..................................................14

2.9 Workers’ Compensation ......................................................................................14

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Chapter 2:Legal and Other Requirements

2.1 IntroductionThe Nova Scotia Occupational Health and Safety Act and regulations are the main law governing occupational health and safety (OHS) in the province.

Everyone working for SMUSA needs to know and understand their rights and responsibilities under the law. This chapter of the OHS Program Manual explains those rights and responsibilities.

2.2 Nova Scotia Occupational Health and Safety ActIn Nova Scotia, the legislation applicable to health and safety at the workplace is the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHS Act) 1996 c7.

A copy of the OHS Act can be found on the OHS Bulletin Board. It is also is available on the Nova Scotia Government website at

http://nslegislature.ca/legc/statutes/occph_s.htm

A plain language guide to the OHS Act; Your Rights, Responsibilities and the Occupational Health and Safety Act is also available at

http://www.gov.ns.ca/lae/healthandsafety/docs/YourRightsandResp-en.pdf

2.2.1 The Internal Responsibility SystemThe foundation of the OHS Act is the Internal Responsibility System (IRS), which is defined in Section 2 of the Act and provides an overall philosophy for the interpretation of this legislation. The Internal Responsibility System is based on the principle that all the parties who can affect the health and safety of persons at the workplace share the responsibility for health and safety. This includes employers, contractors, constructors, employees and self-employed persons at a workplace. It also includes the owner of a workplace, suppliers of goods or providers of occupational health or safety services to a workplace or an architect or professional engineer who provides expertise to the workplace.

The key principle of the IRS is that employees and management can work together to deliver effective solutions to manage occupational health and safety issues which arise in the workplace. This is done via:

Personal Responsibility - Each individual is personally responsible for identifying occupational health and safety concerns and seeking solutions.

Inclusive Approach - Everyone is involved in the IRS. It is a multi-party philosophy.

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Cooperation - It is the goal of all to protect safety, health and life. This is not a bargaining process.

Information Flow - There are no secrets under the OHS Act (except medical records and legitimate trade secrets).

Pro-active Approach - The OHS Act is not based on a philosophy of waiting for incidents or accidents to happen or occupational disease to materialize. We must take action to prevent and reduce risk and exposure. People in the workplace are the first to recognize the pre-conditions of a potential injury or disease.

Accountability - Everyone in the workplace is accountable for occupational health and safety.

The Internal Responsibility System is supplemented by the role of the Occupational Health and Safety Division of Nova Scotia Labour and Advanced Education, which is not to assume responsibility for creating and maintaining safe and healthy workplaces, but to establish and clarify the responsibilities of the parties under the law, to support them in carrying out their responsibilities and to intervene appropriately when those responsibilities are not carried out.

2.2.2 Due Diligence“Due diligence” is an expression used to refer to the level of judgement, care, prudence, determination, and activity that a person would reasonably be expected to undertake in particular circumstances. This is sometimes referred to as the “reasonable person” standard for preventive activity associated with hazardous operations.

Due diligence is not the standard of performance under the OHS Act. The OHS Act requires parties to take every precaution that is reasonable in the circumstances. It also requires an employer to comply with the Act and regulations and ensure that employees at the workplace comply with the Act and regulations. Due diligence requires that these two duties be formalized by the establishment of a proper system, and the taking of reasonable steps to ensure the effective operation of the system.

2.2.3 Employee RightsThe model of recognizing occupational health and safety rights focuses on the employee. Nova Scotia’s occupational health and safety legislation creates methods by which the individual employee is empowered and can exercise his or her right to take action so as to be safe and healthy in the work they do and also to protect other persons who are at the workplace.

Rights under the OHS Act include: the right to know about hazards, the right to participate in occupational health and safety, and the right to refuse unsafe work:

The right to information on issues that affect your health and safety. The right to participate in occupational health and safety is done via the JOHS

Committee. All employees are represented by the JOHS Committee and must have regular access to committee members. Employees also have the right to report unsafe conditions, and voice concerns or opinions on any issue that affects their health and safety or the health and safety of anyone at the workplace.

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The right to refuse unsafe or unhealthy work. More information on the right to refuse can be found in Chapter 6 of the OHS Program.

2.3 The Criminal Code of Canada and Bill C-45On November 7, 2003, amendments to the Criminal Code of Canada established a new legal duty for all persons directing work to take reasonable steps to ensure the safety of employees and the public.

The new duty reads:

“217.1 Every one who undertakes, or has the authority, to direct how another person does work or performs a task is under a legal duty to take reasonable steps to prevent bodily harm to that person, or any other person, arising from that work or task.”

This duty applies to all those who direct work, not just management. Everyone representing an organization, from the senior executive to the front line supervisor is required to meet this duty, as is the organization itself. Failure to take reasonable steps to ensure the safety of employees and the public can now result in charges of criminal negligence against both individuals and the organization if a person is injured or killed as a result of the safety lapse.

The purpose of this amendment to the Criminal code was to create a criminal negligence offence for organizations, to establish rules for attributing criminal liability to organizations for the acts of their representatives, and to establish sentencing rules for organizations convicted of an offence under the new provisions.

For an organization to be found guilty an employee must have committed the act that caused the injury or death or contributed to it, and a senior officer must be found to have not taken reasonable steps to prevent the employee from acting in a way that caused harm or for allowing a hazard to remain uncontrolled.

The penalties are much more severe than those for violations of the provincial legislation, but it is important to note that the prosecution must prove that it was intended for the organization to benefit in some way from the violation, such as reducing expense or increasing profit and the senior officer responsible, or senior officers collectively, must have departed markedly from the standard of care that could be expected.

2.4 Legislative complianceAs identified in the Commitment to Occupational Health and Safety, SMUSA will comply with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and regulations. Management and employees at all levels will be held accountable for complying with them.

2.5 Role of Nova Scotia Labour and Advanced EducationIn addition to setting standards for occupational health and safety, the Occupational Health and Safety Division (OHSD) of Nova Scotia Labour and Advanced Education has a role in monitoring for legislative compliance; responding to complaints, concerns or unsafe work refusals; and investigating incidents. Employees of the OHSD are appointed as Officers under the OHS Act and are authorized to enter workplaces and undertake these duties at any

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reasonable time. They may inspect SMUSA workplaces or investigate as they see fit, including examining records and interviewing any person with relevant information to confirm legislative compliance or to deal with any non-compliance which is identified.

2.5.1 Inspections by OHSD Occupational Health and Safety OfficersOHSD Occupational Health and Safety Officers may periodically undertake physical inspections of SMUSA workplaces. These may be planned visits which are part of scheduled activities, may be in response to a complaint or concern, or may be a consultative response to SMUSA enquiries.

The inspection may also include interviews or the review of files and records to determine that the OHS Program is meeting the requirements of the law. All SMUSA employees must co-operate with the Officer during the investigation. Representatives of SMUSA, including a management representative and an employee member of the JOHS Committee (or other employee representative if no JOHS Committee employee representative is available) are entitled to accompany the Officer on the inspection.

Following each inspection, the Officer will prepare a written report, which they will sign and leave at the workplace. They will ask for a SMUSA representative (usually the manager or supervisor of the area which has been inspected) to sign the report to acknowledge its receipt.

Copies of this report must immediately be posted on OHS bulletin boards and one copy sent to the Occupational Health and Safety Office, Human Resources.

2.5.2 Investigations by OHSD Occupational Health and Safety OfficersOccupational Health and Safety Officers will investigate any complaint, refusal to do unsafe work, or serious or fatal incident. These investigations may include examining the workplace and equipment and interviewing people with relevant information.

All SMUSA employees must co-operate with the Officer during the investigation, as investigations under the OHS Act are regarded as serious occurrences and may indicate a failure in the implementation of the occupational health and safety management program or a need to improve the program. Because of this, the Occupational Health and Safety Section, Human Resources must be notified as quickly as possible that an investigation has begun.

At the end of the investigation, the Officer will prepare a written report which will be signed and a copy given to SMUSA.

The person receiving the report must immediately provide a copy of the order to the General Manager, SMUSA. The General Manager, SMUSA, will post a copy of the report on the OHS Bulletin Board, forward a copy of the report to the JOHSC, and advise other parties who may be affected by the report.

2.5.3 Orders by OHSD Occupational Health and Safety OfficersWhere the results of the inspection or investigation by the Occupational Health and Safety Officer of the OHSD indicate that there has been a violation of a duty imposed by the Occupational Health and Safety Act, including provisions of the regulations or standards referenced in the regulations, the Officer is authorized to issue orders for

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corrective action to be taken. These orders may include a requirement for work related to the violation or any imminent hazard to cease until the hazard has been removed (“stop work” orders).

Each order will have a date by which the Occupational Health and Safety Division of Labour and Advanced Education must be notified of compliance. Copies of the orders must immediately be posted on the OHS bulletin boards. A copy of the order must be sent immediately to the Occupational Health and Safety Section, Human Resources.

A compliance form attached to the order must be used to notify the Occupational Health and Safety Division of Labour and Advanced Education of the action SMUSA has taken to comply with the orders. A process exists for the appeal of orders which are not regarded as appropriate or to request an extension to the time allowed for compliance. Since there may be implications for other parts of SMUSA, the Occupational Health and Safety Section, Human Resources must be consulted regarding the action contemplated to comply with the orders and the completion of the compliance form before the form is sent to the OHSD. The Occupational Health and Safety Section, Human Resources will consult with the managers of those parts of SMUSA which will/may be affected regarding any SMUSA-wide implication of the orders and the required corrective action. A copy of the compliance form must immediately be posted on the OHS bulletin board. A copy of the compliance form must be sent to the Occupational Health and Safety Section, Human Resources.

2.5.4 Prosecutions by Nova Scotia Labour and Advanced EducationWhere, in the course of an inspection or investigation, the OHSD Occupational Health and Safety Officer believes that there has been a serious violation of the Occupational Health and Safety Act, they may decide that prosecution of SMUSA, or of individual managers, supervisors or employees in the courts is an option.

In such circumstances, the nature of the investigation will change to gathering evidence in support of possible charges under the OHS Act. At this point, the Occupational Health and Safety Officer will “caution” any person being interviewed that charges are possible and that anything said may be used as evidence in court. This “caution” is given to provide an opportunity to decide whether or not to consult with legal counsel before answering any further questions. Immediately on being given the “caution”, the manager, supervisor or employee should notify their manager and the Occupational Health and Safety Section, Human Resources, who will consult with those involved. These consultations will decide on the need for legal counsel to be present during further interviews, to advise the manager(s), supervisor(s) and employee(s), and to represent SMUSA.

If the investigation results in charges being laid against SMUSA or individual managers, supervisors or employees, legal counsel will be provided to advise on the legal proceedings, preparation of a defence, attendance and giving evidence in court, etc.

2.5.5 Response by SMUSA personnel to OHSD activitiesAll SMUSA employees must co-operate with an Occupational Health and Safety Officer of the Occupational Health and Safety Division in the performance of their duties. This includes granting access to the workplace, allowing inspection of facilities and

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equipment, and making employees available for interviews. Any orders issued must be addressed at once, with particular attention being given to any prohibitions on the use of certain equipment or conduct of certain operations (stop work) and notice taken of the date by which corrective action must be taken.

The Occupational Health and Safety Officer must be notified of the corrective action by the deadline for each Order. Where it has not been possible to complete the corrective action, the progress toward compliance must be reported, including the action taken and the schedule for completing the corrective action. The response to the orders must be in writing and should be discussed with the Occupational Health and Safety Section, Human Resources before being sent to the OHSD.

Where inspections or investigations have been undertaken, the reports resulting from these should be discussed at the next meeting of the JOHS Committee. Any orders issued and compliance notices sent to the OHSD should be discussed at the next meeting of SMUSA Board, Management Group, and the next meeting of the JOHS Committee.

In the situation where the Occupational Health and Safety Officer is contemplating the possibility of laying charges, the nature of the investigation will change. The Officer must then “caution” SMUSA and any managers or employees that they wish to interview.

2.6 Applicable regulationsThere are a number of regulations under the Occupational Health and Safety Act. These provide much more detail about specific responsibilities, equipment, processes and relevant standards which apply to particular operations. Not all regulations or all sections of a particular regulation may be applicable to a SMUSA, but those which are applicable, including any standards referenced, carry the same force of law as the Act. These regulations may be accessed on-line on the government web site at http://www.gov.ns.ca/just/regulations/rxam-z.htm#ohs.

Additionally, for some regulations “plain language guides” and other non-technical information are available at: http://www.gov.ns.ca/lae/pubs/.

2.7 Applicable standardsSome regulations make reference to standards which have been developed by multi-party consensus processes or industry associations. These provide more detail than the regulations, particularly with respect to design, manufacture, installation, inspection and maintenance of building systems, tools, equipment or protective devices.

When referenced by the regulations, these standards have the same force of law as the regulation and may be reviewed for compliance by an Occupational Health and Safety Officer during an inspection or investigation. Orders can be issued for non-compliance with the standard, and serious breaches may result in prosecution.

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2.8 Owner’s Manuals/Manufacturer’s SpecificationsThe NS Occupational Safety General Regulations define manufacturer’s specifications as “written instructions of a manufacturer of a machine, material, tool or equipment that outline how the machine, material, tool or equipment is to be erected, installed, assemble, started, operated, used, handled, stored, stopped, adjusted, carried, maintained, repaired, inspected, serviced, tested, cleaned or dismantled, and an instruction, operating or maintenance manual and drawings respecting a machine, tool or equipment”. Any mandatory actions required by specifications (must, shall) are enforceable under the Regulations. For each new piece of equipment, machinery, tools, or personal protective equipment purchased or rented, the owner’s manual/manufacturers specifications must be reviewed and any mandatory requirements implemented. Additionally, employees must be trained in any safety requirements in the owner’s manuals/manufacturers specifications.

2.9 Workers’ CompensationThe Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) does not have regulations respecting workplace health or safety, although it does have some prevention services which may offer useful training or resource materials. If an employee is injured or killed on the job or develops an occupational illness or disease, and is covered by WCB, the “no-fault” system of insurance administered by the WCB will deal with claims from the employee or his/her survivors. For further information, contact the Occupational Health and Safety Section, Human Resources.

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Chapter 3: Hazard Identification, Risk Assessment and Risk Control3.1 Introduction...........................................................................................................163.2 Formal hazard assessments.................................................................................16

3.2.1 Responsibility.................................................................................................16

3.2.2 Hazard assessment asks “What if?”...............................................................16

3.2.3 The hazard assessment process....................................................................17

3.3 Step 1: Hazard identification: Inventory................................................................173.3.1 Hazard identification perspectives..................................................................17

3.3.1 Hazard categories..........................................................................................18

3.4 Step 2: Risk assessment/Hazard rating................................................................183.4.1 Severity of risk................................................................................................18

3.4.2 Probability of risk............................................................................................19

3.4.3 Relative risk/Significance of hazards..............................................................19

3.4.4 Setting hazard priority.....................................................................................20

3.5 Risk control...........................................................................................................213.5.1 Categories of hazard controls.........................................................................21

3.5.2 Risk control analysis.......................................................................................22

3.5.3 Review of control measures...........................................................................22

3.6 Action plan and follow up......................................................................................233.7 Informal hazard assessments before undertaking hazardous tasks.....................233.8 Safe Work Practices.............................................................................................24

3.8.1 Responsibilities for ensuring compliance with safe work practices.................243.9 Use of Personal Protective Equipment.................................................................253.10 Maintenance policies.....................................................................................25

3.10.1 Facilities.....................................................................................................253.10.2 Equipment ……………………………………………………………………….25

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Chapter 3:Hazard Identification, Risk Assessment and Risk Control

3.1 IntroductionHazard identification, risk assessment and risk control (sometimes referred to as just hazard assessment) is the starting point of all preventive efforts of an Occupational Health and Safety Program. We must be able to identify potential hazards in the workplace in order to be able to take action to eliminate or control them. Identification and control of hazards is a management function in just the same way as managing work flow, productivity, timeliness, cost or quality.

The hazard identification, risk assessment and risk control process is so important that it needs to be implemented both as a periodic formal exercise and as an ongoing informal exercise whenever a hazardous task is undertaken. Both are described in this chapter.

3.2 Formal hazard assessmentsFormal hazard identification, risk assessment and risk control must be an ongoing process, not just a one-time exercise. A hazard assessment process must be:

Completed for all workplaces and operations as an initial step in setting up a Health and Safety Program;

Performed at the start of any work which is new to the work group; Performed whenever there is a significant change to a building, equipment

or work procedure; and Reviewed yearly, to ensure that all information is current and that hazard

controls are appropriate and in place.

3.2.1 ResponsibilityIt is the responsibility of SMUSA Manager to ensure that the formal hazard assessment process has been undertaken.

3.2.2 Hazard assessment asks “What if?”Hazard Assessment is mainly an anticipatory function which tries to identify actual or potential hazards associated with existing or planned work, including evaluation of the materials, processes and equipment associated with that work and the environment in which it is or will be undertaken. The hazard identification, risk assessment and risk control process requires:

the input of persons who have experience doing the existing work or the new work which is planned or have developed the plan for new work;

a review of relevant occupational health and safety statistics, inspection reports, incident or near miss investigations, and records of concerns, complaints and work refusals;

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reference to published information or anecdotal evidence on similar hazards or work places to identify hazards which are known to exist in similar industries;

consideration of applicable regulations and standards; and finally if the work is underway or the work area is ready for work to commence, a

visit to the actual work site(s).

There is frequent confusion between the hazard identification, risk assessment, and risk control process and site inspections. The two functions may appear similar in nature, but they have different purposes and are undertaken using different techniques. Inspections deal with identifying present problems in the work place and are done by physically touring the location. When doing an inspection, one asks “WHAT IS”? For information on the inspection process, please see Chapter 13 of this Manual.

When doing a hazard assessment, we ask: “WHAT IF”? We try to identify both present and potential problems. What can, or has the potential to, harm people? The hazard identification, risk assessment and risk control process tries to identify not only what actual hazards have already been found but also what hazards may potentially exist in the workplace.

3.2.3 The hazard assessment processThe hazard assessment process includes the following three steps:

Hazard Identification: compiling an inventory of actual and potential hazards;

Risk Assessment: rating and prioritizing the hazards; and Risk Control: identifying controls presently in place and/or developing

controls to be put in place to eliminate or reduce the impact of each hazard. This includes engineering controls, safety rules, safe work practices, training, etc., so that the work can be undertaken in a safe and healthful manner.

3.3 Step 1: Hazard identification: InventoryThe first step in the hazard assessment process is to produce a list of hazards.

3.3.1 Hazard identification perspectivesTo develop a comprehensive list of hazards, one must examine all aspects of the work activity. This is most effectively done by looking at the work from several perspectives. The following “4Ps” help to remember these perspectives:

the Product or service produced; the Process or tasks undertaken to produce the product or service,

including any equipment which is used; the Place or work environment, including the physical environment

(building, vehicle, field activities, etc.) and ventilation, lighting, weather, etc. where the work is done; and

the People or employees who do the work, including their occupations and duties. Do not forget employees who may be present at other times,

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such as visitors, custodial or maintenance staff, or contracted workers or the employees of other employers who may be on site for some special purpose. Look at the duties undertaken by each category of employee. Also consider our students, clients and members of the public.

3.3.1 Hazard categoriesThere are a wide variety of workplace hazards, but generally they can be grouped into five categories. Considering each category when doing a hazard assessment will help the list of hazards to be complete:

Physical hazards include the group of hazards usually thought of as “safety”. This includes mechanical hazards such as getting caught in machinery, pinched, crushed or run over. It also includes hazards such as things falling on you, falls from heights, slips and trips. Finally, it includes various forms of energy, including electricity, ultra-violet and infrared light, microwaves, radio waves, ionizing radiation, noise, extremes of temperature, and fire and explosion;

Chemical hazards include airborne gases, vapours, mists, dusts, and fumes as well as solids and liquids. Routes of exposure to chemical hazards include the skin (and eyes), ingestion (eating) and inhalation (breathing);

Biological hazards include dangerous animals (bites, stings, etc.), allergic or toxic reactions to plants and animals (waste, dander, etc.), micro-organisms (mold, mildew, etc.,) and infectious diseases (including vector-borne, airborne and those transmitted via body fluids);

Ergonomic hazards include the interaction between people and machines (computers, controls, readouts, gages, signals, etc.) or equipment (seating, workstation design, etc.) and environmental conditions relative to human performance and comfort such as lighting, thermal environment, body position and repetitive motion; and

Psycho-social hazards include such things as work-related violence, work related stress, boredom, and sleep deprivation.

3.4 Step 2: Risk assessment/Hazard ratingOnce a list of present and potential hazards has been developed, each of these hazards must be rated on both the Severity (Hazard Consequence) of the occurrence and the Probability of it occurring.

3.4.1 Severity of riskSeverity of risk is a way of rating the consequence or impact of a hazard, if an incident does occur. We look at the worst possible severity of the outcome, using a four level scale:

4. Catastrophic - may cause death, permanent disabling injury or loss of facility (e.g.: fall from a high platform, shooter on campus, or major fire);

3. Serious - may cause severe (hospitalization or lost time) injury not resulting in permanent disability, severe occupational illness, or major

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property damage (e.g.: a slip on wet flooring leading to a fall and broken hip, an abusive client who makes threats against employees or the Campus, or major contamination of a building by mould);

2. Marginal - may cause non-serious injury or minor occupational illness resulting in lost time or minor property damage (e.g.: minor ergonomic problems such as poor seating, an abusive client causing employee stress, or damaged furniture); and

1. Negligible - would not result in an injury and would not affect employee health or cause significant property damage (e.g.: a rude client, or a chip in the paint of a doorway).

3.4.2 Probability of riskProbability of risk is the likelihood that an incident will occur, regardless of what the outcome might be. We use the following five level scale:

5. Frequent: will likely happen often in the next year;

4. Likely: will likely occur in the next year;

3. Occasional: will likely happen sometime in the next several years;

2. Remote: unlikely, but event could be experienced in the next several years; and

1. Highly Unlikely: event will likely never occur.

3.4.3 Relative risk/Significance of hazardsOnce each hazard has been rated on the likely severity of its outcome and the probability of it occurring, using the criteria above, the scores need to be combined so that the relative risk/overall significance of each can be determined.

We can calculate the relative risk of each of the hazards which has been identified by multiplying the severity and probability values for each to create a numerical rating. These ratings will identity the level of risk for each hazard identified relative to the others. The higher the number, the higher the risk and the more urgent it is to implement controls that will reduce both the probability of occurrence and the severity of the outcome if an incident should occur. The relative risk of hazards with various severity and probability ratings is demonstrated in the following table.

SEVERITY OR IMPACT4

Catastrophic3

Critical2

Marginal1

Negligible

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PROBABILITY

5Frequent 20 15 10 5

4Likely 16 12 8 4

3Occasional 12 9 6 3

2Remote 8 6 4 2

1Highly

Unlikely4 3 2 1

3.4.4 Setting hazard priority

This is the place in the process where the hazards are prioritized with the most serious hazards being those with a rating of 20 and the least serious having a rating of 1. Create a list with all the hazards in the order of their ratings. Start with the highest priority hazard and attempt to put controls for that hazard in place first, and then work down the list until all hazards are controlled.

Generally, any hazard which has a rating of 10 or higher on the hazard rating grid (see shaded area on grid below) should be regarded as a “Significant Hazard” for which a Safe Work Practice should be developed to complement and ensure implementation of any other hazard controls.

SEVERITY OR IMPACT

4Catastrophic

3Critical

2Marginal

1Negligible

P5

Frequent 20 15 10 5

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ROBABILITY

4Likely 16 12 8 4

3Occasional 12 9 6 3

2Remote 8 6 4 2

1Highly

Unlikely4 3 2 1

3.5 Risk controlThere are a number of possibilities for controlling each of the hazards which has been identified. Each hazard moves from its source, along a path, and eventually reaches the employee or the workplace. The hazard could be physical energy, a sharp object, a weapon, noise, radiation, a chemical vapour, etc., but all have a source, a path and may eventually reach the employee or affect the workplace. Therefore, control strategies may be effective by trying to affect the source, interrupt the path, or provide protection to the employee or the workplace at the point where the hazard reaches the employee or the workplace.

3.5.1 Categories of hazard controls

Generally, the control method(s) will be found in the following categories:

Elimination: Whenever possible, remove the hazard completely through elimination. Examples include automating a function to eliminate manual handling, eliminating the use of a toxic chemical, eliminating the use of a piece of dangerous equipment, or the performance of a dangerous task.

Substitution: Where the hazard cannot be eliminated, consider alternatives to the processes, substances, machines or equipment being used. Substitution may reduce the risk of injury or illness to an acceptable level.

Engineering Controls: Engineering controls involve the design of the workplace and its related processes. Engineering controls include

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ventilation systems, guards on equipment, fire suppression systems and enclosing of noisy machinery.

Administrative controls: Where the hazard cannot be eliminated, and where substitution and engineering controls do not adequately manage the hazard, administrative controls are frequently introduced to lessen the risk. Administrative controls include developing Safe Work Practices or new policies, training and supervision. Approaches such as scheduling work, job rotation, procurement policies for equipment and materials, relocating employees from construction zones, etc. should also be considered.

Personal Protective Equipment: Is the final line of defence. The requirement to rely on Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is an admission that it has not been possible to eliminate the hazard or reduce it to an acceptable level by the use of other controls. This is the most unreliable control because it is dependent on correct choice of PPE, correct fitting, the service life of the PPE, employee compliance with use, and proper choice/decision about when to wear. There are lots of places for system failure. Therefore, normally, the use of PPE will require other administrative controls, such as development of a policy requiring use, development of a Safe Work Practice, employee training, supervision etc. to supplement this control option.

3.5.2 Risk control analysisTo assist in the analysis of the risk associated with each hazard that has been identified by the Hazard Identification process, the Risk Control Analysis Form in Appendix B should be completed. Starting with the most serious hazards first, identify hazard control measures for each hazard.The degree of detail in the procedures will vary with the risk and the complexity of the task involved. High risk, complex tasks will require very detailed procedures.

3.5.3 Review of control measuresStarting with the most serious hazards first, review the controls which are needed to reduce the risk for each hazard to an acceptable level. Are these controls in place? If so, they should be noted on an Inspection Checklist or Safe Work Practice.

If not, an action plan should be developed.

3.6 Action plan and follow upOnce all hazards have been inventoried and controls identified, through the Hazard Identification, Risk Assessment and Risk Control Process and completion of the Risk Control Analysis Forms, an Action Plan is needed to ensure that any additional controls which are required are developed and implemented.

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The Action Plan is an essential part of the OHS Program and supports the continuous improvement and due diligence goals of the OHS Program. The Action Plan may involve considerable additional work, including development and approval of policies, development of Safe Work Practices, design and installation of engineering controls, purchase of personal protective equipment, ergonomic assessment of workstations, employee training, etc. There may be implications for capital and operational budgets which will require additional planning, justification, approval and implementation.

Each item on the Action Plan must have responsibility assigned and a completion date or milestone dates established. A record must be kept of action on each item to ensure that progress continues and to document continuous improvement and due diligence. The General Manager, SMUSA, will monitor the Action Plan to ensure that progress is being made on all action items. The Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committee will be advised of the progress on any outstanding items on the Hazard Identification, Risk Assessment and Risk Control Process.

The final stage of the Hazard Identification, Risk Assessment and Risk Control process is to use results and all the controls which have been developed as inputs to the ongoing schedule of inspections, so that the inspection of each area will be focused on the observed and potential hazards present in that area and the control measures which have been identified as necessary. The ongoing presence and effectiveness of those controls must be included in the list of items observed during the inspection (inspection check list). Please see Chapter 13: Inspections for a discussion of the inspection process.

3.7 Informal hazard assessments before undertaking hazardous tasksAs well as the formal hazard assessment process, it is important for employees and supervisors to use a similar informal process every time work is undertaken. This process does not need to be formally documented, although notes or a checklist may be useful. It requires only a minute or two to complete and consists of five steps:

Stop and think before each task; Identify the hazards associated with the task. Is there anything unusual about

the task or the place it will be done? Assess the risks associated with the hazards. How serious or probable are

they? Is it safe to do the task? What controls are necessary? Refer to the Safe Work Practice if there is one.

Evaluate hazard controls which are in place, including guards, pre-use inspection, training, personal protective equipment, or anything else that needs to be done before the task can be done safely. Are the necessary controls present? If not, get them in place before work begins.

Resume work.

3.8 Safe Work PracticesAt SMUSA, Safe Work Practices shall be developed to supplement employee training, complement and ensure implementation of any hazard controls, and provide a ready reference for the proper method of undertaking a hazardous task. A safe work practice lists all the health

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and safety precautions which must be taken before the task may be started, while it is being done, and at its completion.

The precautions are not in any particular order and they must all be observed while the work is in progress.

Each Safe Work Practice shall include reference to: the hazard(s) presented; task-specific personal protective equipment required, if any; manufacture specifications mandatory requirements, if any; hazard-specific training required, if any; regulations and standards which apply to the hazard, if any; and work practices which are designed to mitigate or control the hazard(s).

A Safe Work Practice: shall be developed for any hazard which has been rated as “Significant” by the Hazard

Recognition, Risk Assessment and Risk Control process (see Chapter 3 of this manual): and

may also be developed for other hazards with a lower hazard rating, where it is deemed beneficial to have such a reference available for employee instruction.

Some hazards may be referenced in more than one Safe Work Practice, in which case supervisors and employees shall take note of the precautions and procedures identified in each.

A Form at the end of this Chapter provides an example of the standard format which is used for a Safe Work Practice.

3.8.1 Responsibilities for ensuring compliance with safe work practices The safe work practices which apply to each employee will vary with the tasks undertaken. Therefore:

the manager or supervisor of each functional unit shall ensure that those safe work practices which apply to each the employees of that functional unit are readily available at the workplace;

when an employee is assigned for the first time to undertake a hazardous task, or one which is potentially hazardous, the supervisor or manager shall ensure that the employee is instructed in all safe work relevant to the performance of the task;

in reviewing the safe work practice with the employee, the supervisor, manager or trainer shall note any personal protective equipment or hazard-specific training required, regulations or standards quoted and the specific precautions or procedures which are outlined in the document;

the employee shall request clarification, explanation or demonstration of any requirements which are unclear; and

each manager or supervisor shall ensure that all employees undertaking a hazardous task are familiar with all safe work practices relevant to the task and that the prescribed precautions and procedures are followed.

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3.9 Use of Personal Protective EquipmentFor SMUSA, personal protective equipment shall be supplied and worn where required, as determined by the hazard assessment process. Whenever a situation arises where the use of personal protective equipment may be required, the University OHS Office should be consulted for professional advice and relevant standards to assist those involved in the development, review or revision of a hazard control strategy, safe work practice, inspection form or pre-operation checklist. The SMUSA JOHS Committee shall be advised of these situations and shall be provided the opportunity to provide input on the selection and use of personal protective equipment which is regarded as adequately protective for the task to be undertaken and the hazard(s) presented.

3.10 Maintenance policiesSMUSA is committed to ensuring that all buildings, work spaces, equipment and tools are maintained in a condition of good repair, thus minimizing the risk of injury or illness to employees, students, and the public and of damage to property.

3.10.1 Facilities

At SMUSA, all facilities shall be kept in a state of good repair and shall be maintained according to standards established by Facilities Management. Facilities Management shall ensure that records are kept of these activities.

3.10.2 Equipment

No equipment, shall be used if it is not in good working order, with all guards and safety devices in place.

Users of equipment shall conduct a pre-operation check of the equipment prior to operation to verify operation of all systems and safety components, including a visual inspection to check for wear and a visual inspection of all electrical systems and components, checking for loose connections, frayed insulation, etc.

Any equipment not in good working order shall be immediately removed from service and tagged “OUT OF SERVICE.” It shall be repaired or replaced and inspected by a qualified person before being placed back in service. Records of all preventive maintenance and repairs shall be kept for the life of the equipment, by the appropriate Department.

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Chapter 4: Emergency Prevention, Preparedness and Response4.1 Prevention, Preparation for and Response to Emergencies.................................274.2 Emergency Quick Reference Guide.....................................................................274.3 Mass Notification System.....................................................................................274.4 First Aid for Worksite Injuries and Illnesses..........................................................28

4.4.1 Standards for first aid.............................................................................28

4.4.3 First Aid Room.......................................................................................28

4.4.4 Vehicles.................................................................................................28

4.4.5 Automatic External Defibrillators............................................................28

4.4.6 Number and qualification of first aid attendants.....................................28

4.4.7 First aid attendant responsibilities.........................................................28

4.4.9 Transportation of the injured and seriously ill........................................29

4.4.10 Record keeping....................................................................................29

4.4.11 Reporting and investigation.................................................................29

4.4.12 First aid supplies..................................................................................30

4.5 Fire Safety and Emergency Evacuation Plans.....................................................304.6 Workplace Violence Prevention Policy.................................................................304.7 Use of Chemicals.................................................................................................31

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Chapter 4:Emergency Prevention, Preparedness and Response

4.1 Prevention, Preparation for and Response to EmergenciesSaint Mary’s University has identified a wide variety of potential emergency situations, ranging from work related injuries to fires, building system failures, incidents of violence, and adverse weather conditions. SMUSA will follow emergency policy and procedures as developed by Saint Mary’s University. This policy may be found at http://www.smu.ca/webfiles/5-1006EmergencyMgtPolicyandPlan.pdf. SMUSA will develop emergency response plans specific to their needs.

4.2 Emergency Quick Reference GuideSaint Mary’s University has produced an Emergency Reference Guide that is available to SMUSA for all employees and students, both on-line and in hard copy, when requested. The guide is intended to provide basic information to assist employees and students when an emergency occurs. Hard copies of the guide are available from the Saint Mary’s University OHS Office. It is also posted on the Facilities Management Website at: http://www.smu.ca/emergencymanagement/response.html.

4.3 Mass Notification SystemSaint Mary’s University has an emergency mass notification speaker system. In the event of an emergency, the notification will instruct you to evacuate the building or seek shelter in place (your current location). Once advised to evacuate, leave the building immediately. Please note if you hear the message “Lockdown”, this is the most serious message and means there is a person on campus using a weapon. If you hear the message, “Shelter in Place”, this means Security has received a report that there is a person on campus with a weapon, but the person is not using the weapon at the time.

If Lockdown or Shelter in Place

(E.g. in case of a potentially armed person on campus) Lock doors Turn off the lights Turn off radios and televisions Turn phones to vibrate Stay quiet and out of sight

If Evacuation (e.g. in case of fire or bomb threat):

Move to the nearest exit (in case of fire, check doors for heat before opening) Do not use the elevators Walk out of the building Assist others Move away from the building Watch for falling items or other hazards

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Alert emergency personnel about people that could not be evacuated Do not re-enter the building until notified by emergency personnel

4.4 First Aid for Worksite Injuries and IllnessesPrompt, effective first aid is a priority in an emergency where individuals are injured or become seriously ill. Provision of an organized first aid response is therefore part of SMUSA’s commitment to providing a healthy and safe work environment for its employees, students and other persons present on campus.

4.4.1 Standards for first aidIn Nova Scotia, the First Aid Regulations set the standards for the provision of first aid services at worksites. A copy of these regulations may be found on the NS Justice website at http://www.gov.ns.ca/just/regulations/regs/ohsfirst.htm.

4.4.2 First Aid RoomThe Student Health Services Clinic has been designated as the University’s First Aid Room. Any employees who have been injured at work, and do not require emergency transportation, may visit the clinic for assistance

4.4.3 VehiclesThe OHS Act deems a vehicle, whether a personal vehicle or rented vehicle, to be a workplace when the vehicle is used for work purposes. All vehicles, used for work purposes, must carry a # 2 First Aid Kit. Employees who regularly travel alone are expected to have first aid training.

4.4.4 Automatic External DefibrillatorsFive Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs) are available on Campus, and the applicable First Aid Attendants have been trained in its use. The AEDs are located at the MM016 Security desk, the Homburg Centre, the Arena, the Science Building, second floor, and first floor of the Student Centre.

4.4.5 Number and qualification of first aid attendantsRecognising the requirement that a First Aid Attendant be available at all times for all shifts, all Security Officers are qualified First Aid Attendants. A list of First Aid Attendants may be found at: http://www.smu.ca/administration/ohs/first_aid.html. Additionally, SMUSA will train staff and post the names of SMUSA staff trained in first aid on the SMUSA OHS Bulletin Board.

4.4.6 First aid attendant responsibilitiesIt is the responsibility of each First Aid Attendant to:

administer first aid as required; when a person has been seriously injured or is seriously ill and requires

follow-up to the first aid which has been administered, ensure that arrangements are made for transportation to a medical facility where they can receive immediate and appropriate medical aid;

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carry out the duties defined by the Occupational Health and Safety First Aid Regulations, Section 11: Duties of First Aid Attendants;

create records of first aid which they have administered as required by the Occupational Health and Safety First Aid Regulations, Section 8 (see Appendix A at the end of this Chapter of the OHS Program;

ensure that first aid supplies are accessible and maintained as required by the Occupational Health and Safety First Aid Regulations, Sections 9, 10, 15 and 16 (See Appendices B and C at the end of this Chapter of the OHS Program for checklists of required contents); and

Maintain their certification as a First Aid Attendant.

4.4.7 Transportation of the injured and seriously illWhen a person has been seriously injured or is seriously ill and requires follow-up to the first aid which has been administered, SMUSA will ensure that arrangements are made for the injured person to be transported to a medical facility where they can receive immediate medical aid.

Note that employee vehicles should not be used for this purpose. In some situations, such as for transport to a doctor’s office or clinic, a taxi may be appropriate, provided that the injured person is accompanied by another person, in addition to the driver, when the injured person may require assistance of another person. Otherwise, an ambulance should be called (911 and 420-5000).

4.4.8 Record keepingSection 8 of the First Aid Regulations requires: “Creation and maintenance of records Where a first aid attendant administers first aid to an injured person at a worksite, the employer of the injured person shall, with respect to that person, maintain a written record for 5 years after the date of injury including the following:

(a) The name of the injured person; (b) The date and time of the injury; (c) The location and nature of the injuries on the person's body; (d) The time when first aid was administered; (e) The first aid treatment provided; (f) The name of the person who provided the first aid; and (g) The name of the person to whom the injury was reported.”

The First Aid Attendant shall complete the record using the form in Appendix A at the end of this chapter. When the record forms are full or at the end of the fiscal year, the First Aid Attendant shall forward the records to the General Manager, SMUSA. The records shall be maintained for five years following the end of the fiscal year.

4.4.9 Reporting and investigationAll incidents requiring the administration of first aid shall be reported and investigated to determine the cause and the steps required to prevent a recurrence.

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4.4.10 First aid suppliesSection 10 of the First Aid Regulations stipulates conditions to be maintained respecting first aid supplies. Insert text on where SMUSA first aid kits are located.

The contents of first aid kits are prescribed in the First Aid Regulations. One of the duties of First Aid Attendants is to keep the kit fully supplied. The First Aid Attendant shall inspect the first aid kit, as needed, and at the end of each fiscal year, completing the checklist in Appendix B for a NS #2 Kit and the checklist in Appendix C for a NS #3 Kit.

4.5 Fire Safety and Emergency Evacuation PlansFacilities Management has the responsibility to ensure that fire safety and emergency evacuation plans have been developed, all the provisions of fire and building codes are being observed, protective systems are in place and are operational, building systems are periodically tested, and drills are undertaken periodically. A copy of the plan can be found at: http://www.smu.ca/webfiles/FirePlanRevisionFebruary2012.pdf

Facilities Management has developed and implemented a system of Fire Wardens for each location where SMUSA has employees. Fire Wardens have been appointed to assist in evacuating buildings. It is important for all persons on the Campus to cooperate with the Fire Wardens and to follow any instructions they are given. A list of fire warden duties is located at: http://www.smu.ca/webfiles/FMGMT.pdf.

4.6 Workplace Violence Prevention PolicyRecognizing the potential for violence in the University and in compliance with the Violence in the Workplace Regulations, the SMUSA has assessed the potential for violence and has decided to follow the University’s Workplace Violence Prevention Policy. This document is available on the University OHS Website at: http://www.smu.ca/policy/documents/6-2001ViolenceWorkplace.pdf.

The University offers an information session is offered to all employees to ensure awareness of the policy. SMUSA staff will be invited to attend these information sessions. Additionally, upon request, where required, the following workshops can be customized and delivered to employees:

Critical Skills for Communicating in Conflict Asserting Yourself in Conflict Situations Managing the Hostile Individual Anger Management Shifting from Positions to Interests Understanding and Managing Harassment and Discrimination

To help ensure safety and prevent incidents, the Security Department has implemented a Lone Worker/Student and a Safe Walk Program.

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Lone Worker/Student:

Anyone who is working alone on campus, or after normal working hours, should advise Security and they will ensure Officers will check your location on their regular patrols.

Safe Walk: SMU Security offers a safe walk program to all members of SMU community and visitors. A SMUSA Security Officer will provide an escort anywhere on SMUSA property.

Both programs are available 24 hours, seven days a week by contacting SMUSA Security at 902-420-5577.

Additionally, SMUSA has created a “Safe Drive Program for Students” – the Husky Patrol. Please see: http://smusa.ca/services/husky-patrol/, for more information on the program.

4.7 Use of Chemicals

The OHS Act gives employees the “Right to Know” about hazards in the workplace and gives the employer the responsibility to provide information to employees on these hazards. Section 59 of the OHS Act requires employers to prepare a list of all chemical substances regularly used, handled, produced or otherwise present at the workplace that may be a hazard to the health or safety of the employees or that are suspected by the employees of being a hazard. To be in compliance with the OHS Act, WHMIS Regulations, and the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Regulations and to aid fire fighters and other emergency responders, SMUSA will maintain a system whereby chemical inventories are developed and maintained, Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs) will be obtained, when required, and training will be provided to employees, as required.

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Chapter 5: Competence and Training5.1 Introduction...........................................................................................................335.2 Standards for Competence and Training Activities...............................................33

5.2.1 Responsibility for training................................................................................33

5.2.4 Ensuring that employees are aware of OHS Program requirements..............33

5.3 SMUSA OHS Training Grid..................................................................................335.4 Compliance with OHS Policy, Legal Requirements and Applicable Procedures. .345.5 Consequences of Non-compliance: External Legal Action...................................345.6 Consequences of Non-compliance: Internal Corrective Action.............................34

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Chapter 5:Competence and Training

5.1 IntroductionTraining is recognized as a key component of ensuring the health and safety of employees and of other persons at SMUSA. An effective training program will mean that incidents will be eliminated or at least reduced in frequency or severity. SMUSA is committed to the objective that all employees have the necessary safety and related training to perform their duties in a healthy, safe and competent manner.

5.2 Standards for Competence and Training ActivitiesWorking in a healthy and safe manner is a condition of employment at SMUSA. SMUSA will participate in University safety training, where applicable. The General Manager, SMUSA, will develop and provide opportunity for training for Managers and JOHSC. Management representatives will be held accountable for the health and safety of employees under their direction, and for maintaining a safe and healthy work environment.

Employees will be trained, must follow safety policies, practices and procedures and are required to co-operate with management, the Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committee, and any person exercising authority under the Occupational Health and Safety Act.

5.2.1 Responsibility for trainingThe General Manager, SMUSA, shall ensure that:

training needs are identified; appropriate training is provided to all employees, including refresher

training as required; employees are properly trained for their assigned tasks, including

orientation, generic training and specific on-the job training; and Training records are maintained.

Employees shall: participate in all the training provided or authorized by SMUSA; and Apply that training to their jobs to enable them to work in a safe, healthy

and responsible manner.

5.2.4 Ensuring that employees are aware of OHS Program requirementsAll employees shall be provided the opportunity to attend an orientation session on the OHS Program which includes an overview of the SMUSA OHS Program and their rights and responsibilities under the OHS Act.

5.3 SMUSA OHS Training GridThe following table identifies minimum training for employees.

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All Employees, i

Two-hour Introduction to OHS Course, including: SMUSA’s OHS Program and roles and responsibilities of the employer, employees, and safety committees; procedure for concerns or complaints, procedure for unsafe work refusal, Safe Work Practices, rules, corrective action and emergency response procedures

Orientation to the University Violence in the Workplace: Prevention and Response Policy and Sexual Assault Policy and Procedures

Orientation to Emergency Management Plan Awareness Plan WHMIS Generic training, where required

JOHSC Minimum training would be the one-day Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committee Course

JOHS Committee Members involved in inspections or incident investigations should have additional training in these subjects.

5.4 Compliance with OHS Policy, Legal Requirements and Applicable ProceduresManagement and employees will be held accountable for complying with the OHS Act and regulations, SMUSA’s OHS Program, and all applicable occupational health and safety standards, rules, and safe work practices.

5.5 Consequences of Non-compliance: External Legal ActionWhere an Occupational Health and Safety Officer, working under the authority of the OHS Act, determines that there has been a violation of a duty imposed by the Act, including provisions of the regulations or standards referenced in the regulations, the Officer is authorized to issue Orders for corrective action to be taken

Where there has been a serious violation of the Act, OHS regulations, or standards referenced within the regulations, SMUSA or individual may be prosecuted under the OHS Act.

Where there has been a serious violation which results in bodily injury or death, SMUSA or an individual may be charged under the Criminal Code of Canada.

5.6 Consequences of Non-compliance: Internal Corrective ActionCorrective action resulting from a violation of OHS requirements shall be progressive and shall be appropriate to the nature of the contravention, the seriousness of the offence, previous violations, and any extenuating circumstances. Each situation shall be evaluated on its own merits and corrective action appropriate to the circumstances taken.

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Chapter 6: Communication and Awareness6.1 Introduction...........................................................................................................366.2 Awareness of the SMUSA OHS Program.............................................................366.3 Awareness of SMUSA OHS Policy.......................................................................366.4 OHS bulletin boards and readily available information.........................................366.5 Procedure for reporting workplace hazards..........................................................376.6 Reporting workplace injuries and occupational illnesses......................................376.7 Reporting Employee Safety Concerns Procedure (other than incidents and refusals to work).........................................................................................................38

6.7.1 Step 1 - Report to his/her manager................................................................38

6.7.2 Step 2 - Formal referral to the JOHS Committee............................................39

6.7.3 Step 3 - Formal referral to the OHS Division, Department of Labour and Advanced Education................................................................................................39

6.8 Unsafe work refusals under the OHS Act.............................................................396.8.1 Step 1 - Report to a manager.........................................................................39

6.8.2 Step 2 - Formal referral to the JOHS Committee............................................40

6.8.3 Step 3 - Formal referral to the OHS Division, Department of Labour and Advanced Education................................................................................................40

6.9 Consultation with SMU Occupational Health and Safety Staff..............................416.10 Employee Suggestions.......................................................................................41

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Chapter 6:Communication and Awareness

6.1 IntroductionCommunication with employees regarding all aspects of the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) program and establishment of systems for dealing with employee concerns or suggestions are key elements of the OHS Program and are also fundamental to the Internal Responsibility System upon which the Nova Scotia OHS Act is based.

This chapter of the OHS Program deals with systems for making employees aware of occupational health and safety, reporting hazards or incidents, refusing work which an employee believes to be unsafe, and with making suggestions to improve the OHS program.

6.2 Awareness of the SMUSA OHS ProgramA hard copy of this manual is available at the main SMUSA Offices. All employees must be orientated to the OHS program, including basic information on the OHS Program and how employees are to respond to OHS matters, and including cooperation with the employer, reporting of hazards, etc.

6.3 Awareness of SMUSA OHS Policy A copy of the current version of SMUSA OHS Policy is posted on SMUSA OHS Bulletin Board, and on SMUSA website at: https://smusa.ca/documents/.

6.4 OHS bulletin boards and readily available informationThe OHS Act requires certain information to be “posted” for ready access by employees, and other information to be readily available for employee review upon request. This supports the employee’s “Right to Know” which is an important element of the Internal Responsibility System for maintaining OHS at the workplace.

An OHS Bulletin Board is maintained at the main SMUSA Offices. .

The following information is posted on the OHS Bulletin Board: The OHS Act; The SMUSA OHS Policy; The University Violence Prevention and Response Policy; The University Tobacco Free Campus Policy The 24 hour phone number for the Occupational Health and Safety Division of

the Department of Labour and Advanced Education: 1-600-952-2667;

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Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committee (JOHSC) information, including the names of the committee members, work location and phone number, when (date, time, place) and how often meetings are held;

The most recent JOHSC minutes; Any Code of Practice required pursuant to the Act or Regulations; Any order, compliance notice, notice of appeal or decision from the OHS Division

of the Department of Labour and Advanced Education; Names of qualified first aid attendants; Locations of First Aid kits, defibrillators and First Aid Room.

The following information is also readily available: OHS Program manual; MSDSs for Hazardous Materials used or stored; Records of Workplace OHS Inspections; Records of Workplace OHS monitoring or tests; Asbestos Inventory; Fire Plan and Emergency Response Plan.

6.5 Procedure for reporting workplace hazardsSMUSA is committed to eliminating hazards in the workplace or to reducing them as far as is reasonably practicable and to instituting controls which will be effective in protecting the health and safety of employees and of other persons present at the workplace. In order to be able to take action respecting hazards, SMUSA must be aware of the hazards. This awareness comes from hazard assessments and from hazards identified by employees.

SMUSA’s Occupational Health and Safety Policy states:

“It is the duty of each employee to report to their supervisor or manager, as soon as possible, any hazardous conditions, injury, accident or illness related to the workplace”. Specifically, every employee shall notify his or her manager of any safety concerns, hazardous conditions or work practices in their work area. Hazards outside of their work area should be communicated to the person in charge of that area or to someone in the University who is in a position with authority to take action regarding the hazard, such as someone in Facilities Management. This requirement to report also includes issues where an incident has not occurred (e.g., ergonomic concerns, faulty equipment). An employee may report the concern either verbally or in writing.

The manager to whom the hazard is reported is responsible for taking action to remedy the situation. If the reported hazard is outside of their area of responsibility, they will forward the report to the appropriate management representative.

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6.6 Reporting workplace injuries and occupational illnessesAll incidents and occupational illnesses must be reported by completing the University incident report, http://www.smu.ca/webfiles/InjuryForm2010.pdf, within two business days. An incident is any unplanned and unwanted event which results in damage or injury, or which could have resulted in damage or injury. This term includes property or equipment damage as well as personal injury. When thinking of injury, also include occupational illness and disease. The manager is responsible to ensure the Incident Report form is completed and forwarded to the University OHS Office, and a copy of the completed form is given to the employee and the JOHSC. The manager is also responsible to follow up on any recommendations made to prevent the incident from recurring.

6.7 Reporting Employee Safety Concerns Procedure (other than incidents and refusals to work)SMUSA has developed a procedure for employee reporting and management response to employee health and safety concerns which conforms to the three-step process required by the OHS Act. Employees shall exercise their right to identify occupational health and safety concerns without fear of reprisal or discriminatory action.

This section applies to any OHS concern or issue that is not covered by the categories listed on the incident report or the by the right to refuse. For the purposes of this program:

A “concern” is an unplanned or unusual event or everyday occurrence that affects or has the potential to affect performance, reliability, safety or the environment, but does not fully meet the criteria of an “incident.”

A Health and Safety Concern Report form has been developed to assist in documenting the concern and ensuring that the proper steps are followed in identifying and resolving the concern. A copy of this form is available at the end of this Chapter and an electronic version has been posted on the SMUSA web site.

6.7.1 Step 1 - Report to his/her manager Any employee who believes that a health or safety risk exists in the workplace must report the problem to his/her manager. Depending on the situation and location of the hazard or concern, the report may also be made directly to the person in charge of the area or work being undertaken.

The employee may report verbally or may complete the Health and Safety Concern Report Form.

The manager to whom the matter is reported is responsible to investigate the issue or to have it investigated, initiate a process to take any necessary corrective action, and notify the employee of the outcome of the investigation and any action taken or planned. A response to the employee shall be made within 10 working days. If the matter has

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not been completely resolved, the response may be an explanation of progress made, further action planned and expected completion date(s).

If the employee is satisfied that the matter has been adequately resolved, the issue is closed. The Manager must document the resolution of the concern.

6.7.2 Step 2 - Formal referral to the JOHS CommitteeWhen a hazard or concern has not been remedied to the employee’s satisfaction, the employee must forward the issue to the JOHSC. The JOHSC Co-Chairs shall determine whether the matter is urgent, and if so, initiate an immediate investigation. If not, the matter will be taken to the next meeting of the Committee for determination of a course of action to investigate and resolve the issue.

Within 10 working days, the JOHSC shall respond to the employee who reported the issue and to the manager who initially investigated. If the matter has not been completely investigated, the response may be an explanation of progress which has been made, further action planned and expected completion date(s).

Following the investigation of the matter, the JOHSC shall document their conclusions. The investigator(s) shall discuss the conclusions reached with the employee who reported the issue and the manager who initially investigated. Both will be given copies of the report.

6.7.3 Step 3 - Formal referral to the OHS Division, Department of Labour and Advanced EducationIf the issue is still not resolved or remedied to the employee's satisfaction, or if the JOHSC is unable to reach a decision, the employee shall report the matter to the Occupational Health and Safety Division of the Department of Labour and Advanced Education, PO Box 697, 5151 Terminal Road, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3J 2T6 (1-902-952-2667). An Officer will then investigate the matter, render a decision as required by the OHS Act, and confirm his/her findings in writing to the employee and SMUSA.

6.8 Unsafe work refusals under the OHS ActEvery employee has the right to refuse to do any act which he/she believes is likely to endanger his or her health or safety or the health or safety of another person, but must follow the procedure for doing so which is set out in Section 43 of the OHS Act.

SMUSA has developed a procedure for responding to employee unsafe work refusals which conforms to the three-step process required by the OHS Act.

A refusal to undertake work believed to be unsafe will always be regarded as an urgent situation, and all involved parties must give the situation their immediate attention.

As in the case of reporting a hazard or concern, employees are to exercise their right to refuse unsafe work without fear of reprisal or discriminatory action. Because of the potential seriousness of the situation, the employee should make sure he/she has done

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everything possible to eliminate or control the problem if this is possible without personal risk. The area should be secured if possible harm might occur to others.

6.8.1 Step 1 - Report to a manager The first step in exercising the right to refuse unsafe work is for the employee to report the problem to his or her immediate manager. The employee should remain in a safe place until the problem is eliminated or controlled to their satisfaction or until they are assigned another task. While the investigation and any remedial actions are being carried out, the employee may be assigned to other duties.

The manager shall investigate the refusal, make a decision, and if necessary, correct the situation or control the hazard.

The manager’s conclusions shall be communicated to the employee who exercised the unsafe work refusal. If the manager concludes that there is no hazard, or that the hazard is adequately controlled, an explanation must be given and the employee advised to return to work. If the employee is satisfied that the matter has been resolved or accepts the explanation given by the manager, then he/she should return to work and the matter is concluded.

The manager must document the resolution of the refusal to work.

Where an employee has exercised their right to refuse under section 43 of the OHS Act, no other employee shall be assigned to do that work unless the replacement employee has been advised of the refusal by the first employee, the reason for the refusal, and the replacement employee’s right to refuse under section 43.

6.8.2 Step 2 - Formal referral to the JOHS CommitteeWhen exercising his/her right to refuse unsafe work and the hazard or concern has not been remedied to the employee’s satisfaction following reporting the hazard or concern to the employee’s manager, the employee shall take the next step in the unsafe work refusal process. The JOHS Committee Co-Chairs shall initiate an immediate investigation by the Committee or a Sub-Committee established for the purpose.

The employee who has exercised the right to refuse must be given the opportunity to accompany the JOHS Committee or Sub-Committee on a physical inspection of the workplace for the purpose of ensuring that the investigators understand the reasons for the refusal.

The JOHS Committee or Sub-Committee may agree with the employee who has exercised the unsafe work refusal and in such case shall make recommendations to management as to how to correct the problem. If the JOHS Committee or Sub-Committee does not find reason to support the work refusal, it may advise the employee to return to work, but such direction must be the unanimous decision of the JOHS Committee or Sub-Committee.

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6.8.3 Step 3 - Formal referral to the OHS Division, Department of Labour and Advanced EducationIf the JOHS Committee or Sub-Committee cannot agree unanimously that the employee should return to work, or if the problem is not resolved to the employee’s satisfaction, the exercising of the right to refuse will continue.

The JOHS Committee or Sub-Committee or the employee who is not satisfied with the outcome of his/her work refusal, shall contact the Occupational Health and Safety Division of the Department of Labour and Advanced Education (1-600-952-2667). An OHS Officer will take the case on a priority basis and will investigate as soon as possible. If the Officer finds that the task refused is unsafe, he/she will ensure that no one performs the task until appropriate action is taken to remedy the situation. If the Officer cannot find indications that the task is unsafe, or finds that the hazard has been adequately controlled, he/she will advise the employee to return to work. These findings will be confirmed in writing to the employee and SMUSA.

6.9 Consultation with SMU Occupational Health and Safety Staff In addition to the JOHSC, employees or managers, at any stage in the above processes, may consult with the university OHS Office. The University HR Officer (OHS & wellness), will act in an advisory capacity, providing advice on the requirements of the OHS Act and regulations and any applicable standards, hazard control measures, and the proper procedure to follow in resolving the matter.

6.10 Employee SuggestionsAny employee who has a suggestion about improving occupational health and safety at SMU or about improving the OHS Program should discuss the suggestion with their manager or with a member of the JOHS Committee, or OHS staff as appropriate. Employees are encouraged to write their suggestions down so that they can be more easily considered and forwarded to the appropriate person.

A JOHS Committee member who receives a suggestion should request that the JOHS Committee consider it at their next meeting. The result of that discussion shall be recorded in the minutes of that meeting.

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Chapter 7: Safety Committees7.1 Introduction...........................................................................................................437.2 Composition of JOHS Committee and Safety Sub-committees............................437.3 Functions of JOHS Committee.............................................................................437.4 Roles of JOHS Committee....................................................................................44

7.4.2 Workplace Inspections....................................................................................44

7.4.3 Incident review................................................................................................45

7.4.4 Investigations..................................................................................................45

7.4.5 OHS Concerns...............................................................................................45

7.4.6 Unsafe Work Refusals....................................................................................45

7.4.7 Regulatory Role of the JOHS Committee.......................................................46

7.5 JOHSC Terms of Reference.................................................................................467.6 Training.................................................................................................................467.7 Written recommendations to management...........................................................477.8 Departmental notifications....................................................................................477.10 Participation in OHS Program evaluation...........................................................487.11 Records..............................................................................................................49Recommendation.......................................................................................................50Response by Management.........................................................................................50

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Chapter 7:Safety Committees

7.1 IntroductionThe Occupational Health and Safety Act (the OHS Act) gives employees the “Right to Participate”. One mechanism for participation is through the Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committee (JOHS Committee).

7.2 Composition of JOHS Committee and Safety Sub-committeesThe OHS Act mandates that a JOHS Committee shall consist of a number of persons as agreed to by the employer and the employees. The SMUSA JOHSC, in its Terms of Reference, has determined the composition of the JOHSC, as follows:“At SMUSA, the Committee will be composed of a minimum of (3) appointed voting members representing SMUSA management and at least an equal number of voting members appointed by non-management employee group.

7.3 Functions of JOHS CommitteeThe OHS Act identifies the function as being, to involve employers and employees together in occupational health and safety in the workplace. This is the main vehicle for joint labour-management consultation on the identification and resolution of health and safety problems in the workplace.Recognizing that the employer has the greatest amount of responsibility for health and safety at SMUSA, the function of the JOHSC is to involve representatives of employees and the employer in the identification and resolution of health and safety issues in the workplace and in the production of healthy and safe work practice, including:

• The co-operative identification of hazards to health and safety, and effective systems to respond to the hazards;

• The cooperative auditing of compliance with health and safety requirements in the workplace;

• Receipt, investigation and prompt disposition of matters and complaints with respect to workplace health and safety;

• Participation in inspections, inquiries and investigations concerning health and safety; in particular, participation in an inspection referred to in Section 50 of the NS OHS Act;

• Investigating and reporting on refusals to perform work under the procedures defined in the Act under Section 43 – Right to Refuse Work

• Advising on individual protective devices, equipment and clothing that, complying with the OHS Act and the regulations, are best adapted to the needs of the employees;

• Advising the employer regarding the OHS program, including the requirements under OHS Act and its regulations and making recommendations to the employer, the employees and any person for the improvement of the health and safety of persons at the workplace;

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• Maintaining records and minutes of Committee Meetings in a form and manner approved by the Department of Labour and Advanced Education and providing an OHS officer with a copy of these records or minutes upon request;

• Establish sub-committees as required;• Advising on training requirements for all employees and Joint Occupational

Health & Safety Committee Members;• Any other related occupational health and safety function assigned by agreement

between SMUSA and the employees or the union(s).Sections 30 and 31 of the OHS Act identify the composition, procedures and functions of the committee.Safety Committee members are encouraged to review the Department of Labour and Advanced Education’s publication: Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committees-A Practical Guide for Single Employer Workplaces, http://www.gov.ns.ca/lwd/healthandsafety/docs/JOHCommitteeSingEmployer.pdf for further information.

7.4 Roles of JOHS CommitteeJOHS Committees provide an opportunity for employees to participate in the development and maintenance of the Occupational Health and Safety Program in keeping with the requirements of the OHS Act and SMUSA’s OHS Policy. The primary role of the JOHS Committee is to provide advice and recommendations on health and safety issues within the workplace. Additional roles include cooperative identification of hazards, evaluation of the effectiveness of the systems to respond to these hazards, and auditing of compliance with legislative standards. Following is a brief summary of JOHSC roles. 7.4.1 Hazard assessments

The OHS Program has adopted a formal Hazard Identification, Risk Assessment and Risk Control process (see Chapter 3 of this Manual). JOHSC members may participate in hazard assessments by participating in the working group performing the hazard assessment or may participate by reviewing the completed hazard assessment. Where the JOHS Committee becomes aware of a hazard it shall address the hazard at the next regular meeting of the committee unless an emergency or special meeting is called to address the hazard. The JOHS Committee shall address, by recommendation to management, the elimination of the hazard or, where that is not possible, the minimization of the hazard. Such elimination or minimization shall consider all means, including engineering controls, development of safe work practices, training and supervision, administrative controls, and use of personal protective equipment to address the hazard.

7.4.2 Workplace InspectionsThe JOHSC may participate in inspections by participating in the actual inspection or by reviewing the inspection report. Section 50 of the OHS Act requires that an employee representative of the JOHSC be allowed to accompany an OHS Officer of the OHS Division of the

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Department of Labour and Advanced Education as the officer undertakes an inspection of the workplace. When an employee committee member is not available, the officer may select one or more employees who shall accompany the officer during the officer's inspection. An employer representative may also accompany the officer.

Any representative of the JOHS Committee who participates in an inspection pursuant to Section 50 of the OHS Act shall report on that inspection at the next meeting of the JOHS Committee.

7.4.3 Incident reviewReports of all incidents shall be forwarded to the JOHSC for review at its next meeting. Where determined to be desirable by the JOHSC, it may carry out additional investigations of any incident. A report or any such additional investigation shall be completed and filed. The review of all incidents shall be a standing item on the agenda of every safety committee meeting. The minutes must reflect the summary of any corrective action recommended by the committee, including further investigation of the incident.

7.4.4 InvestigationsSafety committees may recommend or undertake an investigation of any matter that may affect the health and safety of any person at the workplace. Where there has been an incident, including a near miss, at the workplace, that requires investigation, the incident shall be investigated using procedures described in Chapter 11 of this Manual. Normally, for a less serious incident, the investigation shall be undertaken by management with the participation of a member of the JOHS Committee. For a more serious incident, an investigation team, including members of the JOHS Committee may be established.

The JOHS Committee may wish for representatives of the committee to be more involved with the actual conduct of some investigations. If the JOHS Committee wishes additional involvement in an investigation, arrangements should be made with management, who shall facilitate their participation.

A report shall be completed and filed for each investigation.

7.4.5 OHS ConcernsWhere the JOHS Committee receives an employee concern with regard to a health or safety matter, the Committee shall address the concern according to the procedure laid out in Chapter 6 of this Manual. At its next meeting, the JOHS Committee should review the reports of all employee health and safety concerns referred to it for investigation.

7.4.6 Unsafe Work RefusalsWhen an employee has exercised his/her right to refuse work which they believe to be unsafe to themselves or another person and the concern has not been remedied to the employee’s satisfaction, the employee is instructed to refer the

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matter to the next level of the unsafe work refusal process which is a formal referral to the JOHS Committee (see Chapter 6.8.2 of this Manual).

The JOHS Committee, or a sub-committee of the JOHS Committee, shall investigate the work refusal as soon as possible. The JOHS Committee has the right to view the workplace and observe any work in progress; interview the employee making the work refusal and any other employees involved in the work, suppliers or others relevant to the work refusal; examine documents; and make such additional enquiries as it sees fit prior to making a recommendation with regard to the work refusal.

The committee shall address the concern according to the procedure laid out in Chapter 6 of this Manual, including documentation of its involvement. Note that in order to recommend that the employee return to work, the recommendation of the JOHS Committee must be unanimous.

At its next meeting, the JOHS Committee should review the reports of all unsafe work refusals referred to it for investigation.

7.4.7 Regulatory Role of the JOHS CommitteeVarious regulations specify the regulatory role of the JOHS Committee. The WHMIS Regulations require the JOHS Committee to be consulted regarding the development and annual review of the employee education program. The First Aid Regulations require the employer to consult the JOHS Committee in the development of first aid remote location plans. The Occupational Safety General Regulations require the employer to consult the committee when developing or reviewing any written policy or procedure required by the regulation. From time to time, it may be necessary for the JOHS Committee to review Regulations that are under review, or in the process of being drafted by NS Department of Labour and Advanced Education.

7.5 JOHSC Terms of ReferenceSection 30 (7) of the OHS Act establishes that each JOHS Committee shall establish its own Terms of Reference (TOR). This provides the framework within which the committee functions. The SMUSA JOHSC has developed a TOR. The document can be found at our main desk.

7.6 TrainingAll members of the JOHS Committee shall be provided with basic training on the fundamentals of occupational health and safety and the duties of being a safety committee member. This training shall include:

OHS Committee Effectiveness, including Internal Responsibility System, OHS Rights and Responsibilities, and Due Diligence;

Investigation of Employee Concerns or Unsafe Work Refusals.

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Additionally, those members of the JOHS Committee dealing with the following matters shall be provided with training:

Hazard Identification/Assessment; Workplace Inspections; Incident Investigation.

Members of ad-hoc safety sub-committees will be provided training as required.

7.7 Written recommendations to managementSection 34 of the OHS Act requires that an employer shall respond in writing within 21 days to written recommendations from the JOHS Committee. The formal recommendation(s) should be reserved for the more serious issues. Routine matters should be dealt with by recording them in the minutes for action by management.

To use Section 34 of the Act, the recommendation(s) must be in writing and must ask for a written response. Simply recording in the committee minutes that a matter has been discussed does not meet this requirement. Communication regarding recommendations must be phrased as a recommendation. In order for Section 34 to take effect and the 21 day response period to be activated, the committee must consider the matter, come to a consensus as to what it wishes to recommend, and communicate the recommendation(s) to management.

At the end of this Chapter of the Manual is a Recommendation Form, which should be used to communicate the recommendation(s) of the Committee. The JOHSC will forward recommendations to the university JOHSC Committee. Additionally, recommendations may also be addressed to the management person who is responsible for the work, location, or issue about which the recommendation(s) refer.

Management must take action to ensure that the recommendation(s) are dealt with and that a formal response is provided in a timely manner. A response to the recommendation(s) should be made as soon as possible; accepting recommendation(s) or giving reasons for not accepting them. If the matter requires more investigation or time to reach a decision or develop a plan of action, an interim response must be made to the JOHS Committee advising them of the status, the reason for the delay, and the time when they might expect the full response. The matter must be followed up and the JOHS Committee must be advised of the outcome.

7.8 Departmental notificationsSection 28(2)(e)(iv) of the OHS Act requires that the Occupational Health and Safety Program identify the circumstances where hazards must be reported by the employer to the JOHS Committee and the procedure for doing so.

Pursuant to this requirement, SMUSA shall notify the JOHS Committee within 24 hours of the occurrence of:

an accident at the workplace where a person is killed or injured in a manner likely to prove fatal;

a fire or explosion at the workplace whether a person is injured or not; and

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a Stop Work Order being issued by an Occupational Health and Safety Officer of the Occupational Health and Safety Division of the Department of Labour and Advanced Education (DLAE).

SMUSA shall notify the JOHS Committee within seven days of the occurrence of: an accident at the workplace where a person sustains a bodily injury which

requires medical treatment or which results in lost time of greater than one day, not counting the day of the injury; and

an order of an Occupational Health and Safety Officer of the Occupational Health and Safety Division of DLAE.

The notification may initially be verbal, in order to save time, but must be confirmed in writing as soon as reasonably practicable. The written notification may take the form of the notice to the Director, Occupational Health and Safety Division of DLAE, or a copy of the order of the Occupational Health and Safety Officer.

Additionally, as required by Section 35 of the Act, the Department shall notify the JOHS Committee of the existence of reports of workplace occupational health or safety inspections or of workplace occupational health or safety monitoring or tests.

Further, pursuant to Section 37 of the Act, the Department shall notify the JOHS Committee of a compliance notice provided by SMUSA in response to the order of an Occupational Health and Safety Officer or an appeal of the order or decision of the Officer.

7.9 Written request for informationSection 35 of the Act requires an employer to notify the JOHS Committee of any occupational health and safety reports, inspections, workplace monitoring or tests. Upon request, the employer must make these reports available to the JOHS Committee. If the JOHS Committee wishes to request any of these reports, the Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committee Request for Information Form should be used to ensure a response in a timely manner. This form may be found at the end of this Chapter of the Manual.

Section 35 of the OHS Act requires that an employer shall respond in writing within 21 days to a written Request for Information from the JOHS Committee.

Please note that this section of the OHS Act applies only to the reports listed above. If the JOHS Committee wishes other information, a request can be made to the party with the information.

7.10 Participation in OHS Program evaluationThe JOHS Committee shall review and advise SMUSA regarding:

The OHS Policy; the OHS Program; employee awareness and training in OHS issues; and the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) training.

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7.11 RecordsThe JOHS Committee shall keep a full record of its activities, including preparation and maintenance of the following records:

JOHS Committee members; Committee Co-Chairs and the Secretary; schedule of regular meetings; notices of emergency and special meetings; meeting agendas and minutes; reports of hazard identification and assessment activities reports of inspections; reports of concerns investigated reports of unsafe work refusals investigated; reports of incidents investigated; written recommendations; written requests for information; response to the written recommendations and requests for information; and any correspondence which is received or sent.

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Recommendation

Pursuant to Section 34 of the OHS Act, a written response to this Recommendation is requested within 21 days.

Recommendation Number: Date Submitted:Re:

Recommendation:

Reason(s) for Recommendation:

Signed: Employee Co-Chair Date:Signed: Employer Co-Chair Date:

Response by Management

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Response attached: YES___ NO___If NO, state reason:

Response by Management

Response prepared by

Signature

Date

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Chapter 8: Procurement and Contracting8.1 Introduction...........................................................................................................538.2 Purchase of products, supplies, equipment, etc...................................................538.3 Insurance Certificates and WCB Coverage...........................................................538.4 Purchase of Contracted Services...........................................................................53

8.4.1 Responsibilities..............................................................................................548.4.1.1 SMUSA Employees Contracting with a Contractor.............................................54

8.4.1.2 Contractors..........................................................................................................54

8.4.1.3 University OHS Office.........................................................................................55

8.4.2 Construction and Maintenance Affecting University Community...................558.4.3 Contracted Work Undertaken on Verbal Contract or Purchase Order...........558.4.4 Exception to Procedure.................................................................................56

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8.1 IntroductionSaint Mary’s University Student Association (SMUSA) has established a process to ensure that purchased goods conform to OHS requirements, and a process on the OHS requirements of contracted work. The process to ensure that purchased goods conform to OHS requirements include the assessment of hazards associated with these goods, and elimination or reduction of the risks associated with these hazards, where possible. The purpose of the process for OHS requirements of contracted work is to ensure that construction and maintenance work undertaken by Contractors on University sites will be undertaken in a healthy and safe manner in consideration of all hazards present at the site or associated with the work to be performed and in compliance with the Nova Scotia OHS Act and regulations and the requirements of the SMUSA OHS Program.

8.2 Purchase of products, supplies, equipment, etc. All purchases shall have a health and safety evaluation to determine whether or not there are hazards associated with the goods which could pose a risk to employees or to other persons at the workplace. Those contemplating purchases should consider any Safe Work Practice(s) relevant to the use of the equipment. Advice can be provided by the OHS Office or the JOHS Committee.

Where the OHS Act and regulations have adopted standards for the manufacture, installation, use, and maintenance of tools or equipment, the tools or equipment purchased must be bought to the current standard cited in the regulations.

Selection of office furnishings shall include consideration of ergonomics to ensure appropriate fit and function for the staff that must use them.

All products containing chemicals which are purchased shall meet all the requirements of the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS 2015) respecting labelling and provision of a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) as a condition of sale.

8.3 Insurance Certificates and WCB CoverageSMUSA is responsible to obtain and maintain the vendor’s current Insurance Certificate, WCB Letter of Good Standing and Safety Certification, when applicable and prior to any work being done on site that they have arranged and/or purchased. e.g.: installation and/or maintenance of equipment, training on new equipment, etc.

The University Procure to Pay Services is responsible to obtain a current Insurance Certificate, WCB Letter of Good Standing and Safety Certification from the vendor for RFP’s created and issued by Procure to Pay Services, when applicable, and will provide the documents to the end user. The end user is responsible to maintain the documents while the work is being done on site.

8.4 Purchase of Contracted ServicesThis program is intended to apply to construction and maintenance work, where there may be some hazard to the employees undertaking the work or to other persons in the area where the work is being carried out. For all construction and renovation contracts over the value of $5,000.00, the contractor must have a Certificate of Recognition issued jointly by the WCB and an occupational health and safety organization approved by the WCB.

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This procedure does not apply to:

“Supply only” or “supply and deliver” contracts where work is not undertaken at a University site or project; or low hazard work by contract consultants, such as lawyers, accountants, consultants, and administrative staff unless they are required to work in the area where the construction or maintenance work is being undertaken.

SMUSA may contract with contractors for projects under $10,000.00. SMUSA will also manage those projects. Projects valued over $10,000.00 will be contracted for and managed by Facilities Management.

8.4.1 Responsibilities 8.4.1.1 SMUSA Employees Contracting with a Contractor

Advise the Contractor of any known hazards, e.g. presence of asbestos; Provide the Contractor with a copy of the University Contractor booklet; Review and monitor Contractor project safety plan; Take action on issues of non-compliance with the project safety plan; Review Contractor inspection reports and take the appropriate action for any un-

resolved safety concerns noted on the inspection report; Obtain Contractor compliance documentation as noted in section 10.3; Inform the OHS Office of the corrective action(s) taken in regards to issues of

non-compliance.

8.4.1.2 Contractors

Be competent, as defined in Nova Scotia health and safety legislation, in all phases of the contracted work to be done;

Where duties being completed as part of the project require “designated competent” persons to undertake those duties, ensure that those who will be assigned to these duties have been designated in writing by their employer, including sub-contractors, as being “competent”;

Ensure the project workers are adequately trained in safe work procedures prior to commencing the contracted work;

Exercise proper site health and safety management; Maintain acceptable housekeeping and material organization on the site; Communicate and cooperate with the SMUSA Project Facilitator; Ensure that the contracted work is planned and carried out in a manner that does

not expose other employees, students or the public to any undue risk; Report any incidents within 12 hours of occurrence to SMUSA, Facilities

Management and the OHS Office; Submit and maintain a Clearance Certificate from the WCB which indicates that

their account is in good standing. Submit a Certificate of Recognition issued jointly by the Workers’ Compensation

Board of Nova Scotia (WCB) and an occupational health and safety organization approved by the WCB; or be in the process of qualifying for the Certificate of Recognition from an occupational health and safety organization approved by the WCB

Submit a Letter of Good Standing to the Project Facilitator from the sponsoring health and safety organization;

Submit a written Project Safety Management plan to the SMUSA Project Facilitator that:

Describes how health and safety will be managed throughout the project;

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Identifies and provides contact information for the person who will be on site at all times when work is being performed to coordinate work activities and ensure health and safety on the site;

When having a designated person on site at all times, when contracted work is being performed, is not feasible, identifies and provides contact information for the person that both contractor employees and the University may contact regarding health and safety concerns, as required;

Includes a hazard identification and assessment of the project and work requirements prior to the start of work;

Includes a plan to communicate the results of the assessment to all project workers and post at the work site for reference;

Includes an emergency response plan. When requested, submit a copy of the documentation respecting the contractor’s

occupational health and safety program; Not begin any work until proper authorization has been obtained from the Project

Facilitator and all work permits have been obtained; Follow University policies as outlined in the General Requirements, i.e. Digging

underground and hot work.

8.4.1.3 University OHS Office

Participate in start-up meetings, whenever possible; Assist SMUSA in the resolution of safety issues, related to contracted work.

8.4.2 Construction and Maintenance Affecting University Community

The University recognizes that there may be occasions when it is necessary to undertake renovations to existing facilities where University employees, students and the public are present. In these circumstances, precautions may be required to ensure the safety of all persons present. Good planning is required to ensure that any employees who are sensitive to construction dust or materials or to the chemical products used (solvents, paints, coatings, adhesives, asbestos, etc.) are adequately protected. This may require using different materials, isolating the area being renovated or modifying the renovation schedule to undertake some procedures after hours or on weekends. Finally, it may require providing an alternate work space for sensitive employees and providing warning signage for the public. Facilities Management will communicate any known hazards to the Saint Mary’s Community.

8.4.3 Contracted Work Undertaken on Verbal Contract or Purchase Order

Every Contractor contracted must be in Good Standing with the Workers’ Compensation Board of Nova Scotia. Where possible and practical, preference in awarding the contract shall be given to parties who have either:

a Certificate of Recognition issued jointly by the WCB and an occupational health and safety organization approved by the WCB; or

be in the process of qualifying for the Certificate of Recognition from an occupational health and safety organization approved by the WCB.

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if requested to do so by the SMUSA representative who contracts for the work to be done, the Contractor must have the sponsoring occupational health and safety organization submit a Letter of Good Standing to the University.

8.4.4 Exception to ProcedureWhere it appears not to be possible or is not practical, SMUSA may consider contracting with a contractor who does not have a Certificate of Recognition or a Letter of Good Standing providing that the following requirements are met:

A Hazard Assessment of the contracted work is completed, by the contractor, and a work plan developed that includes consideration of:o whether the contracted work will present a hazard to the health or safety of

any members of the Saint Mary’s Communityo whether the work of SMUSA/University employees will present a hazard to

the health or safety of the Contractor;o whether the location of the contracted work will present any hazard to the

health or safety of the employees of the Contractor that is not usual for those employees or for which they have not been adequately trained; and

o whether the contracted work will present a hazard to the health or safety of any member of the public.

Where the Hazard Assessment identifies a hazard to the members of the Saint Mary’s Community or to the employees of the Contractor or to the public, the SMUSA representative responsible for the contracted work to be done shall:

request documentation from the Contractor to ensure that they have appropriate training and are competent to perform the contracted work required;

ensure that SMUSA supervision is available to the Contractor during the time that the contracted work is being undertaken, to assist in the resolution of any safety concerns that may occur.

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Chapter 9: Documentation9.1 Introduction...........................................................................................................589.2 Creating and Maintaining OHS Program Documents and Records......................589.3 Control of OHS Program Manual and Related Documents..................................589.4 OHS Policy Records.............................................................................................589.5 SMUSA OHS Records..........................................................................................589.6 Records of OHS Program Activities......................................................................599.7 Records Access, Storage, Retention and Disposal..............................................59

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Chapter 9: Documentation

9.1 IntroductionComplete, accurate and accessible records provide the means by which to monitor the effectiveness of SMUSA’s OHS program and they provide the best evidence of due diligence. SMUSA has established processes which require the creation of OHS documents and records. These processes include the approval, review and updating of documents and the control of records for the OHS Program.

9.2 Creating and Maintaining OHS Program Documents and RecordsThis chapter of the OHS Program manual summarizes many of the OHS documentation requirements, but it is important to note that this manual itself is one of the most important OHS Program documents. The chapters of this manual describe processes, duties, and responsibilities for the creation and implementation of the OHS Program. Most of the chapters of this manual have a requirement for documentation of some aspect of the OHS Program and the keeping of related records. The creation and updating of that documentation and related record keeping should be observed when undertaking the processes described by each chapter of this manual. Copies of the OHS Program Manual and other useful forms and documents are made available on the SMUSA website at: https://smusa.ca/documents/.

9.3 Control of OHS Program Manual and Related DocumentsThe General Manager, SMUSA, is responsible to oversee the development of all documents created for the OHS Program manual. Each document shall be developed initially in draft form and shall be provided to the safety committee for review and comment, and revised as required following the review.

9.4 OHS Policy RecordsAt SMUSA, an OHS Policy has been established which applies to all SMUSA employees. The General Manager, SMUSA, is responsible for maintaining this policy, coordinating yearly reviews and updates, and keeping records related to the review.

9.5 SMUSA OHS RecordsThe General Manager, SMUSA, shall maintain formal OHS records for SMUSA as a whole. Each department or faculty is responsible to ensure that they maintain records as required in other chapters of this manual, e.g. WHMIS inventories, for their area.

The General Manager, SMUSA, shall maintain the following records: A formal copy of the OHS Program Manual and all related forms; JOHSC meeting agendas, meeting minutes, written communications,

recommendations, reports of projects or initiatives, statistical reports and any other records pertaining to the business of the Committee, including its conduct or review of workplace inspections and incident investigations. These records shall be made readily accessible to the committee members;

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formal workplace hazard identification, assessment and control activities and inventories;

Safe Work Practices development and maintenance; information pertaining to First Aid Attendants; Workplace Violence Prevention Plans; reports of environmental testing and monitoring, when completed for health and

safety purposes; reports of employee concerns or complaints; reports of workplace incidents and investigations; records of Department of Labour and Advanced Education OHS Division

visits/inspections/orders/investigations/compliance notices; reports of OHS Program monitoring activities and statistical reports respecting

OHS performance; reports of evaluations or audits of the OHS Program; Related documents, files and records.

9.6 Records of OHS Program Activities Individual sections, e.g. Gorsebrook Lounge, are responsible to maintain working files and records of all the OHS Program activities as related to their work areas:

workplace inspections, recommendations and any corrective action; workplace incidents and investigations and any corrective action; employee concerns/complaints and management responses and the resolution

of each; development, review and revision of safe work practices and policies; hazard identification documentation and response to identified hazards; employee OHS training; and Safety non-compliance/corrective action/discipline activities.

9.7 Records Access, Storage, Retention and DisposalSMUSA OHS Program records will be accessed, maintained, stored, retained and disposed of as per established standards and practices. Employee Health Records (and employee exposure data), because of their legislated and privacy requirements, are stringently managed as per Human Resources standards for Employee Health Records.First Aid forms must be kept for 5 years as per the First Aid Regulations.Records will be retained and disposed of in accordance with SMUSA records management practices.

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Chapter 10: Inspections10.1 Introduction.........................................................................................................6110.2 SMUSA Inspection Process................................................................................6110.3 Types of Inspections...........................................................................................6110.4 Composition of Inspection Team........................................................................6210.5 Frequency of Inspections...................................................................................6210.6 Preparing for the Inspection................................................................................62

10.6.1 Guidelines for Conducting an Inspection......................................................62

10.6.2 Review of Inspection Reports.......................................................................63

10.7 Documentation...................................................................................................6310.8 Other Inspections...............................................................................................6310.9 Additional Evaluations for Special Circumstances..............................................64

Inspection Checklist for Office Workplaces....................................................................65

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Chapter 10: Inspections

10.1 IntroductionAn important element of every OHS Program is the regular inspection of work spaces. Workplace inspections help prevent injuries and illness. Managers are responsible to ensure that inspections occur as required.

Inspections are observational tours of the workplace for the purpose of determining the level of compliance with established standards for hazard controls, safe work practices, job procedures and safety rules. Workplace Safety Inspections should be seen as a proactive technique for:

monitoring the workplace; identifying unsafe acts and/or conditions (including the effects of change which may

produce a hazard which had not been previously identified); and Confirming that existing controls are working.

Inspections shall be undertaken based on the nature and extent of the identified hazards and risks.

10.2 SMUSA Inspection ProcessTo assist Managers, and JOHSC, an inspection checklist has been developed. This checklist can be modified as required. The checklist can be found at the end of this chapter of the OHS Program. The Office Inspection Checklist will be completed annually Facilities Management is responsible for inspecting areas such as common hallways, elevators, stairwells, lobbies, exterior entrances, emergency exits, sidewalks, and parking areas on a periodic basis.

The Inspection Checklist should clearly describe each hazard or deficiency and note the corrective action which needs to be taken. When the checklist has been completed and signed, the original checklist is to be forwarded to the Manager, Maintenance and Operations, Facilities Management. The Manager, Maintenance and Operations, will review the reports, and create a work order for any safety issues that are related to physical deficiencies. The Manager responsible for the area being inspected is responsible to ensure other deficiencies are corrected.

10.3 Types of InspectionsInspections may be formal or informal in nature, and will be conducted at regular intervals or as required, depending on particular workplace conditions determined by hazard assessments.

Inspections may be as informal as walking around the workplace at the start of a shift to see that all health and safety hazards are properly controlled before work begins. This allows potential problems to be identified and corrected between formal planned inspections. Informal inspections should be done on a daily or weekly basis.

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Formal inspections are planned inspections carried out on a periodic basis, documenting the inspection and findings, and assigning responsibility for correction of any deficiencies noted in the inspection.

10.4 Composition of Inspection TeamIdeally, inspections are done by a team which includes a management representative and an employee from the area being inspected, and a safety committee member, where possible. Additionally, it can often be advantageous to include a person who is not from the area being inspected. This person can bring a fresh perspective and a new set of eyes which may identify hazards or potential hazards which were not noticed by those familiar with the area.

10.5 Frequency of InspectionsThe minimum number of inspections required by the OHS Act and SMUSA for offices is one per year. Inspections may be planned by managers, or by the JOHSC. From a safety perspective, the frequency of inspections depends on several factors:

• How many and how serious the hazards which have been identified by the hazard assessment process are. More hazardous workplaces require more frequent inspections;

• Past incident and injury records, as evidence of hazards which are not totally controlled. Workplaces with more incidents or injuries should be inspected more frequently;

• Significance of corrective actions required by the previous inspection. If there were a number of deficiencies and required actions identified, or if some of them were of a more serious nature, then the next inspection may be scheduled to check on completion and validate compliance;

• New equipment or work procedure which may have hazards with which employees are not familiar.

In high hazard workplaces, e.g. working with hazardous equipment or chemicals, or during construction or maintenance, it may be necessary to do a partial or specialized inspection or general inspections on a more frequent basis. In less risky workplaces, such as office environments, inspections may be less frequent.

10.6 Preparing for the InspectionIt is important that those who will be conducting safety inspections are familiar with the results of any Hazard Identification process. Where applicable, Safe Work Practices and/or Standard Operating Procedures should be reviewed, prior to the inspection, as part of the preparation for the inspection, as they will include detailed information about the controls which should be in place.

10.6.1 Guidelines for Conducting an Inspection Review previous inspection reports; follow up to ensure any deficiencies noted in previous inspection reports

have been corrected;

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Look at the entrances and exits, the floor, the ceiling, each wall, the furnishings, the equipment, the stored materials, etc. of the area being inspected. look over, under, around, inside, etc.;

inspect specialty areas such as photocopy rooms, file rooms, storage rooms, boardrooms, etc.;

observe activities of employees; check for chemical, physical, biological, ergonomic and psycho-social

hazards; examine all aspects of the work activity including the product, process,

place and people; look for deviations from accepted standards or work practices; identify to the person in charge the need for immediate corrective action

where there is imminent danger; record all unsafe acts and conditions; identify deficiencies or violations,

rather than individual employees; assign responsibility for corrective action and a date for follow-up; distribute and file copies of the inspection report as required.

10.6.2 Review of Inspection ReportsInformation obtained from regular inspections should be reviewed carefully, with incident reports, to identify trends and help monitor the effectiveness of the program. Over time, this review will help:

identify why incidents are occurring in certain areas; establish priorities for corrective action; identify effectiveness of, or the need to improve, safe work practices and

procedures; identify areas, equipment, etc., that may require more in-depth hazard

analysis; Identify the need for training in specific areas.

10.7 Documentation Inspection records, (hard copies or electronic) including checklists, forms, photos, actions required, recommendations, and prompts for follow up, etc., must be maintained. Some records must be maintained for specific time periods as per specific legislative requirements. For example, the First Aid General Regulations require that records of first aid must be maintained for five years.

10.8 Other InspectionsFire extinguishers are inspected annually by an external company and weekly by University’s Security personnel. The OHS Bulletin Board is inspected monthly by the General Manager, SMUSA. First aid kits are inspected and maintained by designated first aid providers. Employees are to inspect Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) daily before using. Pre-trip inspections, commonly called circle-checks, of vehicles must occur before using the vehicle.

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10.9 Additional Evaluations for Special CircumstancesThe Inspection Checklists(s) covers the most frequently occurring hazards, and can be customized. However, during the inspection, the inspector may notice something that requires a further, more specialized evaluation or which is beyond the inspector’s expertise. Such things include a more detailed evaluation of electrical systems, fire prevention, building code requirements, office ergonomics or indoor air quality, ventilation studies, thermal environment evaluations, testing for presence of mold, etc. In such cases, additional expertise should be sought or the matter referred for follow-up.

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Inspection Checklist for Office WorkplacesBuilding: Department/Faculty: Date:

Street Address:

Inspector: Work Phone:

Item Specific Location

RatingAction Required/Comment

Corrected Date Corrected or Reason Not CorrectedS U N/A Yes No

Work Spaces Covered During Inspection (Include Room #)

1. All Offices, Storage Rooms, and Conference Roomsa. The area is secure (doors

can be locked, access is controlled)

b. The area appears to be well lighted

c. The area is adequately ventilated

d. The area has adequate temperature control

e. Flooring is secure, with no loose tiles, worn or curled carpet or surfaces which are slippery when wet

f. The area is free from tripping hazards such as loose debris, stored material or phone cords

g. All computers and peripherals are powered via a wall outlet or power bar

h. Electrical service is not overloaded by use of multiple three way plugs and daisy-chained power bars

i. Electrical extension cords are grounded (three wire type) and in good condition with no spices, broken insulation or exposed wires

j. There are no unauthorized space heaters in use

k. Aisles are of adequate width and are unobstructed

l. There are no missing, loose or damaged ceiling tiles or electrical fixtures.

Item Specific Location

RatingAction Required/Comment

Corrected Date Corrected or Reason Not CorrectedS U N/A Yes No

m.There is no evidence of water leaks (stained ceiling tiles, damp carpet)

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n. There is no evidence of mould (stains, odour or obvious growth)

o. Chairs with casters have a stable “5-star” base

p. Chairs are not broken or unduly worn

q. Chairs are ergonomically designed, including a height adjustment for those intended to be used at tables

2. Shelving, File Cabinets, Service Areas, and Other Storagea. There is no accumulation of

un-stored materialb. Nothing is stored within 18

inches of a fire suppression sprinkler head or the ceiling

c. Wall and ceiling fixtures are fastened securely

d. Filing cabinets and shelves are sturdy and stable (secured if necessary)

e. For areas where filing or storage is more than five feet from the floor, a stool or moveable steps is provided

f. Filing cabinets have safety interlocks to ensure that only one drawer may be opened at a time

g. Filing cabinets are loaded with heavy items at the bottom and only light items in the top drawer

h. Items stored on shelves are properly stacked and weight is distributed evenly (no shelves overloaded)

i. Desk and file drawers are kept closed when not in use

j. Filing cabinets are not more than five drawers in height

k. There is no hazard from falling objects which have been stacked on top of cabinets or other furnishings

Item Specific Location

RatingAction Required/Comment

Corrected Date Corrected or Reason Not CorrectedS U N/A Yes No

3. Miscellaneousa. Portable ladders are certified

to CSA Standard Grade 1 or 2 and are in good repair

b. There are no obvious defects or damage to movable steps, or stools

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c. Hazardous materials (Controlled Products under the WHMIS system, if any) are properly stored

d. Controlled Products are properly labelled with supplier or workplace labels

e. Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs) are available for all Controlled products (must be no more than three years old)

f. Equipment, such as paper shredders or paper cutters, is equipped with properly functioning guards to prevent injury to users

g. The area is kept clean and sanitary

h. The University Emergency Quick Reference Guide is readily available

4. Building Exterior and Parking Area (if applicable)The exterior of the building, entrance steps, ramps, handrails, sidewalks and parking area are the responsibility of Facilities Management to maintain and to inspect. If the University inspector notes potential problems with these areas (or staff comment on these areas during the inspection) including damaged or slippery surfaces, accumulation of ice or snow, inadequate overhead protection from falling ice or snow, inadequate lighting, the matter should be referred to the Manager, Maintenance and Operations, Facilities Management.Comments:

5. Building Entrances, Lobby, Stairs, Elevators and, Emergency ExitsBuilding entrances, lobby, stairs, elevators and emergency exits are the responsibility of Facilities Management to maintain and to inspect. If the University inspector notes potential problems with these areas (or staff comment on these areas during the inspection) including exterior doors not operating properly, floors are slippery, stairs are not in good repair or are missing handrails, inadequate lighting in entrance, lobby, stairs or elevators or there is a question regarding the adequacy of emergency lighting, marking of emergency exits, or obstruction of emergency exits, the matter should be referred to the Manager, Maintenance and Operations , Facilities Management.Comments:

6. Fire Prevention and ResponseFire prevention and response activities are the responsibility of Facilities Management to maintain and to inspect. If the University inspector notes potential problems with these areas (or staff comment on these areas during the inspection) including the identification of or other issues relating to fire exit routes, illumination of exit signs, sprinkler systems, fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, the sprinkler system, issues relating to fire wardens, the matter should be referred to the Manager, Maintenance and Operations, Facilities Management.Comments:

7. First Aid and Medical Response

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First aid and medical response activities, including inspecting and replenishing first aid kits, are being managed by several groups throughout the University. If the University inspector notes potential problems with these areas (or staff comment on these areas during the inspection) including the identification of, inspection of, or other issues relating to first aid kits, identification of and provision of designated first aid providers, first aid provision reporting, the matter should be referred to the OHS Office.

Comments:

Inspector’s Suggestions (Use additional paper if necessary):

Inspector’s Signature: ________________________________ Date (Y/M/D):      

Inspector’s Signature: ________________________________ Date (Y/M/D):      

Please retain a copy for your files, and send the original to theManager, Maintenance and Operations, Facilities Management.

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Chapter 11: Monitoring and Measurement11.1 Introduction.........................................................................................................7011.2 Measurement of Performance Related to OHS Objectives and Targets............70

11.2.1 Process Indicators........................................................................................70

11.2.3 Outcome Indicators......................................................................................71

11.3 Recording OHS Incidents, Work-related Injuries and Occupational Illnesses....7111.4 Workplace Inspections.......................................................................................7111.5 Exposure Assessment........................................................................................7111.6 Injury and Illness Tracking and Return to Work..................................................7211.7 Occupational Health Assessments.....................................................................7211.8 Reports and Statistics.........................................................................................7211.9 Education and Training.......................................................................................7211.10 Safety Committees...........................................................................................7311.11 Monitoring and Control of Hazardous Materials and Substances.....................7311.12 Emergency Planning and Response................................................................7311.11 Occupational First Aid......................................................................................7311.12 Incident Investigations......................................................................................73

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Chapter 11: Monitoring and Measurement

11.1 IntroductionThe Occupational Health and Safety Act includes a provision for program monitoring of Occupational Health and Safety Programs, as follows: “28 (2) The program shall include (i) provision for monitoring the implementation and effectiveness of the program.” The purpose of a Health and Safety Program is to prevent injury and illness in the workplace. Assessing program effectiveness is undertaken to determine if the program is achieving this purpose.

11.2 Measurement of Performance Related to OHS Objectives and TargetsOHS objectives and targets generally use one of two types of measurement—process indicators and outcome indicators. SMUSA has both process and outcome type indicators.

11.2.1 Process IndicatorsProcess indicators are those which look at the management of OHS activities being carried out and OHS performance as it is occurring. They tend to be more proactive in nature, and are generally tangible, leading to quantitative measurement such as counting records or events. They allow trends to be seen and corrections to be made before an incident occurs. Examples of process indicators include:

completion of the yearly review of the OHS Policy; completion of a SMUSA OHS Annual Report to Board????; production of monthly OHS statistics for review by the JOHS Committee; continued effective functioning of the Safety Committees and

documentation of their activity; completion or updating of hazard identification, risk assessment, and risk

control analyses; development or review of safe work practices; completion of workplace health and safety inspections; completion of investigation of employee concerns in a timely manner; completion of investigation of unsafe work refusals in a timely manner; completion of investigation of workplace incidents in a timely manner; implementation of corrective measures or recommendations from

inspections or investigations in a timely manner; completion of new-employee safety orientations; completion of OHS training for employees, managers or JOHS

Committee; and Completion of or updating of a chapter of the OHS Program.

Process indicators measure OHS activity. They do not measure whether the activity resulted in an improvement in OHS performance.

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11.2.3 Outcome IndicatorsOutcome indicators tend to be reactive in nature. These indicators measure some aspect of OHS performance, and therefore give an indication of whether or not the effort going into the Occupational Health and Safety Program is being effective in meeting objectives and targets and in improving OHS performance overall. Outcome indicators can be either quantitative (such as numbers or rates) or qualitative (such as changes in culture, attitude or responses on an employee survey). Examples include:

progress toward achieving the yearly OHS objectives and targets; number of lost time incidents; number of medical aid incidents; number of first aid incidents; number of near miss incidents; comparison of any of the current statistics to previous year(s) statistics.

Outcome indicators measure results, but do not measure the various efforts which are going into the OHS program elements. For example, they do not indicate whether there was a new safe work practice developed or an increase in training during the past year and the effect that these changes may have had in a downward trend in some statistics.

11.3 Recording OHS Incidents, Work-related Injuries and Occupational IllnessesAll workplace incidents must be reported to the SMUSA manager and the University OHS Office, whether or not there was an injury or illness associated with the incident. An Incident Report Form must be submitted as soon as possible, within two business days. A copy of the incident form can be found at: http://www.smu.ca/webfiles/HealthandsafetyInjuryIncidentReport.pdf.

11.4 Workplace InspectionsInspections are an important way of determining whether established controls, safe work practices, safety rules, etc. that were developed as part of the hazard assessment and control process are in place, being followed and are effective. An inspection also provides a way of identifying any new hazards, especially if anything has changed in the workplace. The process for undertaking workplace inspections and an inspection checklist for office workplaces are laid out in Chapter 13 of this Manual. Statistics from workplace inspections can provide information about the prevalence of risks and the degree to which controls are in place and can provide the basis for decisions about improvements to hazard and risk identification, assessment, and elimination or control.

11.5 Exposure AssessmentFor some occupational hazards, it is not possible to evaluate worker exposure by visual means such as an inspection. Specialized equipment may be needed to measure noise, illumination, temperature, relative humidity, air flow, or some form of chemical contaminant in the air or biological agent (such as mould).

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Assessments can be requested through the General Manager, SMUSA, and Facilities Management. All measurement equipment shall be properly calibrated.

The JOHS Committee shall be informed of planned assessments, and when possible, be allowed to appoint a representative to observe the set-up of the equipment and the undertaking of the measurements. A copy of the results of the assessment will be made available to safety committees and employees when requested.

By comparison with established standards, the results of such assessments can be used to evaluate the presence or absence of an occupational health hazard and the effectiveness of controls can be evaluated. When compared to earlier or later results, trends can be established and the effectiveness of any remedial action evaluated.

11.6 Injury and Illness Tracking and Return to WorkSMUSA uses a case management approach to all absences from work. All workplace injuries and illnesses are recorded and tracked. Any illnesses that require time off work are managed by the Employees’ Manager. This person also coordinates SMUSA’s efforts to return the employee to work, working with medical and rehabilitation specialists as required. Statistics from these programs can provide information about the frequency and severity of work-related injuries and illnesses and the need for additional hazard control efforts or other improvements to the OHS.

11.7 Occupational Health AssessmentsGiven the nature of the work at SMUSA, there will be a limited need for occupational health assessments for SMUSA employees.

When any occupational health assessments are undertaken, the results can be compared to established standards to indicate whether or not a work-related health issue is present. Results may also be compared over time to establish trends for individual employees, or pooled and used to compare to other groups of employees. The results of individual assessments are regarded as confidential medical information, available only to the individual. The General Manager, SMUSA, will maintain a copy of the assessment. However, the individuals may give permission for disclosure. Grouped results or trends which indicate an OHS Hazard to employees may be released.

11.8 Reports and StatisticsThe General Manager, SMUSA, shall provide SMUSA Management and JOHSC with a copy of the following reports, when available, for consideration at its next meeting:

Monthly Summary of Incident Report ; Workplace Inspection Reports; Exposure Assessment Reports; and OHS Incident Investigation Reports.

11.9 Education and TrainingAll managers will ensure that their employees receive an orientation to SMUSA’s OHS Program and workplace-specific safe work practices. In addition, education and training will be provided to ensure that employees know the working procedures for doing their

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job safely. On-going safety training will be provided as new programs, procedures, and equipment are introduced to the workplace.

11.10 Safety CommitteesThe JOHSC will actively promote workplace safety and support the involvement of employees and students in workplace occupational safety and health programs.

11.11 Monitoring and Control of Hazardous Materials and SubstancesSMUSA will monitor, control, and ensure the safe use, storage and disposal of hazardous materials and substances, consistent with the requirements of Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) regulations.

11.12 Emergency Planning and Response(?? Do you have your own plans?) SMUSA worksites need to plan for emergencies that might occur, including having a plan of action for response and evacuation of the workplace. More information on emergency planning and response can be found in the University’s Emergency Management Policy and Plan: http://www.smu.ca/webfiles/5-1006EmergencyMgtPolicy.pdf.

11.11 Occupational First AidSMUSA will ensure that first aid services are available and consistent with the requirements of the First Aid Regulations, which requires that employees be provided with prompt, easily accessible, and appropriate first aid treatment. A number of designated first aid providers are located throughout the Campus; all Security personnel are trained in First Aid and the Student Health Centre has been designated as University’s First Aid room.

11.12 Incident InvestigationsSMUSA will investigate incidents, including “near misses”, as required. Investigation of incidents and elimination or control of the cause is an effective means of ensuring a similar incident does not occur again, with potentially more harmful results. An incident resulting in injury or harmful exposure must be investigated to determine what caused the incident, and how a recurrence can be avoided.

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Chapter 12: Incident Investigation and Analysis12.1 Introduction.........................................................................................................7512.2 Purpose of Incident Investigation........................................................................7512.3 Responsibilities for Incident Reporting and Investigation...................................75

12.3.1 Management.................................................................................................75

12.3.2 Managers......................................................................................................76

12.3.3 Employees....................................................................................................76

12.3.4 JOHS Committee..........................................................................................76

12.3.5 University OHS Office...................................................................................76

12.4 Incident Reporting Within SMUSA......................................................................7712.5 Incident Reporting to Outside Agencies.............................................................78

12.5.1 Labour and Advanced Education..................................................................78

12.6 Incident Investigation..........................................................................................7812.7 Review of Effectiveness of Preventive and Corrective Actions...........................78

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Chapter 12: Incident Investigation and Analysis

12.1 IntroductionA safety investigation is the process of conducting a systematic examination of an event/incident in order to discover the root cause, make recommendations and identify preventive and/or corrective actions. It is the policy of SMUSA that all incidents shall be reported and that all incidents that result in significant personal injury to people or significant damage to property shall be investigated. Significant “near miss” incidents that could have resulted in such loss shall also be investigated.

An incident is any unplanned and unwanted event which results in damage or injury, or which could have resulted in damage or injury. This term includes property or equipment damage as well as personal injury. Injury also includes occupational illness and disease.

12.2 Purpose of Incident InvestigationSMUSA’s intent is to develop a reporting and investigation program that is based on accurate, complete reporting and the thorough analysis of factual information gathered through comprehensive examination of all factors involved. The results of the investigation are meant to be used as a basis for action aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future. It is specifically not the function of this process to assign liability to or find fault with any person or persons.

In addition to incidents involving injury, property damage and lost time, incidents that have been identified as posing potential risk (i.e. near misses) are very important to report and investigate as the risk can be reduced or eliminated before the potential for injury or property damage is realized. Investigating near misses can prevent an incident or accident from happening.

12.3 Responsibilities for Incident Reporting and Investigation

12.3.1 ManagementSMUSA’s Manager is responsible to:

ensure that the Director of Occupational Health and Safety, Department of Labour and Advanced Education is notified of all serious incidents, as required by the OHS Act;

ensure that police and other agencies are notified, where required; ensure that significant incidents are investigated to determine causes; ensure that appropriate measures are implemented to prevent recurrence

of the incidents; ensure that appropriate investigative systems and tools have been

developed; and Ensure that, where required, managers, and Safety Committee Members

are trained in conducting investigations.

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12.3.2 ManagersManagers are responsible to:

ensure all OHS incidents are reported; participate in investigations to determine the cause(s) of incidents (in

cooperation with the General Manager, SMUSA, and the JOHSC; make recommendations for corrective action; Ensure that corrective actions or other appropriate measures are

implemented to prevent recurrence of the incident.

12.3.3 EmployeesEmployees are responsible to:

report all incidents to their Managers; complete the OHS Incident Report Form; co-operate fully with any investigation of the incident, providing all

information relevant to the investigation; Co-operate with the implementation of appropriate measures to prevent

recurrence of the incident.

12.3.4 JOHS CommitteeSafety Committees play an important role in the incident investigation process:

reviewing all incident reports, concern reports and management investigation reports to ensure that corrective action is appropriate and done in a timely manner;

Participating in investigations. This can be done by carrying out their own investigation, participating in management investigations or reviewing management’s investigation reports;

following the completion of the investigation, the JOHSC shall review the report of the incident investigation, including completeness, any recommendations that are made, and whether further investigation may be necessary;

recommending that further investigation of any incident be undertaken where it is felt more information is required to arrive at a satisfactory understanding of the incident or to determine appropriate measures to prevent reoccurrence; and

assisting the General Manager, SMUSA, in making an assessment of the effectiveness of any preventive and corrective actions taken to prevent a recurrence of the incident.

12.3.5 University OHS OfficeThe University OHS office will assist SMUSA in safety, as follows:

provide advice in planning for the investigation of an incident and in the actual conduct of the investigation;

where necessary, seek/recommend professional OHS advice or legal counsel relevant to the investigation;

monitor to ensure that preventive measures are implemented in a timely manner, reporting the conclusions of such monitoring to the Safety Committee;

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Ensure that an assessment is undertaken of the effectiveness of any preventive and corrective actions taken to prevent reoccurrence of the incident. This may involve a follow-up inspection or other evaluation and may require the participation of the Safety Committee; and

provide a Monthly Summary of Incident Reports to the Safety Committees Ensure opportunities for investigation training are provided, where

required.

12.4 Incident Reporting Within SMUSAThe following safety-related incidents shall be reported by completing the OHS Incident Report:

• Any injury to an employee, including all medical aid, including first aid, and lost time incidents;

• Any injury to another member of the Saint Mary’s Community requiring medical treatment;

• Any incident that is included in the definition of the University’s Violence in the Workplace Prevention Policy;

• Any non-injury (near miss) incident which had the potential of causing an injury to the employee, or another member of the Saint Mary’s Community, or cause serious property damage;

• Any serious property damage incident;• Any major spills or releases of chemicals; any major flooding;• Any fires or explosions.

As time is of the essence in undertaking an investigation, this Report should be completed as soon as possible; ideally within 24 hours of the occurrence. A copy of the Incident form can be obtained from the General Manager, SMUSA, or on the OHS Website at: http://www.smu.ca/webfiles/HealthandsafetyInjuryIncidentReport.pdf.

The employee and the manager completing the incident report are expected to provide recommendations for actions to prevent the incident from recurring, in the Prevention section of the incident report.

The original completed, signed Incident Form shall be forwarded to the General Manager, SMUSA and to the University’s OHS office, for statistical input, and follow-up where required.

SMUSA’s JOHSC will periodically review incident and concern statistics and may undertake an investigation based on this review, or when requested by an employee.

It is not mandatory to investigate all non-injury, first aid, non-serious “near miss” or non-serious property damage incidents, although they are reported for statistical purposes. If a series of similar incidents occur, it may be beneficial to investigate to see if there is an unrecognized or inadequately controlled hazard which should be addressed in some way.

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12.5 Incident Reporting to Outside Agencies

12.5.1 Labour and Advanced EducationThe Department of Labour and Advanced Education must be notified of the following:

• A fire or accident in the workplace that causes bodily injury, within seven days;

• An accidental explosion at the workplace, regardless anyone is injured or not, within 24 hours;

• Death or a potentially fatal injury, within 24 hours.

“Bodily injury” is deemed, by the Department of Labour and Advanced Education, to include unconsciousness; loss of a substantial amount of blood; fracture of a leg or arm; amputation of a leg, arm, hand or foot; burns to a major part of the body, loss of sight in an eye and any injury that places life in jeopardy.” The JOHSC will be given a copy of any notifications to the Department of Labour and Advanced Education by SMUSA.

12.6 Incident Investigation In the case of a serious incident or an incident that has resulted in serious injury to a person at or near the workplace, SMUSA Security will secure the scene and any physical evidence, take pictures as necessary, document any eyewitness accounts, provide emergency first and direct emergency vehicles to the scene. The appropriate management representative shall be responsible to ensure an investigation is completed, in consultation with the JOHSC. The University’s OHS Office is available to assist with safety investigations.

Steps in the investigation process are:• Gather information (including physical evidence and interviews)• Analyze the data• Draw conclusions• Make recommendations• Implement recommendations• Follow up

Further detail on each of these steps will be provided during training.

12.7 Review of Effectiveness of Preventive and Corrective ActionsFollowing the reporting and investigation of any OHS incident, the recommendations which have been made and the action which has been taken shall be reviewed to determine the effectiveness of preventive and corrective actions.

This review shall be conducted in consultation with the Safety Committee. The investigation results and recommendations and the review of the effectiveness of

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preventive and corrective actions shall form part of the management review and continual improvement of the OHS Program.

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Appendix A: Form: Results of Hazard Assessment Process

The results of the initial and periodic Hazard Identification, Risk Assessment and Risk Control Process should be recorded on the following form, including identification of actual and potential hazards and subsequent scoring and ranking, as follows.

# Hazard DescriptionSeverit

yProbabilit

y

Severity X Probabilit

y123456

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Appendix B: Form: Safe Work PracticeName of Safe Work Practice

Hazards IdentifiedHazard-Specific Personal Protective EquipmentHazard-Specific Training

Safe Work Practice

(List all the health and safety precautions which must be taken before the task may be started, while it is being done, and at its completion.

Note that the precautions are not in any particular order and that they must all be observed and that they must all be observed while the work is in progress.

If the work must be done in a step by step manner, following a particular order of steps, then a safe job procedure should be developed to supplement the safe work practice, or instead of it.)

(Note: In completing this form, please remove all bracketed instructions)

Regulations, Standards and References

(list)

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Appendix C: Record of First Aid FormThis record is required by Section 8 of the First Aid Regulations and must be maintained for 5 years after the date of injury.

Date and time of injury or illness

Time when first aid was administered

Name of the injured person

Nature of the injuries or illness including body part affected

First aid treatment provided

Name of person who provided first aid

Name of person to whom the injury or illness was reported

This record shall be forwarded to the General Manager, SMUSA, when this page is full and at the end of each fiscal year. The General Manager, SMUSA, shall keep this record for five years after the end of the fiscal year in which it was created.

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Appendix D: NS First Aid Kit #2 Checklist

Inspection Checklist of a #2 First Aid Kit AMOUNTYES/NO

If No, how

many do you

have?

First Aid Guide 1

First Aid Record Form 1

Pencil 1

Safety Pins 12

Splinter tweezers 1

Pair of 100mm scissors 1

Pairs of disposable latex gloves or gloves made of material that provides an equivalent level of protection against the spread of infection or contagious conditions.

2

Sterile bandage compresses (100mm x 100mm) 2

Sterile adhesive dressings (25mm wide) 24

Sterile pads (75mm x 75 mm) 16

Triangular bandages (1m) 6

Roller bandage (50mm wide) 2

Roll of adhesive tape ( 25mm wide by 2.5m long) 1

Marked plastic bag for the disposal of biohazardous waste 1

Airway barrier device for rescue breathing 1

Individually wrapped towellettes with an adequate antiseptic 12

Hand cleaners 24Location: ______________________ Inspected by:

____________________________ Date: _____________

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Appendix E: NS First Aid Kit #3 Checklist

Inspection Checklist of a #3 First Aid Kit AMOUNTYES/NO

If No, how

many do you

have?

First Aid Guide 1

First Aid Record Form 1

Pencil 1

Safety Pins 12

Splinter tweezers 1

Pair of 100mm scissors 1

Pairs of disposable latex gloves or gloves made of material that provides an equivalent level of protection against the spread of infection or contagious conditions.

4

Sterile bandage compresses (100mm x 100mm) 6

Sterile adhesive dressings (25mm wide) 32

Sterile pads (75mm x 75 mm) 32

Triangular bandages (1m) 6

Roller bandage (50mm wide) 3

Roll of adhesive tape ( 25mm wide by 2.5m long) 2

Marked plastic bag for the disposal of biohazardous waste 1

Airway barrier device for rescue breathing 1

Individually wrapped towellettes with an adequate antiseptic 12

Hand cleaners 24Location: ______________________ Inspected by: _______________________ Date: ______________

1