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for career, learning and employment informal, oa To access this
and additional publications, visit www.ahs.gov.ab.ca/careershop
For copyright information contact
Alberta Human Resources and Employment
People, Skills and Workplace Resources
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Catalogue Item #454992
This information was accurate, to the best of our knowledge, at the time of printing. Labour market
information and educational programs are subject to change, and you are encouraged to confirm
with additional sources of information when making career, education and employment decisions.
ISBN 0-7785-1619-9 .
© 2006 Government of Alberta, Human Resources and Employment
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11/2006 - 50M
Table of Contents
X-treme risk ^
X-treme safety 4
lt5ll never happen to me 5
Real life, real people ^
Risky business g
Beat the odds g
What’s safe? What isn’t?
How do you find a hazard? g
What’s your hazard IQ? 12
If you are hurt at work 14
Hey! You’ve got rights and responsibilities ]5
Unsafe work - What is it? 15
You gotta do it . .
16
Employer responsibilities 17
Rules of the game ^
Are you under 18?
Real life, real people ig
Talking to the boss 22
10 questions to ask your employer 23
How did your employer do? 24
The health and safety partnership 26
How to say “No” at work 27
Survival tips .
28
The boss insists 2g
What would you do? ^
You’re not bulletproof ^2
I Chose to Look the Other Way 33
Worker Orientation Health and Safety Checklist 34
Getting help . .
„ , 36
The last word
■ 40
m dS SR
j2MbL
•© Government of Alberta, Human Resources, and Employment
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
This publication would not have been possible without the generous
assistance of organizations and individuals who contributed valuable
information and shared their real-life stories. Alberta Human
Resources and Employment, People, Skills and Workplace Resources
gratefully acknowledges all those who participated in this project.
Adecco Employment Services Limited
Alberta Human Resources and Employment
Alberta Job Safety Skills Society
Alberta Education
Elk Island Public Schools
Federation of Labour - British Columbia
Workers’ Compensation Board - Alberta
Workplace Safety and Insurance Board - Ontario
Workplace Health and Safety Centre - Ontario
Youth Connections - Edmonton
Vaughn Webb
Julia Hamilton
Snowboarders hurtle over mountain slopes. BASE jumpers soar
like eagles from cliffs, waiting until the last heart-stopping second
to pull their rip cords. And every day, thousands of young people
go to work assuming they are safe, assuming they are bulletproof -
now that’s risky.
Just like the mountain and the cliff, your worksite can be dangerous
if you’re not prepared. No matter what you do, or what job you have
hazards exist. Whether you're a store clerk, landscape gardener,
truck driver, painter, hairstylist, waitress or cook, there is always
an element of risk.
And, if you’re under 25 years of age, you are 1/3 more likely to' be
injured on the job than those over 25.
Find out the hazards at your workplace and learn how to stay
healthy and safe.
In this booklet, you’ll learn about the rules of the game and the
equipment you need to stay safe. You’ll get tips on talking to your
co-workers and your boss about creating a safe, healthy and fair
workplace. We’ll help you develop strategies so you can win -
so you can stay healthy and safe at work!
Earning your own paycheque is an exciting step towards independence.
Work is an adventure of doing new things, making your own decisions
and taking responsibility.
You’re like a rock climber surveying the rock face before the climb.
You’ll get the rush of succeeding at the challenges that lie ahead.
But, before you take that first handhold, whether you are scaling
a mountain or entering a new job, you II need to.
H know the rules
□ assess the risks and have a plan to deal
with them
□ have proper training
■ use personal protective equipment (PPE)
and protective clothing
Here’s reality. Lots of people your age have been hurt while at
work. They didn’t plan it. They didn’t expect it. You, too, could lose
a finger, a leg or spend months or years in the hospital. You may
never be able to play your favourite sport again. Or go dancing.
Or drive a car...
Still don’t think it could happen to you? It can.
In Alberta, on average, 9 young people are killed on the job each
year. That’s 9 funerals, 9 families/ We’re not talking about gang
violence or drunk driving. These were kids who had jobs... kids who
were killed - at work. On average, 7,328 lost time claim injuries
happen to young workers like you every year.
Reality check
Who’s important in your life? Who do you care about’
How would you feel if they didn’t come home from
work one day? Or if they could no longer walk?
1
\
REAL LIFE,
REAL PEOPLE
Timothy Hamilton, a 19-year-old high
school graduate, working to make
money for college, was killed
at work less than two months after
he was hired. Tim was asked to raise
a 28-foot (8.53 m) aluminium centre
pole from inside a large canvas tent.
Above the tent, where Tim couldn t
see, was a 14,400-volt power line only
27 feet (8.23m) off the ground. Tim
was electrocuted and died instantly. Even though the law requires
employers to keep workers 10 feet (3.05m) away from such live
power lines, Tim was asked to do something dangerous. The
company was fined $100,000 for failing to protect its workers.
But that didn’t give Tim his life back.
Learn more at www.missingtim.com
A HAZARD IS ANY SITUATION THAT COULD
■ RESULT IN INJURY, DISEASE, OR DEATH
Vaughn Webb, in his younger years
enjoyed playing sports, hiking, outdoor
activities and even won a trophy for Tae-
Kwon-Do. He met his lovely wife Melissa
| in his early 20’s, and together they
started to raise their family. Then he was
badly shocked while working around a
high voltage power line, losing an arm
and a leg, and sustaining third degree
I burns to 70% of his body. His life
changed forever. Hindsight is always
20/20, and Vaughn now realizes he should have refused to
perform this task. Vaughn was very fortunate to have survived
After the incident, he fought hard to live. The pain that Vaughn's
wife, family and friends suffered was very intense as they
watched someone that they loved fight for his life. Vaughn
cannot go back and change the events that happened on that
day. But he has maintained a positive attitude towards sharing
his story in hopes of preventing another incident like this one
Vaughn has accepted, as best he can, his present condition and
he is using the incident in a very positive way to share
information and to be productive in life.
You can e-mail Vaughn at vwebb@speaksafe.ca
RISKY BUSINESS
Find out if you are at risk at your job.
These are only some of the more common
risk factors.
Check all that apply to you:
I | ive had my job for less than six months
□ I’m a guy (don’t be offended, you’re seriously more at risk!)
I I |’m under 25 years of age
□ l sometimes go partying the night before an early shift
□ I sometimes get very few hours of sleep before starting work
□ I’m always under pressure to work quickly
CD I tend to think an injury won’t ever happen to me
□ I've never had health and safety training for my specific job
□ I try to impress my boss or co-workers and don't like asking
questions
I | | use the same tool all day long
CD I have to lift, push, or pull heavy things
□ I use chemicals or work around toxic substances or gases
□ I sometimes use a ladder or climb onto something else
to reach things
CD I work alone
CD I work in a crowded area
CD It’s very noisy where I work
CD I work in extremely hot or cold conditions
CD I drive or operate moving equipment or machinery
CD I work around electrical equipment or power lines
□ | work around an oven, deep fryer, or other hot substances
objects or substances
If you checked even one, a workplace injury could do more than
ruin your weekend. The great thing is that you can change it -
you can learn x-treme safety at work.
BEAT THE ODDS
So you know you’re at risk - the numbers prove it. What can you
do about it? Lots. Learn how to spot a hazard, learn how to deal with
each hazard, learn your rights, and learn how to speak up for yourself.
A perfectly safe and healthy workplace would have no hazards.
There would be no machines, equipment or materials that could
harm you - nothing would malfunction, not even humans!
Unfortunately, many workplace hazards are so familiar that we
ignore them and put ourselves, and sometimes others, at risk.
Reality check
A 17-year-old groundskeeper didn’t know that the
gloves he was wearing had been in contact with gasoline.
When he struck a lighter, the gloves caught fire and he
received third degree burns to his arm and back.
HOW DO YOU FIND A HAZARD?
Ask yourself What if? questions. What if I bump into the open
containers of hot oil? What if the forklift tips over on my co-worker
in a fast turn? What if I inhale the toxic fumes from the toilet
cleaning chemicals?
Learning to spot a hazard - before an incident happens - is the first
step to staying safe. Every job will have slightly different hazards.
The medical field, for example, will have different hazards than the
construction industry.
Got a new job?
Over 50 per cent of all incidents involving young
workers occur during their first six months on the
job. Make sure you get health and safety traininq -
it’s your right!
Wherever you work, there are 4 main types of hazards:
PHYSICAL HAZARDS
Equipment, machinery or tools, very hot or cold temperatures
Examples:
□ Using the same tool all day long
H Being crushed by equipment
H Using electric equipment with frayed cords
□ Tripping on items lying on the floor
□ Falling from heights
O Working in a noisy place
BIOLOGICAL HAZARDS
Bacteria, viruses, insects, fungi, mold or plant
materials
Examples:
IB Bee stings
□ Allergic reaction to plants,
insects or mold
H Being in contact with materials
where viruses or bacteria
are present
CHEMICAL HAZARDS
Vapours, gases, dusts, fumes, or chemical mists
Examples:
H Using cleaning products regularly
□ Using paint materials regularly
□ Working around lots of dust
□ Exposure to asbestos
■ Using toxic chemicals
PSYCHOSOCIAL HAZARDS
Workplace violence, working conditions, stress, fatigue
Examples:
■ Intimidation, verbal abuse
□ Working long hours
H Rotating shift work
WHAT’S YOUR HAZARD I.Q.?
Identify the types of hazards below. The ability to recognize
a hazard will help you stay safe - at work or anywhere.
1. A new worker has received verbal threats from the Journeyman.
The new worker is now scared to come to work.
□ physical El biological B chemical □ psychosocial
2. A security guard has just completed her day shift. Her team
leader called and asked her to be back at work for the
graveyard shift.
11 physical □ biological H chemical ■ psychosocial
3. A skateboarder plans to jump and slide down a rail. The front
wheels of the board are loose and missing a screw but it’s a
great trick.
□ physical □ biological □ chemical ■ psychosocial
4. A college student has a part-time job cleaning a building. He is
always using industrial strength cleaners and once a month has
to use a special cleaner that is quite toxic.
11 physical □ biological □ chemical B psychosocial
5. A worker is hired to clean the stadium and empty the garbage
bins after sports events and concerts. She doesn’t wear gloves
as she finds them uncomfortable. What type of hazard is this?
□ physical □ biological □ chemical U psychosocial
6. A junior high school student gets a job at the local pizza joint.
His job involves cutting pizzas as they come out of the oven.
In one day, he cuts more than 50 pizzas.
IB physical □ biological IB chemical H psychosocial
7. A high school student and his buddy go mountain biking in
Banff. Even though he’s unfamiliar with the steep terrain and
sharp corners, he speeds down the path.
B physical B biological H chemical 13 psychosocial
8. A hospital worker often forgets to wash her handstand
sometimes doesn’t bother wearing gloves.
B physical □ biological B chemical B psychosocial
9. Workers in an office complained of headaches, eye irritation and
being tired. It was discovered that delivery vehicles were parked
and left idling below the air intake system, which provided air to
the building.
H physical fl biological B chemical D psychosocial
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HOW DID YOU DO?
8-9 correct answers -
6-7 correct answers -
4-5 correct answers -
0-3 correct answers -
Awesome
Gearing up
Cliff hanger
Crash
© Government of Alberta, Human Resources and Employment
Work alone?
Will someone hear you if you’re in trouble?
Working alone means working where help is
not readily available in the event of an
injury, illness or emergency. It’s another
kind of hazard. To find out more and to
obtain a free copy of the handbook
Working Alone Safely, call the
Workplace Health and Safety Contact
Centre at 1-866-415-8690 or visit
www.worksafely.org
IF YOU ARE HURT AT WORK
Even if your employer has a good injury prevention program, you or
one of your co-workers could be hurt on the job. Here's what to do.
I
1
Tell your employer
2 Get medical treatment, if required
J Fill out a Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) Report of
** Injury form
Think your injury is no big deal? Follow these steps anyway.
The information will help your doctor to best treat your injury.
It will also help your employer find ways to improve workplace
health and safety practices - to prevent a similar or worse injury
from happening again.
Did you know that it’s against the law for anyone to force you
to do work that you think is unsafe? Did you also know that it’s
against the law for an employer to operate an unsafe business?
You have a right to work in a safe and healthy environment.
Know your rights.
□ Right to Know ...about workplace hazards BEFORE
you start work
□ Right to Refuse ...unsafe work
UNSAFE WORK - WHAT IS IT?
Any task where you believe there is danger to your health or safety
or that of another worker. The law defines imminent danger as
danger that is not - or shouldn’t be - a normal part of the job.
(For example: entering an unprotected trench).
It’s a situation where the risks to your safety outweigh your ability
to protect yourself. If you feel you are in imminent danger, remove
yourself from the situation and talk with your supervisor.
i
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i
i
YOU GOTTA DO IT
You have a part to play too - just like it's up to a cyclist to wear a
helmet or a skydiver to pull their own ripcord. By law, workers must
take reasonable care to protect their own health and safety - and that
of other workers on the job site. As a worker, you've got to:
□ follow the health and safety procedures for your job
□ ask for training if you don't know how to do something safely
□ work safely and encourage your co-workers to do the same
■ use all required personal protective equipment and clothing
■ immediately report any unsafe conditions to your supervisor
■ inform your supervisor if you have a physical, mental or emotional
issue that could affect your ability to work safely.
Drive a car? Ever taken a defensive
driving course? Even though you may
have the right-of-way, that doesn’t
mean other drivers follow the rules.
You have to watch out for yourself.
Job safety is no different. Learn to
spot danger ahead of time -
avoid the crash.
EMPLOYER RESPONSIBILITIES
Your boss has a duty to watch out for your health and safety - as far
as is reasonable to do so. Bottom line, the law says your boss must:
■ make sure you have the necessary training, qualifications and
experience for the job
a let you know about all health and safety hazards at your job
■ provide certain types of personal protective equipment (PPE)
HI make sure you know how to use your PPE
M train you to handle dangerous products
□1 investigate any incidents that caused injuries
H investigate any “near misses”
H follow the Employment Standards Code.
RULES OF THE GAME
Ever wonder how many hours you have to work before you get a
break? What about getting paid for overtime? What’s the minimum
wage? Are you old enough to work the graveyard shift? How much
notice should you give? Are you entitled to maternity leave? In
Alberta, the Employment Standards Code provides the answers to
these questions and more. To find out more about the rules of the
game, call 310-0000 toll-free anywhere in Alberta and dial (780)
427-3731 or go to www.worksafely.org
© Government of Alberta, Hun
ARE YOU UNDER 18?
There are specific rules that apply to you. If you are between the
ages of 12 and 14 years you are considered an “adolescent and
need a permit to work at any job other than clerking in an office
or retail store, delivering flyers or certain jobs in the restaurant
industry. A permit will only be granted if the employer has the
written consent of your parent or guardian, has completed a
safety checklist and can satisfy Employment Standards that the
employment is not likely to be harmful to your life, health,
education or welfare. Adolescents can't be employed for more
than two hours on a school day, eight hours on a non-school
day and at all between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m.
If you are a “young person” between the ages of 15 and 17 years
you don't need a permit to work. However, restaurants, bars,
all retail stores, gas stations, hotels and motels have special
restrictions when employing young persons. In these businesses,
young persons may not be employed without the continuous
presence of someone 18 or older after 9 p.m. and cannot be
employed at all between midnight and 6 a.m. For a young person
to work after midnight in other occupations requires the consent of
their parent or guardian and the continuous presence of someone
18 years of age or older.
If you're in a high school Work Experience Program, your hours
of work may be different. Check with your Work Experience
Co-ordinator.
Reality check
Your employer asks you to remain working after
midnight and you’re 15 years old. What would you do.
REAL LIFE,
REAL PEOPLE
NICOLE’S STORY*
I work part time at a small fast-food restaurant in my town. Our
specialities are burgers and fries but we have a lot of other stuff
too. Its a really busy place and we are always running to keep up
with the customers. We all share in the work when it comes to
getting the fries cooking. Two years ago, when I was dumping
some fries in the hot oil to cook, there was a big splash. The hot
oil covered my left arm and splashed my body in a few other
places. The pain was unbelievable. I received third-degree burns
to my arm. It took 14 months of skin grafts to get my arm to heal
and there s a major scar that will never go away. I never dreamed
that anything like this would ever happen to me.
* used with the permission of Workplace Safety and Insurance Board, Ontario
Reality check
A department store hired a 16-year-old to work alone
after school as a cleaner. One of his tasks was to cram
discarded cardboard into a compactor-baler. His body
was found trapped in the baler.
* ■ :
1
CINDY’S STORY*
My older brother Scott was working for an electrical contractor.
They were rewiring some machine on an assembly line in a factory.
It was supposedly a small job. They were only supposed to be
there for the morning. Scott started undoing the screws where the
wires attach and he got electrocuted. He died almost immediately
they said. We found out later that the electrical connections hadn t
been “locked out” but Scott didn’t know it. If the machine had been
locked out, there wouldn’t have been any power in the wires.
Scott used to talk about his job all the time. But he never, ever said
anything about health or safety training. The investigation showed
that Scott never had any kind of health or safety training for his
job - even though it was his right. I wish Scott had known about
his rights. He would probably still be alive. I miss Scott so much.
It’s so different without him around. I still can’t believe he’s gone.
* used with the permission of Workplace Safety and Insurance Board, Ontario
Reality check
You work in a restaurant and your boss isn’t around
much. The head cook is in charge and thinks it’s fun
to throw knives to other workers in the kitchen. You
know this is dangerous and puts everyone at risk.
You know you have a right to a safe workplace.
What should you do?
ROB’S STORY*
I know all about getting injured at work. It happened to me. I got
a job last summer working with a homebuilder. We were putting
the floor on a new house. I backed up a couple of steps and BOOM!
The next thing I know I'm laying in the basement of this place and
my leg is broken. The pain was so intense. I was screaming. They
took me to the hospital and put a plate and pins in my leg, just
below my knee. The doctor says if I'm lucky, I’ll get the full movement
back. But it’s already been a year. It is getting better but it’s really
slow. Nobody ever told me that openings in the floor should be
barricaded to keep us from slipping through them. If only they had
told me.
used with the permission of Workplace Safety and Insurance Board, Ontario
Job shadowing/work experience
No big deal right? Wrong! Even if it’s only for a few
hours or a few days doing work experience or job
shadowing, ask your supervisor to explain the risks of
the job site and how to protect yourself. Injuries have
happened to students too.
10 QUESTIONS
TO ASK YOUR EMPLOYER
Getting ready for a job interview or starting a new job? Ask these
questions. Find out how serious your boss will be about your health
and safety.
H What are the hazards of my job?
2 Are there any other hazards that I should know about?
S Wil1 1 receive job training?
4 Do you have health and safety meetings?
5 Is there protective equipment I’ll be expected to wear?
Will I receive training in how to use it? When?
@ Will I be trained in emergency procedures (fire, chemical spill)
When?
i
a
a
7
i
i
Where are fire extinguishers, first aid kits and other
equipment located?
emergency
What do I do if I get hurt? Who is the first aid person?
What are my health and safety responsibilities?
Who do I ask if I have a health or safety question?
HOW DID YOUR EMPLOYER DO?
You can, check your employer’s answers with the facts below.
ej By law, your employer must tell you about any hazards at the
® workplace.
e* Not all hazards affect you right away. High noise levels, over
* time, lead to hearing loss. Working with radiation, dusts and
chemicals can increase your risk of diseases like cancer. Your
employer must tell you about these “hidden” hazards.
Your employer must make sure you have the skills to safely do
your work. If you’re still learning, you must be under the direct
supervision of someone who has these skills. Learn all the skills
you need before you do a new job on your own or alone.
Health and safety meetings are not mandatory in Alberta but
if your employer holds them, it’s a sign of their commitment
to your health and safety.
Lungs and ears...The law requires employers to provide
protective equipment where there is a breathing hazard or
where legal noise limits are exceeded. However, your employer
isn’t required to provide hard hats, safety boots, flame resistant
clothing or eye protection. If PPE is necessary, your employer
must make sure you use it.
You must be trained in emergency procedures - in case of fire,
chemical spills, etc. If you're working with chemicals, specia
training is required before you start work.
7 Your emP,oyer must control the hazards at your workplace by
providing fire extinguishers and other special equipment You
must be told where this stuff is and how to use it.
8 If you're injured, get first aid and report your injury to your
employer as quickly as possible. The law says your employer
must provide on-site first aid equipment. Most employers are
required to have people present with first aid training.
® You are expected to do your best to protect your own and your
co-workers' health and safety. This means if you're asked to do
something that may put you or your co-workers in danger, the
law says you must refuse to do that task.
@ If you have a health or safety question, the first person you
should ask is your employer, usually your supervisor, as they
know your workplace the best. You can also phone the
Workplace Health and Safety Contact Centre. It’s a free
confidential call, 1-866-415-8690. Or go to www.worksafely.org
Tough guy?
If you’re a guy age 15-24, you are more likely to be
injured on the job than any other worker.
j
i
Government of Alberta, Human Resources and Employment
THE HEALTH AND
SAFETY PARTNERSHIP
Your health and safety is a partnership between you and the
employer. When the partnership is working well, it might look like
this.
EMPLOYER
YOU
Listen up! Pay attention.
Take the training
Tells you there is a hazard
Provides training
Holds health and safety meetings Attend the meetings
Wear it properly
(according -to the instructions)
Know where they are and how ,
to use them
Know who and where they are
Provides protective equipment
Provides fire extinguishers
Provides trained first aid
staff and kits
Sometimes you may have to take the lead for the partnership to
work effectively. Then it may look like this.
i.
EMPLOYER
YOU
Ignores health and safety
Asks you to do something
dangerous
Talk to the employer about the
benefits of workplace health and
safety. Be Involved in making
changes
Don’t do it. Talk it out.
Take a stand. Share this
booklet with them
To start things off on the right foot, ask your employer to give you
a health and safety orientation to your worksite. You m^ht even
want to suggest using the “Worker Oriental, onHealth and Safety
Say “No”? Yeah right I finally landed this job and I want it to work out.
How can I tell my supervisor I won’t do something if it’s dangerous?
Although it may be awkward to talk about, most employers want
to keep their workers healthy and safe and appreciate hearing
suggestions - it makes their job easier. A safe and healthy workplace
also means lower insurance premiums for your employer.. Pointing
out safety concerns and the benefits of a safe, healthy workplace
can be a great way to gain the respect of your boss. It’s also your
responsibility as a worker.
The law protects you
Each Canadian province has a law to help keep work
sites safe and healthy. It’s called the Occupational
Health and Safety (OHS) Act in Alberta. These laws
are a little different in each province. In Alberta, call
the Workplace Health and Safety Contact Centre
at 1-866-415-8690 or visit the website at
www.worksafely.org
You don’t have to tell them your name.
• . >.
SURVIVAL TIPS
You may want to first ask the advice of a trusted co-worker
Then, try to work things out with your direct supervisor. Only speak
with their boss if your supervisor doesn't deal with your concerns.
Don’t go over any heads first.
When you approach your supervisor, make sure your attitude is
respectful and positive - it’ll show when you're talking. Express your
desire for doing the job right, doing it safely. Here are some examples:
Politely ask your supervisor for a minute of their time. Then say...
»| really want to make sure I do this job right. What should I know
about doing it safely?”
“I’d like to do this job but I
What do you think?”
think it could be dangerous, [say why]
“I need some training before I do this job. Any suggestions?
Depending on the situation, a good supervisor may choose to:
□ remove any hazards so the task is safe (if that's possible)
□ train you on-the-spot
□ get another worker to do the task until you've received training
□ arrange for you to learn by working with another worker who
has experience.
THE BOSS INSISTS
If you've tried to talk to your employer and he/she still insists that
you do unsafe work, here are some examples of what you can say:
"I've been taught that it's against the law for me to do a task that
I believe could be dangerous. I really like my job but I can't do
this task...
...until I’ve got training to do it safely
...until the equipment is working properly
OR
...until someone holds the base of the ladder
©R
...until I've got a respirator so I don't get sick from the fumes
OK
...until we’re both certain that I
injured.”
can do this job without getting
What if my boss wants me to do something right
a gut feeling that it’s not safe?
away and I’ve
got
Trust your gut. If in doubt, don't do it. Then use any of the surviva
Rem h6 ‘h d6al y°Ur bOSS' °r y°U may think of a better w,
Remember, do it with respect, stay calm and you’ll be okay.
Keep your cool
Every boss will react a little differently. Most employers will be grateful
for your input, but others may not be. You may express your concern
once and everything may turn out great. Or, you may have to talk
with your boss several times before things change. Your boss might
get impatient or even angry, but things may still turn out okay - or
not. Unfortunately, there is no guarantee for the perfect ending.
YOU CAN’T BE FIRED!
Wait a minute. If I tell my boss I think a job is unsafe, I'll get fired. Right?
Wrong' That would be illegal. The Occupational Health and Safety
Act states: No person shall dismiss or take any other discipknary
action against a worker because that person did what the OHS Act
told them to do.
TOUGH CHOICES
If you’ve tried to work things out with your boss and it’s not going
great, you may decide to quit your job if your health or safety is at
risk. Your life is more important than any job. It’s more important
than your work ethic or your resume. And, even though the law says
you can’t be fired for refusing unsafe work, you could come across
an employer who doesn’t handle things properly and lets you go.
Of course, you’d have every right to take legal action and you may
wish to report the employer. To get help, call the Workplace Health
and Safety Contact Centre at 1-866-415-8690 or visit the websit
at www.worksafely.org
Get a buddy. If you’re really scared to talk to your
boss don’t just give up. Find someone you trust.
Get a pal at work, and if possible, talk with VOu^oss
tooether Or, tell your concerns to a parent, an aunt or
uncle, an older friend, a teacher, your work experience
co-ordinator or a youth worker that may be able to
give you advice.
WHAT WOULD YOU DO?
Circle the best answer:
You re a server at a local restaurant. The cook became ill and had
to go home .n the middle of her shift. The joint is packed and vour
boss tells you to get in the kitchen and start cooking You cook at
a. call your mom
b. convince the other servers to promote raw vegetarian dishes
c. ask your boss to teach and assist you
a. watch home improvement shows more often
b. let your supervisor know your concerns
c. go for lunch
windows on the second floor. The ladder is small and ^
you do? rSaCh thS Wind°WS iS t0 Stand on the tQP run9- What should
a' t^sid^oUhtLCMnr r°ck-c,imbin9 ^ipment to scale
b‘ you rch' ‘W° tWCk telephone books under the 'adder to help
c. find a longer ladder,
to your supervisor
if there
is one, or explain the hazard
You've seen the stats, read the stories and learned the survival
skills. You know what it takes to stay healthy and safe at work.
If you forget the details, remember these three things.
GET REAL
1
Want to show the world what you can do? Great! But remember
impressing others isn't worth your safety. Staying healthy and sa
starts with your head. Be aware of potential hazards around you.
What have you got to lose? Do you really think you're bulletproof.
Get real.
GET THE KNOW-HOW
Imagine that in one week you're going to jump out of a plane. You
need to know how to jump, how to open your parachute and how
to land safely. What if your chute doesn't open? Do you know your
emergency procedures? Wouldn't you want these skills ; before you
jump? Before you jump into work, get the skil s you ■
training before doing something new and find out the hazards o
your job. Get the know-how. And, record your recognized workplace
health and safety training in your Work Safe Passport.
GET THE GEAR
to one would think of ice climbing without proper footwear^ ropes,
climbing harnesses and ice axes. The risk can be just as teal at work
so buckle up. Protective clothing and equipment may save
than your skin. So, get the gear and learn to use it!
I CHOSE TO LOOK
THE OTHER WAY
I could have saved a life that day,
But I chose to look the other way.
It wasn’t that I didn’t care,
I had the time and I was there.
But I didn’t want to seem the fool,
Or argue over a safety rule.
I knew he had done the job before,
If I called it wrong, he might get sore.
The chances didn’t seem that bad,
I’ve done the same, he knew I had.
So I shook my head and walked on by,
He knew the risks as well as I.
He took the chance; I closed an eye,
And with that act, I let him die.
I could have saved a life that day,
But I chose to look the other way.
Now every time I see his wife,
I’ll know I should have saved his life.
That guilt is something I must bear,
But it isn’t something you need to share.
If you see a risk that others take,
That puts their health or life at stake,
The question asked or things you say,
Could help them live another day.
If you see a risk and walk away,
Then hope you never have to say,
I could have saved a life that day,
But I chose to look the other way.
-Author Unknown
i
\Hr
¥A¥B©[N]
GnIECKLIST
This checklist is a guideline for conducting a health and safety
orientation for workers new to a company or to a department.
Once completed and signed by both the supervisor and the worker,
i't serves as documentation that proper orientation has taken place.
Worker’s Name Job Title
Supervisor’s Name Company Name
Date Hired Orientation Date_
Place a check in each box to indicate that the topic has been covered.
Explain the company health and safety program including.
^ El Orientation
3 On-the-job training
3 Health and safety meetings
3 Incident investigation and reporting
O Function of the health and safety committee (if there is one)
Personal protective equipment:
H Hard hats
□ Safety glasses
□ High visibility vests
a Rubber gloves
□ Respiratory protective equipment
□ Other protective equipment specific to job
Lines of communication and responsibility for reporting
’ incidents and “near misses”:
□ When to report an injury
3 How to report an injury
H To whom an injury should be reported
□ Filing an incident report form
41 Review hazards related to specific job duties-
Example: If you use a forklift truck at work, what are the hazards
ana how do you avoid an injury or incident?
B Physical hazards (ladders, electricity, repetitive work, hot oil etc)
■ Chemical hazards (cleaning chemicals, toxic substances, dust
paint, asbestos etc.)
□ Biological hazards (bacteria, viruses, fungi, mold, insects etc.)
sychosocial hazards (stress, fatigue, workplace violence etc.)
<5 First aid suPPlies, equipment and training-
11 Obtaining first aid treatment
H Location of first aid stations
B Location and names of staff with first aid training
(1) Emergency plan:
Q Exit locations and evacuation routes
□ Use of fire fighting equipment (extinguishers, hose)'
■ Specific procedures (medical, chemical, fire etc.)
7 Vehicle safety check procedure:
■ Safety and speed regulations
■ Operating licence is appropriate for vehicle
|§ Personal work habits:
" an)fnXeynrCuTes0f "°‘ f°lbwin9 the health
□ Inattention
■ Smoking policy
Hi Good housekeeping practices
■ Proper lifting techniques
checkksThave'b^n d arS that the topics contained in this
checklist have been discussed to the satisfaction of the worker and
the supervisor, and that both parties accept responsibHitTfor
maintaining a safe and healthy workplace.
r.
3k •
If you’ve got a question or a concern about workplace health
and safety, pick up the phone and call any of these organizations.
Or, get what you need online.
Alberta Human Resources and Employment
Employment Standards
Phone: (780) 427-3731 or toll-free in Alberta,
dial 310-0000 and then (780) 427-3731
Website: www.hre.gov.ab.ca/employmentstandards
Employment standards are minimum standards of employment
for employers and employees in the workplace. You can get a
free copy of the Employment Standards Guide by phoning the
office or downloading it from the website.
Alberta Human Resources and Employment
Workplace Health and Safety
Phone: 1-866-415-8690 toll-free in Alberta
Website: www.worksafely.org
Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) helps employers and workers
ensure safe, healthy and productive workplaces in Alberta. More
than 200 free publications on health and safety are available at this
website or by phone request. Order your copy of Working Alone
Safely - or check out other topics and activities like e-learning
programs and quizzes on the web. You can also phone for
confidential advice.
Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety
Phone: 1-800-263-8466
Website: www.ccohs.ca
Get answers to questions or concerns about health and safety
Job Safety Skills Society
Phone: 1-866-513-6876
Website: www.jobsafetyskills.com
A not-for-profit partnership of industry, education and government
Instructor led junior high and high school training courses are
available to prepare youth to be healthy and safe workers. Contact
Job Safety Skills Society to find schools in your area that offer
these courses.
Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) - Alberta
Phone: (780) 498-3999 for general inquiries or 1-866-922-9221 toll-
free in Alberta
Website: www.wcb.ab.ca
The Workers’ Compensation Board - Alberta is a not-for-profit
mutual insurance company funded entirely by employers. The WCB
provides cost effective workplace liability and disability insurance to
workers and employers.
Get smart
Learn more about workplace health and safety'
Take a course in First Aid, CPR and/or WHMIS
(Workplace Hazardous Materials Information
System) or any other health
and safety training.
Don’t forget to record
your training in your
Work Safe Passport.
OTHER RESOURCES
Alberta Career Information Hotline
Access information on career planning, work search skills,
educational options, occupational descriptions, educa lona
funding and referrals through the Alberta Career l"f°r™ti°
Hotline advisors. Call the Hotline in Edmonton at 422-4266
or o -free in Alberta at 1-800-661-3753. Deaf or hard of hearing
individuals in Edmonton with TDD cal,
Alberta call 1-800-232-7215 for message relay service. You ca
e-mail the Hotline at hotline@alis.gov.ab.ca
Alberta Learning Information Service (ALIS) website
www.alis.gov.ab.ca
Opportunity starts here. ALIS is Alberta's leading °"-J'"^°urce
for career learning and employment information. You II find the
resources' you need to make the most of your future. Stay informed
and take control. If it has to do with your working life and your
working rights, it’s here.
Youth Connections
If you are between the ages of 16 and 24 and looWngfor earner
planning information, then Youth Connections s for YOU Youth
Connections staff can help you access information on the labou
market resume writing, job search, career and education options,
occupations and more. Youth Connections sites art > contracte
Alberta Human Resources and Employment. Call the Care
information Hotline (listed above) for the location of a Youth
Connections office near you!
WHMIS* HAZARD CLASSES
Class A - Compressed Gas
A) Class B - Flammable and Combustible
Material
Class C - Oxidizing Material
Class D-l - Poisonous and Infectious Material
(Material Causing Immediate and Serious Effects)
Class D-2 - Poisonous and Infectious Material
(Materials Causing Other Toxic Effects)
Class D-3 - Poisonous and Infectious Material
(Biohazardous Infectious Materials)
Class E - Corrosive Material
M
Class F - Dangerously Reactive Material
"WHMIS - Workplace Hazardous Materials
Information System
SI
V
%
NOW THAT YOU’VE READ THE
SURVIVAL GUIDE YOU HAVE NO
EXCUSE TO BE A STATISTIC.
The top dangers for young workers in the workplace*
An analysis of claims from young workers injured on the job in
Alberta reveals the most dangerous tasks.
15-19 year olds:
| Working with machinery - open wounds
2 Lifting objects - causing sprains, strains and tears
3 Working on elevated levels - causing sprains, strains, tears
and fractures
4 Falling - causing sprains, strains, tears and fractures
§ Working with hot substances or objects - causing burns
(g Working with knives - causing cuts and lacerations
7 Working with food slicers - causing cuts and lacerations
g Using skids and pallets - causing sprains, strains, tears and
surface wounds
g Using jacks - causing sprains, strains, tears and surface wounds
I© Operating powered handtools - causing cuts and lacerations
|| Working with saws - causing cuts and lacerations
20-24 year olds:
1 Falling - causing sprains, strains, tears and fractures
2 Lifting objects - causing sprains, strains and tears
3 Operating mobile equipment or motor vehicles, including
forklifts - causing sprains, strains, tears and fractures
4 Working with machinery - causing cuts and lacerations
§ Working with hot substances or objects - causing burns
§ Working with knives - causing cuts and lacerations
J Using skids and pallets - causing sprains, strains, tears and
surface wounds
* °peratin9 Powered handtools - causing cuts and lacerations
§ Using jacks - causing sprains, strains, tears and surface wounds
10 Working with saws - causing cuts and lacerations
11 Working with food slicers - causing cuts and lacerations
1
m
m
n
m
m
§B
$
* Source: WCB Alberta
WHY YOUNG WORKERS GET
INJURED ON THE JOB
Here are some reasons that explain why young workers are at a
greater risk for injury at work.
• Lack of training and work experience
• Lack of confidence or understanding of their rights as workers
• Lack of preparation for the workplace
• Being given more dangerous jobs
• Feeling of invincibility
• Unwillingness to ask questions
• Being distracted and having other things on their mind
E1DBACK
WE’D LIKE TO HEAR FROM YOU
Xtreme Safety Date
towdk^ 10 tNS publication did V°u fl'nd useful?
How could we improve this publication? What was not useful?
Do you have any suggestions for other information or other
publications that would be of value to you?
JteaselH|ein%Ch?forSme °f °Ur °thSr Publications <»nd posters,
Name
Organization
Address
Postal Code
Phone
Fax
!
Send your comments to the address on the following page or e-mail
your catalogue request and/or comments to: info@alis.gov.ab.ca
Return this form to:
A?^6, Skl,,S and WorkP,ace Resources
12th Rno Tan^ReSOUrces and EmPloyment
Floor, South Tower Caoital n
10030-107 Street ’ P f 1 Hea,th Centre,
Edmonton, AB T5J 3E4
Fax: (780) 422-5319
Work Safe Alberta /dlbOTlCI
Introducing the newest tool for health and safety. The Work Safe Passport is a handy logbook
that teachers, trainers and employers can use to record recognized workplace health and safety
training provided to workers in Alberta.
For information about how to order Work Safe Passports call the Alberta Human Resources
and Employment Workplace Health and Safety Contact Centre at 1-866-415-8690. In Edmonton
call 415-8690.
Work Safe Alberta
Return this form to:
People, Skills and Workplace Resources
VthEn HTanJ 3UrCes and Employment
10030-107 street Sr' CaPita' Health Centre'
Edmonton, AB T5J 3E4
Fax: (780) 422-5319
Work Safe Alb
Assess the risks
and have a plan
to deal with them
Use protective
equipment and
clothing
Communicate with
your co-workers
and leaders
Know the rules
and follow them
Work Sa
Passpo
Have the proper
training
Introducing the newest tool for health and safety. The Work Safe Passport is a handy
that teachers, trainers and employers can use to record recognized workplace health
training provided to workers in Alberta.
For information about how to order Work Safe Passports call the Alberta Human Resc
and Employment Workplace Health and Safety Contact Centre at 1-866-415-8690. In E(
call 415-8690.
For more information:
1-866-415-8690
worksafely.org
alis.gov.ab.ca/careershop
Work Safe Alberta
This booklet is written for youth who are new to
the workforce. Inside you will find information on
workplace health and safety that will help you to:
□ identify safe and unsafe working conditions
□ understand the importance of workplace health
and safety orientations and training
□ learn about rights and responsibilities of
employers and workers
□ make decisions that take responsibility for your
health and safety
□ demonstrate effective communication skills in
stressful situations
□ connect with further information and resources
Work Safe Alberta A /dlberld
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