Quick Links
Customer Centres
Archived announcements
WorkSafeBC 2011 enforcement report
On February 28, 2012, WorkSafeBC released its 2011 enforcement report.
RoadSafetyAtWork.ca provides tools to improve safety for B.C.’s working drivers
WorkSafeBC has launched a new safe-driving website, in partnership with the BCAA Road Safety Foundation. The new site is aimed at employers whose workers are required to drive in the course of their work.
“Stay On Top” Roofing Workshop on March 28
Roofers, supervisors, estimators, inspectors, and suppliers can benefit from this workshop on steep-slope roofing, hosted by WorkSafeBC and partners.
Change of hours — Teleclaim Contact Centre
We’re extending our hours to serve you better. Beginning January 16, 2012, our Teleclaim Contact Centre will be open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday to Friday.
At its October 2011 meeting, WorkSafeBC’s Board of Directors approved amendments to the Occupation Health and Safety Regulation.
At their meeting in September 2011, WorkSafeBC’s Board of Directors approved the release of the 2012 proposed amendments to the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation.
Release of proposed amendments to Ch. 10 of the Rehabilitation Services and Claims Manual, Volume II
The Policy and Research Division has developed a discussion paper and draft revisions to the policies in Chapter 10 for the consideration of stakeholders by January 27, 2012. January 20, 2012 Update: consultation period extended to February 10, 2012.
Mental Health Network Educational Sessions
WorkSafeBC-contracted mental health providers are invited to attend a one-day educational seminar covering psychological and neuropsychological assessment, and mental health treatment.
The cold war is back
Keep winter under surveillance. Don't know? Don't go.
WorkSafeBC and the Winter Driving Safety Alliance are reminding people they need to drive differently in winter conditions than they do at other times of the year. Find out more ...
WorkSafeBC announces flat average premium rate for 2012
The rates continue to be among the lowest in Canada, and are the lowest rates in B.C. for the last 30 years.
Decision on the New or Revised Occupational Exposure Limits for 2011
At the July 2011 meeting, the Board of Directors provided their decision on the 2011 occupational exposure limits.
Housekeeping Changes to Occupational Health and Safety Policies Effective October 14, 2011
The Senior Vice President, Corporate Affairs, recently approved housekeeping changes to the occupational health and safety policies contained in WorkSafeBC’s Prevention Manual.
Counterattack campaign runs throughout December
For the holiday season, ICBC asks everyone to share the responsibility of being a designated driver. Enhanced police road checks throughout B.C. will also help keep our roads safe.
WorkSafeBC releases mushroom farm investigation report
WorkSafeBC is releasing a report on its investigation into the workplace incident in which three workers died and two others were seriously injured at a mushroom composting facility in Langley, B.C., on September 5, 2008.
B.C. organizations recognized for excellence in workplace health and safety
NAOSH Week and Canadian Society of Safety Engineering Achievement Recognition award winners acknowledged at Safety Forum and Awards ceremony.
WorkSafeBC launches its Apprenticeship Portal
The new portal is an online tool aimed at getting health and safety resources into the hands of apprentices and those working in the trades.
WorkSafeBC, The Community Against Preventable Injuries, and five construction companies have joined forces to remind construction workers and employers to think about their safety at work, with the use of unique safety messages.
The Policy and Research Division has prepared a draft of the 2012 – 2014 work plan, for stakeholder review and comment by Nov. 10, 2011.
Commutation of Loss of Earnings Periodic Payments
At the May 26 meeting, the Board of Directors approved amendments to Policy item #45.20, Criteria for Allowing or Disallowing a Commutation, of the Rehabilitation Services and Claims Manual, Volume I that was in effect prior to October 1, 2002.
WorkSafeBC’s Board of Directors has approved amendments to Part 4 of the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation, regarding a third option to protect workers assigned to work alone in late night retail premises.
Proposed revisions to Review Division Practices and Procedures
The Review Division is seeking stakeholder input on proposed amendments to its Practices and Procedures to create a more user friendly and transparent manual.
Bridging the Gap Construction Safety Conference, Nov. 17-19
Individuals employed in construction are invited to “bridge the gap” in their knowledge of health and safety issues related to this high-risk industry.
BC Municipal Occupational Health & Safety Conference - Nov. 6 - 8
For the first time in over 10 years, the British Columbia Municipal Safety Association will be holding their health and safety conference in Vancouver. The conference will feature over 30 guest speakers, and more than 25 educational sessions.
Vision Loss and Eye Safety Workshops Oct. 26 (Vancouver) and Oct. 27 (Victoria)
The Canadian National Institute for the Blind and its B.C. partners are holding an eye-opening workshop about the importance of protecting your eyesight at work, home, and play.
October is Occupational Ergonomics Month
Further your understanding of ergonomic and human factors as they relate to worker health and safety. Enter the WorkSafeBC ergonomic Innovations contest by Oct. 31 for your chance to win an iPod touch.
Human Factors Workshop – Oct. 27
“Human Factors Approach to Safety and Incident Investigations” is a one-day workshop designed to explore how the workplace system influences performance and how to design a system that follows the hierarchy of safety.
Fitness to Dive Course for Physicians Oct. 19 & 20, Richmond
This course is open to physicians licensed in Canada and designed for physicians who are currently providing or who wish to provide medical examinations for occupational divers.
Kirby Morgan Helmet and Band Mask Service Technician Course, Oct. 22 & 23, Richmond
WorkSafeBC will be hosting Aqua-Lung Canada as they run a two-day manufacturer-certified Kirby Morgan Helmet and Band Mask Service Technician Course.
WorkSafe Magazine – September/October
In this issue: Educating immigrant workers; stepladder safety for small businesses; overview of the penalty process; and more.
Consultation on OHS Injunction Discussion Paper and Proposed New Policy
The Board of Directors, at their May 2011 meeting, approved the release for consultation of a discussion paper and proposed new policy on OHS Injunctions. June 10, 2011 Update: consultation period extended to September 16, 2011.
Snow Avalanche Assessment Requirements – Enforcement Suspended during Review
Section 4.1.1 of the OHS Regulation provides requirements related to the safety of workers at risk from snow avalanches. Issues relating to the implementation of this section are now under review. For details, please see Guideline 4.1.1 Snow avalanche assessment.
Reducing the risks of distracted driving — September campaign
WorkSafeBC is working with ICBC, the province, and the police to reduce the risks of distracted driving
Vision Loss and Eye Safety Workshops Sept. 26 (Victoria) and Sept. 27 (Vancouver)
The Canadian National Institute for the Blind and its B.C. partners are holding an eye-opening workshop about the importance of protecting your eyesight at work, home, and play.
6th annual Vancouver Island Safety Conference, Oct. 1, Nanaimo
This year’s conference addresses how woodlands and wood products manufacturing operations can improve their business success by reducing health and safety risks.
Choose your designated driver before the first round
On average, 126 lives are lost each year in B.C. in crashes involving impaired driving. Visit ICBC’s CounterAttack campaign page to learn more about how you can get home safely this summer.
Become a Raise Your Hand Champion - Contest closes Sept. 30
The 2011 Raise Your Hand Campaign gives young workers a chance to play an online game and enter a contest for a chance to win an Xbox Kinect Prize Package (includes a big-screen TV and a $300 gift card).
Wanted: safety superheroes - nominations close Sept. 12
Do you know a person or organization that leads by example through their dedication to the pursuit of safety excellence? The Lieutenant Governor’s Awards for Public Safety honour individuals and organizations that make our communities and workplaces safer. Visit Safety Authority for more information or to download a nomination form.
Rock 101 contest: Keep Bro Jake safe on the jobsite
Visit the Rock 101 contest page to spot the safety hazards in the construction site photo. By entering the contest you could win a limited-edition Rock 101 hard hat or the grand prize: lunch for you and your crew.
Every day thousands of workers in British Columbia work in the “Cone Zone,” potentially high-risk environments in close proximity to traffic.
Resources on safe handling of asbestos
To learn about precautions to take when handling asbestos during construction, renovation, or demolition, please see the hazardous materials section of our website.
Focus On Tomorrow request for proposals 2011
WorkSafeBC offers research grants under its Focus On Tomorrow program, in two categories: Research At Work and Innovation at Work. Please note that certain application rules have changed from last year.
ICBC high risk driving campaign
Driving is one of the most complex things we do. Although some of our rushed driving behaviours may seem harmless, they increase our risk of being in a crash. Find out how prepared you are. Take ICBC’s online practice knowledge test.
Decision on the 2010 ACGIH TLVs as BC OELs
At the March 2011 meeting, the Board of Directors provided their decision on the 2010 occupational exposure limits.
Feedback requested on proposed new or revised 2011 occupational exposure limits
WorkSafeBC is requesting stakeholder feedback on proposed new or revised 2011 occupational exposure limits.
The Board of Directors approved public hearings to be held in May and June 2011 to consider proposed amendments to the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation. Updated April 12.
Regular postal service resumes
WorkSafeBC has resumed normal operations, and would like to remind workers and providers that delays in payments caused by future postal service disruptions can be avoided by using an electronic funds transfer service, called DirectDeposit.
Vision Loss and Eye Safety Workshops July 12 (Cranbrook) & July 13 (Castlegar)
The Canadian National Institute for the Blind is holding an eye-opening workshop about the importance of protecting your eyesight at work, home, and play.
Extension to deadline for Construction ER Program consultation
Due to the number of requests for additional information about the Construction Industry Experience Rating (“ER”) Program consultation, the deadline for responses has been extended to May 30, 2011.
Manufacturing Safety Forums June 15 & 22, 2011, Langley, BC
Manufacturing employers, safety professionals, and safety committee members are invited to learn, share, and network at one of these two, half day forums hosted by the FIOSA / MIOSA Safety Alliance of BC and WorkSafeBC.
Rock 101 contest: I’m the bro’, but you’re the pro!
Visit the Rock 101 contest page to learn how you could star in a radio commercial with Bro Jake, and for a chance to win a weekend trip for two at the Tulalip Resort.
Four B.C. high schools win student safety video contest
High school students from around the province have won awards in the 6th annual WorkSafeBC student safety video contest.
WorkSafeBC releases 2010 Annual Report
The provincial injury rate and claim volumes decreased in 2010, while revenues were higher than expected. More information about WorkSafeBC's key performance measures and its success in meeting those measures can be found in the 2010 annual report.
7th Annual Health Care Professional Conference
Registration for the highly anticipated Health Care Professional Conference is now open. Early bird rate ends on May 10.
Canada Line penalties varied in crane operator fatality
The Review Division of WorkSafeBC has varied penalties imposed in 2009 against two firms involved in the construction of the Canada Line rapid transit route.
2011 Western Conference on Safety
Western Canada’s largest occupational health and safety conference returns this April, featuring several keynote speakers, sessions on the latest information, and a tradeshow.
Reduce musculoskeletal hazards in your workplace
Download this free plain-language guide: Reducing MSD hazards in the workplace: A guide to successful participatory ergonomics programs.
Staying safe on B.C.’s resource roads
British Columbia’s vast network of resource roads can be considered among the most hazardous workplaces in the province. They also present a number of unique safety challenges. With the assistance of the forestry, petroleum and mining industries, WorkSafeBC has produced a video series to help workers stay safe. Find out more ...
At its October 2010 meeting, WorkSafeBC’s Board of Directors approved amendments to the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation
6th Annual Okanagan Safety Committee Conference
Registration is now open for the Pacific Safety Center’s Okanagan Safety Committee Conference. Guest speakers will discuss practical solutions safety committee members can use to effectively address today’s challenges.
Day of Mourning ceremonies will be held across B.C. on April 28, with more than 75,000 workers and employers at over 600 worksites wearing decals in recognition. Tributes to fallen workers can also be made through an online memorial at www.dayofmourning.bc.ca.
Heavy Metal Rocks comes to Kamloops
Twenty-six high-school students from School District No. 73 begin working outdoors with heavy machinery on Thursday, March 31, as part of the annual Heavy Metal Rocks program.
Heavy Metal Rocks Comes to Williams Lake
The annual Heavy Metal Rocks program has come to Williams Lake for the first time. Sponsored by local industry and WorkSafeBC, the program — which began on April 14 — is designed to provide experience working with heavy machinery to senior high-school students considering career options.
First Annual Okanagan Championship Forklift Rally
Forklift operators from across the Okanagan are invited to compete in the region’s first forklift skills and safety competition on May 1. Winners will compete at the B.C. Championship Forklift Rally. This event has been cancelled.
WorkSafeBC enters Boston College Film Festival competition
We need your help to spread the message of young workers’ safety by voting for our video entry in the third annual film festival organized by the Boston College Centre for Corporate Citizenship.
"Win a Day with Josh" contest winner chosen!
In partnership with the Canadian Paralympic Committee, WorkSafeBC is giving one lucky winner and guest an opportunity to ski with Paralympic silver medallist Josh Dueck in his hometown of Vernon. See who won.
WorkSafeBC enters Boston College Film Festival competition
We need your help to spread the message of young workers’ safety by voting for our video entry in the third annual film festival organized by the Boston College Centre for Corporate Citizenship.
Reminder: Crane Operator Certification Deadline is February 28
All operators of mobile cranes, tower cranes, self-erect cranes, and boom trucks must have a valid operator's certificate by February 28, 2011. For more information please consult the BC Association for Crane Safety.
Assessing and implementing home modifications for the injured worker
On February 25, 2011, WorkSafeBC’s Health Care Services department will host a seminar for occupational therapists on how to assess and implement home modifications for the injured worker. For more information and to register, view the online registration form.
WorkSafeBC provides a holistic approach to severely injured workers
WorkSafeBC has enhanced its Special Care Services team to provide more holistic services to severely injured workers, due to an increased understanding of the complexities of living with a serious injury.
Release for consultation of the 2011 proposed amendments to the OHSR, and discussion paper relating to Late Night Retail Safety Procedures and Requirements (research review now included)
At the September 2010, meeting the Board of Directors approved the release of the 2011 proposed amendments to the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation, and a discussion paper with a third option in the Late Night Retail Safety Procedures and Requirements.