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WorkSafeBC sponsors Project Heavy Metal Rocks
Richmond B.C., May 5, 2005—The Workers' Compensation Board of British Columbia (WCB) has partnered with the Prince George Construction Association (PGCA), and School District #57, Prince George, to give 28 grade eleven and twelve students the opportunity to become familiar with the heavy construction industry in a three day, hands-on experience through Project Heavy Metal Rocks, May 5, 6, and 7.
The Inland Concrete Pit site*, on North Nechako Road in Prince George is where students will work with the heavy equipment most often used in the construction industry. "Many of our construction contractors require heavy equipment operators and workers in related job categories," says Helene Rohn, Career Projects Supervisor, PGCA. "The goal of this project is to provide a heavy-duty equipment job experience and career awareness opportunity for students who may want to persue this line of work."
The WCB will conduct a safety training session and provide personal protection equipment including a hard hat, hi-viz vest, gloves, first aid kit, and a participant safety manual to each student. In the three days the participants will visit local heavy equipment shops and worksites, be given an opportunity to try out various types of heavy equipment, and be given an overview of the construction industry by industry representatives who will also relay the important role that safety plays in their industry.
"It's important that students get exposed to the health and safety message at the start of their work experience as young workers — particularly young male workers — are at much greater risk of injury than any other workers in B.C.," says Bruce Clarke, Regional WCB Prevention Manager in Prince George. "Community groups took the lead in this project and help us get the safety message out. Not only will students gain first-hand on-the-job experience, but all who participate in this project will have a heightened level of understanding about safety in this or any other industry."
The Workers' Compensation Board of British Columbia is an independent
provincial statutory agency governed by a Board of Directors that serves
nearly two million workers and 179,000 employers. The WCB was born out
of a compromise between B.C.'s workers and employers in 1917 where workers
gave up the right to sue their employers and fellow workers for injuries
on the job in return for a no-fault insurance program fully paid for by
employers. The WCB is committed to safe and healthy workplaces and to
providing return-to-work rehabilitation and legislated compensation benefits
to workers injured as a result of their employment.
*For media access to this site on Saturday, May 7, 2005 please contact Helene Rohn.
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For more information please contact: |
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| Gladys Johnsen Public Affairs Manager Prevention Division, WCB 604 214-5441 or toll-free in B.C. 1 888 621-7233, local 5441 Or cell 604 908-0876 |
Helene Rohn Career Projects Supervisor Prince George Construction Association 250 614-1729 |