Amendments to Part 31, Firefighting, now in effect
As of October 1, 2026, amendments to Part 31, Firefighting, of the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation are in effect.
These amendments align the Regulation with the definitions of "worker" and "firefighter" in the Workers Compensation Act and clarify how health and safety requirements apply to society fire brigades and volunteer firefighters. They also introduce the term “fire personnel” for workers who perform fire-related duties — such as maintenance, training, and inspection — but do not meet the Act’s definition of "firefighter."
The changes help ensure that volunteer firefighters receive the same workplace health and safety protections as other workers in B.C. and provide greater clarity about employer responsibilities.
For more information, visit the Society fire brigades and volunteer firefighters webpage.