This edition of the Prevention Manual reflects the following updates.

OHS Compliance Agreements Policy (D12-186.1-1)

At its June 2015 meeting, WorkSafeBC's Board of Directors approved a new policy on Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Compliance Agreements (D12-186.1-1). This policy came into effect on September 15, 2015 and will apply on an interim basis until it is replaced by a final policy on January 1, 2016. Stakeholders were able to provide feedback on the interim policy discussion paper until October 23, 2015.

Instead of issuing an order, WorkSafeBC may, in certain circumstances, enter into a compliance agreement in which an employer voluntarily agrees to correct OHS violations and report back to WorkSafeBC by a certain date.

Compliance agreements are offered at WorkSafeBC's discretion, within the limits of the Act and policy. WorkSafeBC will only enter into a compliance agreement if WorkSafeBC believes that the employer will likely fulfill its obligations under the agreement.

Housekeeping Change to Policy D12-196-7 (OHS Penalties and Claims Cost Levies – Effect of Application for Stay at Review Division)

A housekeeping change was made to reflect that, effective September 15, 2015, a request for review of a WorkSafeBC decision or order on an occupational health and safety or claims cost levy matter must be submitted to the Review Division within 45 days of the date the decision or order was made. 

A reference to 90 days in the Background of the policy was changed to 45 days.

See below for the updated Prevention Manual, along with replacement pages for updating the manual.