Hot Tip -- by Gina Hindle

Employees may think that on-the-job safety rules aren't glamorous, exciting or interesting, but the consequences of not knowing the rules and unsafe working can be hazardous to your life and limb(s) as well as other body parts.

In order to be aware of the safety rules, here is a list of 10 questions Alberta Labour suggests new employees ask their employer:

1. What are the dangers of this job?
2. Are there any other hazards (noise, chemicals, radiation) that I should know about?
3. Will I receive safety training? When?
4. Is there any safety gear I'll be expected to wear? Will I receive training in how to use it? When?
5. Will I be trained in emergency procedures (fire, chemical spill)? When?
6. Where are fire extinguishers, first aid kits and other emergency equipment located?
7. What are my health and safety responsibilities?
8. Who do I ask if I have a health or safety question?
9. Do you have safety meetings?
10. What do I do if I get hurt? Who is the first aid person?*

* From Alberta Labour WorkPlace Health and Safety

(Remember it is always best to ask first before tackling a possibly unsafe job!)

Employee Responsibilities

The Occupational Health and Safety Act stipulates that employees have a right to a safe and healthy work place but they also have responsibilities as well. These include cooperating with the employer by following safe practices on the work site, making sure they are trained and have appropriate skills to do the work and know how to keep the work place safe.

Employer Responsibilities

Employers have the responsibility of providing employees with the information needed to do their job in a safe manner. Employers must keep equipment safe and in good repair. Dangerous chemicals must be labelled and stored properly. Employers must establish safe work procedures and ensure workers are properly trained.

Danger at the work site

Talk to your employer if you are asked to do something unsafe to you or other workers. If your employer does not listen, take the matter up with the worksite safety committee. If there is no safety committee or if you are not satisfied with the response, contact Alberta Labour, Occupational Health and Safety (in Calgary call 403-297-2222; in Edmonton call 780-422-5704).

If there is imminent danger at your work site (ie. danger which is not normally part of your job or danger under which you normally do not work) either for you or another worker; you must refuse to do it and tell your employer why you believe there is danger. Your employer must inquire into your complaint and report what was found and what action was taken. If, however, your employer does not agree that there is a safety concern or take action, you can contact the Occupational Health and Safety Council and they will review the situation.

You cannot be fired or disciplined for refusing to do unsafe work. If you are, contact Alberta Labour and an officer will look into your situation.*

*The Occupational Health and Safety Act: A Worker's Guide The Occupational Health and Safety Act: An Employer's Guide

For more information checkout the following web sites:

Alberta Workers' Health Centre

Alberta Workplace Health and Safety