Bill 160 – an amendment to the Occupational Health and Safety Act in Ontario has passed second reading on March 29, 2011. Be prepared to address these changes in the coming weeks. The Ontario Government has clearly indicated that this is just the first step in a more comprehensive overhaul of Ontario's occupational and health and safety system.

These amendments will impact small to large employers through the changes put forth in this bill as outlined below:
• Transfer responsibility for prevention from the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) to the Minister of Labour. This will strengthen and align the enforcement responsibilities of the Ministry of Labour (MoL)
• Increased mandatory training requirements for employers.
• The Minister of Labour will now establish standards for training programs and approve programs that meet those standards.
• A newer, more extensive training program is proposed for enterprises with 20 employees or more.
• Employers with 6-19 employees who must appoint a Health & Safety Representative will now be required to provide mandatory training.
• The changes will require revisions of existing health and safety policies or new policies.
• Changes to the responsibilities of the Employer Advisor and Employee Advisor of the Ministry of Labour

In conjunction with Bill 160, businesses should be aware of the changes to WSIB. The Ministry of Labour has identified that they will be responsible for Workwell Audits as part of the transfer of responsibilities.

WSIB LMR – Labour Market Reintegration Programs have changed and integration of the revised LMR will be integrated with the Return to Work Program for a NEW Work Reintegration Program later this year.

As outlined by WSIB the following are elements of the revised program:
• Maintain the relationship between the worker and the original employer.
• Provide direct oversight by WSIB for all re-training services for injured workers.
• Increase worker input and choice in their vocational goals.
• Make greater use of Ontario’s public education system for injured worker re-training.
• Provide workers with marketable skills and valid credentials.

These are just a few of the upcoming changes that you need to prepare for. In preparation, complete a thorough Workwell Audit, a complete Facility Risk & Hazard Assessment, Health and Safety Systems and Policy review as well as review of your Health and Safety Maintenance Programs; identify the gaps and make the necessary changes.

Lynne Bard
President/Senior Consultant
lbard@beyondrewards.ca
Beyond Rewards Inc
www.beyondrewards.ca