safeworknews

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Newfoundland and Labrador

Volume Three, Issue One - Spring 2012

It’s important that safety training be taught in our schools see page 6

A job is not something an individual does - it becomes part of who you are see page 14

A worker shall not work in a confined space after January 1, 2013 unless he or she has completed a confined space entry program prescribed by the Commission. see page 10

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2012

WHSCC Prevention Services Workshop Series Spring/Summer Programs that give employees the skillsets they need to do their jobs safely.

Safety Awareness Sessions June, July 2012 19 25 26 30

Marystown – Braxton Suites Wabush – Wabush Hotel Happy Valley-Goose Bay – Hotel North St. John’s – Comfort Inn

There are no workshops in August.

June

Occupational Health & Safety Program Implementation: From Shelf to Worksite 9am – 1pm

19 St. John’s – Comfort Inn 20 21 27 28

St. John’s – Comfort Inn Marystown – Braxton Suites Wabush – Wabush Hotel Happy Valley/Goose Bay – Hotel North

July

To register, call Heather Rogers at: 709-778-2926 or 1-800-563-9000, Fax: 709-778-1587 or email: [email protected]

Violence Prevention/Working Alone 9am – 1pm 4 Grand Falls-Windsor – Mount Peyton Hotel 5 Gander – Albatross Hotel 6 Clarenville – St. Jude Hotel 11 Corner Brook – Pepsi Center 12 Stephenville – Holiday Inn 17 St. John’s – Comfort Inn 18 St. John’s – Comfort Inn

Save time – use connect!

Use connect for clearance letters. It’s easy to use and saves time. Request clearance letters immediately and get notification of changes in subcontractor status.

Registration must be received no later than one week prior to the session. Sessions may be cancelled due to lack of registered participants. Notification of cancellation will be provided to registered participants one week prior to the scheduled session.

If you are already registered for connect, speak to your in-house administrator about using this service.

Go to: whscc.nl.ca and click the connect icon for more details.

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Newfoundland and Labrador

Employment Readiness Program

5

Prepped and ready

Always know your workplace rights and responsibilities

6

The 3Rs of education

Scott Crocker of Holy Spirit High School in Manuels delivers health and safety education message

8

Safer work at the office

Reducing the danger by implementing better safe work practices

10

Q

Hazards of confined spaces

17

Passport to Safety

Effective January 1, 2013, workers will be required to have completed training for work in confined spaces

Eliminating youth injuries and preventing deaths in the workplace

Promoting young worker health and safety

SAFE Work NL’s – Who Wants to Save a Life?

12

Fraser Drover wins the Commission’s SAFE Educator Award

16

19

Young champions of safety helping to save lives

Employment Readiness Program

The job search journey

safeworknews Newfoundland and Labrador

safeworknews is published three times a year by the Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission (The Commission) of Newfoundland and Labrador to educate workers and employers about injury and disease prevention, promote a positive safety culture and provide links to Commission resources for safer workplaces. Editorial Submissions and Inquiries [email protected]

Editorial Advisor Chris Flanagan Editor Kathy Dicks-Peyton Graphic Design Mark Wessels Marketing Sherry Greene Information Technology Florence Maloney

Contributors Paul Daly Jamie Eddison Karen Moore Colin Fewer Tobey Andersen Krista Murray

Canada Post Publications Mail Agreement #40063376, Customer #1324969

No portion of this publication may be reprinted in whole or in part without the written permission of the Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission. The Commission reserves the right of final approval on all material.

www.whscc.nl.ca

Printed in Canada - Copyright 2011 Printer: Transcontinental Print

safeworknews publication agreement #40063376

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Safety Share

Take action

NEW EMPLOYEES

Improve safety

For many of us, we cannot believe it is already summertime! The snow is gone and the temperatures are warm. We approach the months of June to September with a smile. Yet, we know that safety never takes the back seat, in sunshine or in a blinding winter storm. We must stay alert.

Summer and youth seem to go together. From a safe work perspective, summer jobs present a particular challenge because, by their very nature, they often result in a new work environment for young workers. From the new or returning worker’s perspective, what do they need to stay safe? A full job orientation is the first place to start and this orientation should include a work assessment and the review of safe work practices.

Every individual work assessment should involve hazard recognition. All workers have the right to know the hazards they will face in the course of their job and what is required to eliminate or mitigate those hazards. They have the right to know what training they need to do their job safely. Our province’s Occupational Health and Safety Division has introduced three new safety standards under the 2009 Occupational Health and Safety Regulations. Traffic Control and Fall Protection Standards are now in effect. In 2013 the third standard, Confined Space, will be in force. If your workers are engaged in traffic control or work at heights of greater than three metres, they must hold valid training certificates. This is the law, and it is an essential part of a workers’ right to know. Any individual working in confined space has the right to know the hazards and how to work safely. By January 1, 2013, any worker required to work in confined space must also hold a valid training certificate, however, regardless of the enforcement date, they currently have a right to know. Summer presents its own hazards, one being the sun. It can be more difficult to see during certain times of the day and while conducting certain work. The CNIB press release of May 23, 2012 provides guidance: “…few Canadians know the dangers that UV rays from the sun can pose to their eyes and their vision health. In fact, a recent CNIB study shows that half of all Canadians don’t realize they should wear sunglasses in the shade. But without protection, UV rays can damage your eyes and lead to permanent vision loss. CNIB recommends choosing sunglasses with at least 99 per cent protection from both UVA and UVB rays.” Sun exposure can also result in heat stroke and burns.

Remember that summertime completely loses its fun when someone in our community is injured or loses their life. Stay alert, spot all the hazards, including seasonal ones, assess the risk, find a safer way, everyday!

Newfoundlanders and Labradorians long for summer. Enjoy it and remember to stay safe.

Working safely is a team effort. You look out for other workers and they look out for you. Taking responsibility for others is especially important when it comes to new and young workers. You need to keep an eye on them and remind them how to work safely.

Think about your workplace from the new worker's point of view for a moment. Remember your own first day on the job. You'll see a busy place full of strange equipment, unfamiliar chemicals and complicated tasks. Everyone else seems to know what they are doing. More than anything, you just want to fit in and look like you know what you are doing. Help the new worker settle in safely by following these points: • • •

• •

• •

Show them where to obtain safety materials and necessary operational instructions.

Help them get equipped, fitted and trained with the appropriate protective clothing and equipment for the task at hand.

Show your new co-worker the labels for any chemicals you are dealing with. Help them understand how to read the labels and what Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) they should use.

Point out the location of fire extinguishers, alarm boxes and other emergency equipment.

Ensure the new worker knows what to do in case of an emergency such as a fire. Does he or she know two exits from the workplace, and where to assemble outside.

Make sure the new employee knows who to talk to about any safety concerns or questions.

If you see the new person or any worker doing something unsafe, speak up. It's not interfering; it's looking out for the other worker.

Your advice to the new co-worker is not a replacement for proper safety orientation, training and supervision. However, you can help make sure he or she picks up the information necessary to work safely. (Source: Safety Toolbox Talks)

Leslie Galway, CEO, Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission

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Your feedbac k 5-*3+# 5- 113#

**

safework,#51

Hi Kathy:

“Life is pretty much amazing these days”

As you may be aware by now, CBC reporter Curtis Rumbolt and cameraman Bruce Tilley travelled to Virginia in December to record my journey. I contacted Bob and he was delighted to hear this news. Bob is developing a reality television show for TLC, where he would like to include my story - something that gives me a great feeling of accomplishment and purpose.

In November 2011, myself, and my wife Madonna travelled to Virginia to meet Bob Barron of Custom Prosthetic Designs Inc., where I had impressions taken of my ears and my nose so I could be fitted with prosthetics. Bob told us then that he was two months behind in his work, so I was prepared to have to wait at least two to three months before I received my prosthetics.

Madonna asked him if there was any way we could have them by Christmas, and after checking his calendar Bob told us he would work diligently and have them ready for coloring by December 5. That was so generous of him. He is an amazing man in more ways than one. We connected from the moment we met and have become great friends.

We would like to hear from you...

We were all in awe of Bob’s pure genius and talent. He is a miracle worker - he gave me back my life. He didn’t just make me a prosthetic nose and ears, he healed my spirit. I felt more normal than I had since my accident happened almost six years ago.

At the airports on our way back to Newfoundland, Madonna was checking for people staring at me, and there were none. She was in disbelief because I always got stares everywhere I went. I now walk with my head held high and a bounce in my step - I am no longer a victim, I AM A SURVIVOR!!!!! What a transformation!! It’s unbelievable. Continued on page 4

Give us your insight on safeworknews content, or topics for discussion relating to employer assessments, workers’ compensation, and workplace health and safety. Send your comment to: safeworknews c/o Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission 146-148 Forest Road P.O. Box 9000 St. John’s NL A1A 3B8 or send us an email: [email protected]

WORKPLACE HEALTH, SAFETY AND COMPENSATION COMMISSION

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We

always

welcome

your

feedback

Continued from page 4

I don’t feel the anxiety, frustration and impatience that was such a big part of my personality. Madonna says that I am no longer a GRUMP, and my children are so happy for me. What my wife and children see is a new man, a happier man, a man at peace with himself. I owe my new life to Bob Barron. There are not enough words to express my gratitude.

I sent him all the pictures that Madonna took along with some of me before and during my ordeal. I gave him several copies of your safeworknews story, which is also now in the hands of a Hollywood producer. Apparently Hollywood likes my story, so who knows what lies ahead? Thank you for writing my story so beautifully. I chose to share it so others can hopefully find some healing from reading it. My entire family was touched by the story as well. I sent copies to friends in the United States and other provinces in Canada. Around Christmas I received a thick envelope in the mail from a Grade 5 Class in Hamilton, Ontario. Their teacher is an old schoolmate of mine. I sent her the magazine and she read the story to her religion class. They each wrote me a note of encouragement and thanks, along with some hand-drawn Christmas cards. Gestures like this renew your faith in human nature - there is a lot of good in this world. God bless you Kathy. - Pat Stamp

Safety and caring go hand in hand at Pennecon Energy Dear Editor:

I am a Pennecon Energy employee in St. John's and feel compelled to write you concerning the commitment to safety within our operation. We have regular safety meetings, safety policies, safety drills, safety training, safety audits and safety objectives, but sometimes the real message is lost in the routine. So how is it that we are best reminded about the importance of safety?

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WORKPLACE HEALTH, SAFETY AND COMPENSATION COMMISSION

• We could have someone with authority force it on us. • We could be penalized for not practicing our policies. • We could face the tragedy of a serious injury or death to a colleague or friend.

All of these suggestions are strong reminders to be safe in the workplace, and things that we practice each and every day. However, once in a while we hear something that really impacts our thoughts about health and safety.

During a staff function a few months back, our general manager of operations started the evening with a safety moment on ‘Drinking and Driving’, and asked that everyone not drink and drive, and take a FREE taxi home. That in itself was a great safety reminder, and certainly the company met the expectation that safety was covered and we could enjoy our evening.

After some draw prizes and presentations, the senior vice-president stood at the podium to say a few words. This speech reminded me of why I choose to work within the Pennecon family, and why I enjoy each and every day I work there. I cannot recall the exact words of the speech, but the words were spoken by a boss who truly cares about our health and safety. The message was simply this...

“I can deal with the pressures of this business, I can deal with the customer requests, I can deal with the pressures of job commitments, and I can deal with the stress of money and finances to make sure we are doing okay. However, I cannot deal with the thought of getting a phone call telling me that an employee has been hurt due to an unsafe act. I can take all the rest on my back and keep moving, but I cannot, and do not ever want to get that call. Please be safe and never feel you have to do something on the job that you are not comfortable doing.”

You could have heard a pin drop. It was a safety message that every employee in every company should have the opportunity to hear from their boss. It was better than any poster, policy or objective. It was a message from the most influential person in our company. It was honest and sincere, and I thought it was something that should be shared. - A Pennecon Employee

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Don’t be a statistic

t

Prepped and ready Every day in Newfoundland and Labrador, two young workers aged 15-24, are injured on the job. You name it and it happens. Young workers are injured by slips and falls, by overexerting themselves, by exposure to hazardous chemicals and materials, and during the operation of machinery. The good news is that these injuries can be prevented. Since 2010, on average fewer young workers are being injured in Newfoundland and Labrador. This is a tremendous accomplishment when you consider that workers who are new to worksites are at higher risk. This trend is motivating everyone, and our youth are leading us with their workplace injury and illness prevention mindset. The Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission (the Commission) is empowering workers, especially youth, to take action, to help foster a culture of safety throughout the province, where workplace accidents are unacceptable.

David was removing cookie dough from an industrial ribbon mixer when the machinery suddenly became activated. He was drawn into the mixer by the rotating blades and struck in the head. David was rushed to hospital and died of massive head injuries. Kelly had been on the job for less than three weeks when he was crushed after some logs moved on a skidder. He had apparently not been trained and was working without supervision.

t

Always know your workplace rights and responsibilities!

Kenneth was working to save money for university because he wanted to become a family doctor. He took a summer job working on a high-rise building development. One day while lining up to get down to the ground at quitting time, he climbed over a steel header to make it to a ladder, lost his footing and fell to his death.

Lorna was working at a pool and got caught against a pump suction pipe intake. She was not able to pull away and subsequently drowned.

t

Promoting occupational health and safety to youth is important for many reasons:

• Before you become active members of the workforce, you need to know about the importance of occupational health and safety;

There are thousands of tragic stories about workplace injuries involving youth stories of innocence lost, and for what? These tragedies need not have occurred.

• You need to be armed with the knowledge and skills necessary to keep you safe as well as your co-workers; • By engaging young workers in public education and awareness, we are reducing workplace injuries.

Injuries in the workplace are preventable – don’t be a statistic....

Learn your Right to Know, your Right to Participate and Right to Refuse unsafe work and don’t be afraid to exercise your rights and don’t be afraid to ask questions.

- youngworkerquilt.ca

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“It’s important that safety training be taught in our schools. My philosophy is: if you start training children and do it in a way that they can relate to, I believe it becomes engrained. Workplace Safety 3220 is not a required course for high school graduation, but I think perhaps it’s a course that should be.” Holy Spirit’s Scott Crocker

By Kathy Dicks-Peyton

Taking the

of education to a new level

Successfully running a school requires skill and experience; principals must manage the day-to-day activities for students, teachers and support staff, and provide instructional and administrative leadership. Scott Crocker, Principal of Holy Spirit High School in Manuels, believes focusing on health and safety is also of paramount importance to his role.

When Crocker arrived at the school 11 years ago, he says “there was some focus on health and safety in the province’s schools, but it didn’t have the priority it does now. It wasn’t uncommon to see things that today we would consider unsafe, such as a person standing on top of a ladder trying to fix something in the gymnasium”.

One of Crocker’s first goals at Holy Spirit High was to create an environment where health and safety became a first thought every day, so that students, staff and parents were all on the same page. “We have been quite successful in this regard with all stakeholders working together – we are dealing with issues, and finding solutions. Whether you are a staff member, student, parent or a visitor to our school, everyone deserves to have a good experience, and anything we are going to do or try to do, we are going to do it safely”, he says. When Holy Spirit High first offered Workplace Safety 3220 in 1998, it was one of the first schools in Newfoundland and Labrador to do so.

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Workplace Safety 3220 teaches the 3Rs: the Right to know, the Right to participate and the Right to refuse unsafe work. When young people enter the workforce as employers or employees, they need to know the importance of workplace safety and the effects workplace accidents and injuries can have on society. Students are exposed to real life, work-related safety issues and are offered the opportunity to be certified in a variety of safety programs such as First-Aid, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHIMIS).

“It’s important that safety training be taught in our schools,” says Crocker. “I believe that when you start training children at a young age, and do it in a way they can relate to it becomes common practice.” Workplace Safety 3220 is not a required course for high school graduation, but Crocker says, “I think perhaps it’s a course that should be.”

In 2007, Holy Spirit High was the winning school in the Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission’s (the Commission) youth radio ad contest. The winning entry was developed by students in the Workplace Safety 3220 class. For their accomplishment, the school received a large flat-screen television for their learning Resource Centre, as well as an audio/visual library of occupational health and safety materials. The winning ad aired on radio stations throughout the province.

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“When parents send their children to school in the morning, they expect us to keep them safe from harm and send them home safely in the evening.” “This was quite an accomplishment and a testament to the instruction being given by teachers,” says Crocker. Further recognition was given to the school in 2007, when Crocker became one of the inaugural signatories to the Commission’s CEO Safety Charter. “I remember when I received the call, I was very proud,” he recalls. “Anytime your school is recognized like that, it is motivating and encouraging.” Crocker says when he signed the Charter it was not only a commitment by him, but a commitment by staff, students and parents, to practice and enforce safe work procedures and safe school procedures, and to encourage others to do the same.

“When parents send their children to school in the morning, they expect us to keep them safe from harm and send them home safely in the evening,” says Crocker. Health and safety at Holy Spirit High starts on the parking lot with outside supervision by staff. “This is common practice for primary and elementary schools, but when we introduced it at our high school, it was seen as unusual,” he explains. More and more students are driving their own vehicles to school, and along with staff vehicles, there can sometimes be a lot of congestion. Having monitors in the parking lot helps make for smooth traffic flow. It also ensures there is no one on the school property that shouldn’t be there.

“A supervising presence outside prevents this, and it works,” says Crocker. Holy Spirit High is also equipped with locked doors, security cameras and an entry buzzer system. Students and staff have also been trained in ‘lockdown procedures’, which means that anytime there is a perceived threat to anyone in the building, there are protocols in place to immediately keep everyone in a secure and safe place. “Students and staff participate in lockdown drills which are treated just as seriously as fire drills.”

Another safety initiative at Holy Spirit high is the ‘Secure School’ program. Crocker provides this example: “If a student takes a seizure, we call a ‘Secure School’. This alerts students and staff to stay in their classrooms and keep hallways clear in order to protect the dignity and privacy of the person affected. If the incident happens in a classroom, students and staff are not required to leave until given clearance to return.”

Crocker says incidents at school can also occur where students may be injured – thus enforcing the importance of health and safety. He tells the story of an incident in one of the technology labs where a student using a table saw sustained a serious cut to his hand. “Our initial concern was for the student and ensuring he was okay,” Crocker recalls. “Subsequently, we did an investigation which indicated the student had been instructed in all the proper safety procedures prior to operating the saw, but he admitted to taking short cuts. This was certainly a life lesson for the student – and for the school. Fortunately, he did not lose the use of his hand.

“We have enforced the importance of health and safety so much over the years, that when students or staff see something unsafe, or know someone is in a situation that could affect their health and safety, the first thing they do is report it to the office,” says Crocker. “Accidents and injuries can be life-impacting and we have to continue to work on dispelling the myth that, ‘Ah, it can’t happen to me!” Although he’s currently on secondment to the Eastern School District board office, Crocker says he continues to ‘walk his talk’ when it comes to health and safety, and hopes the health and safety education he and the staff have provided to the students at Holy Spirit High will have a positive impact on them long after they graduate. “I’m confident we are doing a good job. I never want to be left wondering,” he says.

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THE

DANGER ZONE – The Office –

Compared to an industrial work environment, an office can seem like a safe place to work. However, many serious accidents and injuries occur on a regular basis in offices everywhere. Slips, trips and falls are one of the most common causes of workplace injuries. They can occur anywhere whether you are in the production area or in the office.

Office workers are injured by falls, fires and electric shock. They receive cuts and bruises from office tools and furniture. They develop long-term injuries from repetitive work such as keyboarding. As you go through your day, use these safe work practices. Always watch for obstructions which can cause tripping accidents. Cords and cables should not be placed across traffic areas. Even cords going to a power bar located next to a work station can cause a person to trip when getting up from a desk. Work materials should be stored in designated storage areas, not in boxes on the floor. Items such as briefcases, handbags and other personal items should be stored where no one will fall over them.

Keep drawers of desks and cabinets closed!

Load file cabinets from the bottom up. Serious accidents have occurred when top-heavy filing cabinets have fallen over. Clean up any spills, such as coffee or water, right way. If a spill cannot be taken care of immediately, arrange a barricade and a sign to warn people. Floors which are wet from cleaning should also be blocked off and marked by warning signs.

Use safe lifting techniques.

It is just as easy to receive a back injury in the office as it is in a warehouse. To pick up a heavy item, squat down beside it. Use the strength in your legs, not your back, to raise the item. Bend your knees, not your back. Become a Back Protection Agent: “nose between your toes and use your legs”. If it is too heavy, don’t lift it.

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THE

DANGER

ZONE

Continued

3 Store sharp implements such as scissors, paper knives, and letter openers separately from other items to prevent cuts and puncture wounds.

3 Be alert to electrical hazards, which can cause fires and electrocution.

Check for any frayed or damaged cords or plugs. Electrical repairs should be made only by qualified personnel.

3 Don't overload electrical circuits. Extension cords are meant to be used only

temporarily, so make sure the area is wired adequately for all of the electronic equipment such as computers, copiers and printers. Breakers which trip frequently are a sign of overloaded circuits.

3 Don't use makeshift scaffolds such as a chair balanced on a desk when you are

reaching for something overhead. Take the time to get a stepladder or stepstool.

3 When doing work such as computer keyboarding, keep your hands and wrists straight and relaxed.

3 Frequently switch to other tasks to give your hands a rest.

(Source: Safety Toolbox Talks)

Secure your future now. Setting a good example is not a "put-on". It's simply working safety into your daily routine at home and on the job. When we all work safely, everyone's job is safe and their future more secure. New employees certainly benefit by seeing operations conducted the safe way. As you all know from experience, people new on the job take a while to adjust and to discover who they are in the overall set-up of the plant. New employees who have never held a job before or were employed by a firm that had a weak safety program probably will need considerable safety instruction. Employers attempt to give it to them, but naturally, they also observe and seek advice and information from fellow workers. These early impressions of you and of safety operations will be at least partially formed through these contacts and observations. On the other hand, newcomers formerly employed by a firm that emphasized safety will probably think more of you personally if you measure up to the caliber of people they are accustomed to working with. Actions speak louder than words. When we leave our safety glasses resting on our foreheads rather than in place over our eyes, or when we kick an empty milk carton under a bench rather than pick it up, we're

selling safety but it's a useless soft sell. Our actions are saying, "I believe in wearing eye protection but not in protecting my eyes; and I know trash can cause a tripping accident, but it isn't important enough to make me pick it up." There's another angle to setting good examples. Too often people dress to impress others with their good taste rather than their knowledge of safety. Wearing rings, bracelets, and other ornaments is dangerous around machinery and in many other jobs where it's possible for jewelry to be caught by moving parts of machinery, thus cause injury to the wearer. Long sleeves, floppy pant legs, and long hair can be hazardous on some jobs, too. So we should always dress for the job. Our image as a fashion expert may suffer, but it will give way to the more important and more beneficial image of safety. Maybe some of us feel we are already setting good examples for safety, but maybe this self-image isn't too accurate. Think just for a moment isn't it strange that we always think about having the nice things happen to us and when we think about an accident, it's usually happening to someone else? All accidents are preventable. Make your personal safety a priority and you'll have a good chance of not becoming an injury/incident statistic.

Work safely today.

(Source: Safety Toolbox Talks)

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The Hazards of Confined Spaces

By Krista Murray

In 2007 in Oakville, Ontario, two men ages 33 and 52, were working in an underground vault installing fibre-optic cables.

of not having proper safety procedures and practices in place can be fatal. It is critical to recognize that no worker should ever enter a confined space

confined space fatalities – an estimated 60 per cent - occur during rescue attempts.

unless they have the training and knowledge to work safely.

In many cases the hazards are not obvious and show no warning signs. Anticipating, recognizing, evaluating and controlling hazards in confined spaces are key to saving lives. Employers have a responsibility for conducting risk assessments and developing confined space entry (CSE) plans for workers to follow.

They were about 15 feet below ground when they were overcome by toxic fumes. By the time rescue crews pulled them out, they were dead. It was this incident that led to Bell Canada being fined $280,000 – which at the time was recorded as the largest fine levied by the courts to a federallyregulated company for a health and safety violation under the Canada Labour Code. Effective January 1, 2013, workers will not be permitted to work in confined spaces in Newfoundland and Labrador unless they have completed a confined space entry certification training program approved by the Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission (the Commission). Working in a confined space is potentially one of the most dangerous of all workplace hazards. The neglect

Serious injury or death in a confined space can be the result of hazardous atmospheres, asphyxiation, engulfment, electric shock, falls, heat stress and failed rescue attempts. According to WorkSafe BC, the most shocking statistic, is that more than half of

The regulations state that employers must inform a worker who may have to work in a confined space by posting signs or providing other equally effective means of advising workers of potential hazards.

To date, the following training providers have been approved by the Workplace health, Safety and Compensation Commission Newfoundland and Labrador Construction Safety Association

Contact: Patricia O'Leary 80 Glencoe Drive Mount Pearl, NL A1N 4S9 Tel: 709-739-7000 Fax: 709-739-7001 Website: [email protected]

Rogers Enterprises Ltd. Contact: Bruce Rogers

10 Maverick Place, Octagon Business Park Paradise, NL A1L 0J1 Tel: 709-753-8002 Website: [email protected]

The Commission continues to review curriculum and trainers. Visit our website at: whscc.nl.ca/prevention/CertificationTraining.whscc

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Supervisors must provide proper written instruction and ensure workers follow CSE plans and wear the appropriate equipment when performing an entry into a confined space.

Workers, whether they are an entrant or an attendant, are required to report hazards, follow the CSE plan and use equipment in the manner they were trained.

The Commission has developed new CSE certification training standards, in consultation with industry, employers, and training providers. This standard establishes criteria for the development and delivery of

CSE certification training in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador (NL) in accordance with the province’s Occupational Health and Safety Regulations.

The objective of the standard is to ensure that end users demonstrate basic knowledge and proficiency in identifying confined spaces, the inherent hazards, recognizing the risks associated with each hazard and eliminate hazards and/or minimize risk to workers. CSE certification training providers must apply to and be approved by the Commission to deliver CSE certification training.

Any individual who has a role in CSE and is required to enter and work in confined spaces, or has the potential to enter a confined space to attend to workers, must be knowledgeable and skilled. Workers, primarily in construction, utility, oil and gas, mining, manufacturing and municipality industries, must be protected from the dangers of confined spaces. Maintenance of tools, equipment and machinery in the health care, service, transportation and fish processing industries also require the use of CSE procedures to keep workers safe while conducting maintenance operations.

Confined Space Awareness What is a confined space?

Section 511 (1) of the Newfoundland and Labrador Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, states that “an employer shall perform an assessment of the work area to determine whether it contains a confined space”. Section 511 (2) defines a confined space as an enclosed or partially enclosed space that: (a) (b) (c)

is not designed or intended for human occupancy except for the purpose of performing work; has restricted means of access or egress; and

may become hazardous to a person entering it as a result of

(i) its design, construction, location or atmosphere, (ii) the materials or substances in it, or (iii) any other conditions relating to it.

Examples of confined spaces •

Silos, tanks and vats

•

Manholes

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

Boilers

Tunnels and culverts Cold storage

Attics, cellars and crawl spaces Vaults

Ship holds Salt sheds Wells

Trenches or open ditches

Underground storage tanks Electrical rooms

Pumping stations Storage bins

For further information on the Confined Space Entry Certification Training Standards go to: http://www.whscc.nl.ca/prevention/prevention.whscc

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Demonstrated commitment

Promoting and advancing young worker health and safety Every teacher in every classroom focuses on health and safety to some degree. Certain courses lend themselves more than others to focus on health and safety due to the nature of the curriculum being taught and/or the equipment being used. However, Fraser Drover, vice-principal at Menihek High School in Labrador City takes the health and safety message a step further, and for this reason is the recipient of the Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission’s (the Commission) first ever Safe Work Educator Award. The award is presented to an educator who has demonstrated a commitment to the promotion and advancement of young worker health and safety. Drover, who has been an educator for some 25 years, is a strong supporter of health and safety initiatives aimed at youth. This support ranges from his advocacy to include courses and programs at Menihek High that promote health and safety; to going above and beyond to ensure his students are afforded the opportunity to participate in initiatives that enhance their knowledge and understanding of health and safety issues. As a school administrator, Drover influences teachers and students with his support for courses such as, Career Development 2201, Skilled Trades, Nutrition 2102, and the Youth Apprenticeship Program. All of these courses are offered by Menihek High and contain elements of health and safety that allow students to build a foundation of knowledge that can be transferred into their daily and working lives. “I believe it is important to incorporate health and safety across the entire curriculum,” he says. “Menihek is the only high school in town, and we are in a unique position to reach all students between the ages of 13 to 18 with health and safety messages” says Drover. “I tell students that their parents or caregivers send them to us in one piece and they want them back the same way, so they should make decisions that keep themselves and their friends safe.”

Fraser Drover, vice-principal, Menihek High School, Labrador City

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To spread the health and safety message to his students, Drover also utilizes the expertise of guest speakers as well as employers and other organizational leaders. He supports the participation of Menihek High at Skills Canada Workplace Safety competitions, and was one of the province’s first teacher sponsors for the Commission’s youth game show SAFE Work NL’s – Who Wants to Save a Life? “Living in a mining town, our students are keenly aware that health and safety is promoted heavily by the companies, contractors and suppliers to these operations,” says Drover. “So, it is no surprise that students who represent our school at health and safety competitions such as Skills Canada are well versed in the importance of health and safety. The youth game show experience added to the interest of the students and definitely increased their knowledge.” Drover has also worked diligently to overcome geographical barriers for students participating in health and safety initiatives. Obstacles, such as travel expenses and substitute teacher policies have the potential to cause other teachers/ administrators to opt not to participate. Drover has always made the extra effort to find solutions to ensure his students are able to utilize as many opportunities as possible.

Do you know

someone who

could be our next

Safe Work Educator Award recipient?

Nominate them today!! For more information, visit: whscc.nl.ca

His support of health and safety initiatives is a testament to his belief in the importance of raising awareness amongst the province’s youth about health and safety. However, this support does not come without challenges. Competing for the time and attention of students can be difficult. “Youth have busy schedules involving school studies, as well as extra-curricular activities, but I always make the effort to ensure that health and safety education remains a priority for them.” The Safe Work Educator Award includes a commemorative plaque, $500 and the presentation of health and safety equipment for the winning educator’s school. Drover donated his cash prize towards the purchase of First-Aid kits for his school. "It's all about raising awareness of workplace health and safety, talking about it and being free to talk about it," says Drover. "Sometimes young people entering the workforce don't know their rights, they don't know the regulations, they don't know whether they should speak up or not, and as an educator I feel obligated to inform them.”

Criteria

• Teacher or administrator who has demonstrated a commitment to creating a culture of health and safety for Newfoundland and Labrador youth.

• Promotes and enhances the experience of Workplace Safety 3220, Career Development 2201 or Skilled Trades courses. • Additional participation and advocacy of health and safety for youth through the utilization of external speakers, employers, and other organizations and individuals with health and safety expertise.

• Co-operation in partnering with the Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission health and safety initiatives, such as the youth game show, video/radio contest, youth health and safety presentations, etc.

• Goes above and beyond to support the overall message of health and safety for Newfoundland and Labrador youth.

Nomination Process

• Nominations for this award will be accepted from the Department of Education, school districts, peers, students and Commission staff.

Deadline for nominations is: September 28, 2012

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Q

Employment Readiness Program THE JOB SEARCH JOURNEY

What next? This is a question many injured workers ask when they are about to re-enter the world of work. Becoming a job-seeker creates many new situations that take workers away from the comfort zone they once knew and understood,” says Karen Moore, Labour Market Re-entry Co-ordinator with the Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission (the Commission). “Workers have to market their skills in a new area, and also often deal with new functional limitations.” All participants of the Commission’s Labour Market Re-Entry process have the option of participating in Employment Readiness Services which provides valuable employment preparation to assist them in finding future employment. Workers obtain assistance with developing resumes and cover letters, job search techniques, locating potential employers, self-marketing and researching the labour market. They can also get help with interview skills. “We have highly-trained professionals in the area of vocational rehabilitation and career counselling who are available to support workers in reaching their goals,” says Moore. Employment Readiness is a service that has historically been underutilized by injured workers in this province. In 2011, only 13 per cent of all injured workers who participated in the Commission’s Labour Market Re-Entry program also used Employment Readiness services. “Such low participation could be because the benefits of gaining assistance with securing employment may not always be apparent,” explains Moore. “As an individual who has worked privately providing these services, I can attest to the significant benefits individuals have experienced by taking advantage of Employment Readiness.

“For example, through the process of resume preparation, workers often gain an awareness of skills that they did not know previously existed – an experience that is eye-opening. Statements such as “… But I have only been a fish plant worker! I have no other skills”, are very common, explains Moore. The skills that are involved in specific fields of work or positions are not one-dimensional – there is often more than meets the eye. The fish plant worker may also possess many organizational skills from tallying and reporting product counts at the end of the day. The cook may have fine-tuned communication skills from working as a member of a team and ordering kitchen supplies. Vocational consultants at the Commission can help workers recognize skills that can be transferred to new positions. The Commission is hoping to significantly increase the number of workers who use Employment Readiness Services. A new brochure outlining the program and its benefits is now available to all workers who participate in the Labour Market Re-entry process. The benefits of being prepared for a job search cannot be underestimated. The positive tangible effects of a successful job search are apparent – a steady income and eventual financial security. Other benefits such as confidence, an increase in self-esteem and identity are often not as visible but just as important. A job is just not something an individual does – it becomes part of who you are. With help from professionals who have seen many workers experience success, finding the right job will happen again.

For more information on Labour Market Re-entry and Employment Readiness services call:

709-778-6982

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By Tobey Anderson When looking for a job, do you ever wonder, “What makes me stand apart from other students or youth in Newfoundland and Labrador? What unique qualifications do I have to offer?” Many youth in this province have the education, skills and experiences that make for fierce job competition. Finding a skill-set and knowledge-base that make you distinct can be challenging – Passport to Safety can help. Before I tell you all about Passport to Safety let me tell you a little bit about myself. As a student, I have been working in various part-time jobs since I was 15, so I know about job competition. I am enrolled at Mount Saint Vincent University in Halifax, where I am completing a Bachelor of Public Relations. Through this program I have the opportunity to gain professional job experiences through the work-term component, which is why I am currently working for the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador as a Communications Intern and Social Media Co-ordinator for the Office of Youth Engagement. I absolutely love everything about it. One initiative of the Office of Youth Engagement is to increase the awareness of occupational health and safety. As a result, Passport to Safety was created to help eliminate needless injuries and preventable deaths in the workplace and support the vision that youth have the power to influence the evolution of safe workplace cultures. Passport to Safety is an online, no-fail test that will increase the knowledge of workplace safety for youth in our province.

There are two tests you can complete: • Passport to Safety 101 • Passport to Safety – For Teens I chose to complete Passport to Safety 101 and was very pleased with the outcome. As a third-year university student who is continuously working in various part-time jobs and workterms, this test helped refresh my knowledge of workplace safety, and provided me with valuable tips for me to perform my jobs in the safest manner possible. Passport to Safety is a valuable educational resource for youth and students joining the workforce. It will provide a unique aspect to your resume when applying for jobs and is an indication to employers that you are prepared to learn about safe workplace procedures and training. You will also have a basic knowledge of workplace safety that can help prevent injuries on the job. Completing Passport to Safety is beneficial for all youth, especially students looking for employment, and will help them learn the basics of workplace safety. Once you have completed the online test, a printable certificate and personalized transcript is presented to you. This is a great addition to your resume and may give you the edge you need to get the job you want. You can complete your own Passport to Safety test online at: passporttosafety.com/NL. It is available for all youth in Newfoundland and Labrador. There is no deadline, it’s, you can complete the test whenever you like, so take advantage and complete it now. Gain valuable knowledge of safe workplace procedures…give yourself an edge in job competitions…make your resume stand out… complete Passport to Safety.

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Champions of safety...

2012 SAFE Work NL’s – Who Wants to Save a Life?

By Colin Fewer

We’re looking for the next SAFE Work NL’s – Who Wants to Save a Life? champions, and getting your school involved for the 2012/2013 school year is the first step towards winning thousands of dollars in scholarships and prizes!

SAFE Work NL’s - Who Wants to Save a Life? was launched in 2008 at the senior high school level, and has reached over 10,000 students with occupational health and safety message.

Drawing on the success of television game shows such as: Who Wants to be a Millionaire? and Jeopardy, the competition was modeled after a similar concept developed by the Industrial Accident Prevention Association (IAPA) in Ontario. The Newfoundland and Labrador version was designed and developed by the Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission (the Commission), of Education. The show is hosted by professional actor Rory Lambert and produced by Ric Barela, whose technical credits include CBC’s Land and Sea.

This initiative has opened doors to many more opportunities for occupational health and safety promotion to all workers

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and employers. SAFE Work NL’s - Who Wants to Save a Life? has been the highlight at numerous conferences and events, and the Commission continues to receive invitations to showcase this unique brand of entertainment and instruction across the province and country. Outside the game show’s mandate to reach youth, SAFE Work NL’s – Who Wants to Save a Life? has also been played at St. John’s Ambulance, firefighter and police conferences and the Newfoundland and Labrador Construction Safety Association conference. The game was also been featured at the 2010 Canadian Society of Safety Engineering conference in Halifax, Nova Scotia. During the 2011/12 school year, some 35 junior and senior high schools and post-secondary institutions participated in the game show experience.

“Game show participants in every setting have gained invaluable information to help them understand their rights and responsibilities for ensuring a safe workplace,” says Leslie Galway, the Commission’s Chief Executive Officer. “Utilizing a platform for education that engages the learner and challenges them, while providing an opportunity for entertainment, increases the likelihood that both participants and observers will value and retain what they have learned.”

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2011/2012 Winning Teams

Junior High...

St. James Regional High, Port aux Basques

Discovery Collegiate, Bonavista

Post-secondary.

Senior High...

College of the North Atlantic, St. John’s Campus

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NewsFlash

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Become a Back Protection Agent! “It’s the only back you’ve got”

The Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission (the Commission) is inviting every worker and employer in the province to become Back Protection Agents and help prevent back injuries in the workplace.

A new marketing and advertising campaign aimed at preventing back injuries features print, radio and television ads, reminding viewers to keep backs healthy. Employers and workers should ensure workstations are set up properly, using proper lifting techniques, avoiding lifting heavy objects and using tools for lifting when appropriate, such as lifts, carts or dollies. Anyone can become a Back Protection Agent by helping ensure these safe practices are followed in the workplace, or simply by asking for help if a lift or other task seems likely to overstrain the back. “More than 1,000 people experienced lost-time from work because of back injuries in 2011,” said Commission Chief Executive Officer Leslie Galway. “The exciting thing is that back injuries can be prevented in many ways. Learning safe work techniques focused at protecting your back is key. Our campaign is aimed at showing how several of our province's workers have developed effective back protection practices.”

Back injuries account for more than 25% of all lost time injuries in the workplace in Newfoundland and Labrador. Overexertion, particularly of the back, is the most common type of workplace accident. Neil Hiscock, a Fire Equipment Technician with the St. John’s Regional Fire Department is a Back Protection Agent who took the initiative to ensure the safety of himself and his co-workers. He’s also featured in the

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Neil Hiscock, Fire Equipment Technician with the St. John’s Regional Fire Department print advertising component of the Commission’s Back Protection campaign. He spoke to safeworknews about keeping backs safe: 1.

Why are you proud to be called a Back Protection Agent?

I am proud to be called a back protection agent because I take great pleasure in knowing that I may have helped in preventing possible back injuries for myself and my co-workers. 2.

What have you done or suggested at your workplace that is assisting in back protection?

Back protection is a very serious concern, and if not done properly can cause serious injury with long-term implications. The workplace needs to take back protection seriously and provide employees with as much information as possible to avoid any injuries.

From past experience, I feel that researching any heavy lifting task is very beneficial, and necessary to alleviate any foreseeable injuries. As a Fire Equipment Technician

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I have taken part in annual fire equipment testing such as hose, ladders and breathing apparatus, to name a few. The ladder testing, by far, has been the most strenuous. I have participated in the testing of ladders the old way. By the old way, I mean lifting 50-pound sand bags, totalling 1,000 pounds per ladder. I knew there had to be a better way. So I did some research to find a more efficient and ergonomic way of doing the same test in less time and with less strain on the body. Research helped me source the ladder testing equipment, now being used by the St. John’s Regional Fire Department. This equipment has not only prevented injury to my back, but has led me to be more interested in performing the task. This equipment also helps us to be more productive and get more done in a shorter amount of time. 3.

Employers also need to listen to their workers, because they are the ones who are doing the work. "Remember you get one chance and one back, so take care of it, it's the only back you’ve got".

What advice do you have for other employers and workers so they too can become back protection agents?

The advice that I have for other employers and workers is that you need to research ways to perform tasks in an easier and safer way.

Steps for Life Walk

Every year on the first Sunday in May, people all across Canada come together with corporate leaders to draw attention to the importance of injury prevention in a fun and positive environment. The Steps for Life Walk is a wonderful way to remember and celebrate the lives of family members,

friends and co-workers who have been seriously injured or who died as a result of workplace tragedies. This year’s walk in the St. John’s region saw over 200 participants raising $23,653.

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Safety awareness and knowledge begins with training

When you hear the word ‘safety’ – what comes to mind? Is it a word that applies to everything you do? Effective safety, whether at home at work or play, begins with being aware of potential hazards and knowing how to control them. Awareness and knowledge begin with training.

Last year, six people died in Newfoundland and Labrador as a result of workplace accidents. Another 27 succumbed to occupational disease. That’s 32 individuals who left behind families and friends, who shake their heads wondering how these tragedies could have been prevented.

In the workplace, training plays an important role in occupational health and safety and employers must ensure on a day-to-day basis that workers are aware of health and safety responsibilities for themselves, their co-workers, and clients visiting their premises.

Occupational health and safety impacts every worker in every workplace, no matter how long they have been employed. It is therefore important to engage in ongoing training for seasoned staff, and ensure new hires embrace the importance of building an effective safety culture. Effective health and safety training can reduce workplace injuries and deaths, property damage, legal liability, illnesses, workers’ compensation claims and missed time from work. Bottomline - if something looks unsafe, it probably is. Employers who do not provide health and safety training may be putting their workers at risk of injury or even death.

Kathy Dicks-Peyton is the Manager of Communications and Event Planning with the Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission

Kathy Dicks-Peyton, Editor

Give us your insight on safeworknews content, or topics for discussion relating to employer assessments, workers’ compensation, and workplace health and safety. Send your comments to:

Save time – use connect! Use connect to submit your form 7 – employer’s report of injury.

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safeworknews c/o Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission 146-148 Forest Road or send us an email: P.O. Box 9000 [email protected] St. John’s NL A1A 3B8

Your report will be received by the Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission the same day and help in the timely adjudication of your claim.

If you are already registered for connect, speak to your in-house administrator to access this service. For more information go: to whscc.nl.ca

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A GENT Mike Joyce A GENT SINCE e help bathe th to mp ra a Using animals H E ROIC TALE ea . . . Doggone good id th ing h is back by ba ts ec ot pr ke Mi ra mp, equipped with a “Fido” in a tub rg e need to lift la e th g in at in elim w worker s to Mike trains ne dogs. ial es from potent lv se em th t ec prot ke! ry. Go get ‘em Mi back pain or inju