Teeswater News – Online! » Employment, In The News, Seasonal » Workplace Safety

Workplace Safety

Jun
25
2010

By Emily Grubb
Youth Services Officer
Service Canada Centre for Youth

The day started just like any other day. Candace1 went to work at the paper mill to earn money for school. She tried to take a short cut over a conveyor belt – supervisors and co-workers did it all the time. She fell and her foot got caught in the conveyor system. There was no emergency button close by – the only reason Candace is alive today is because a co-worker was able to stop the conveyor belt.

Candace’s leg was damaged almost beyond repair and had to be amputated below the knee. She may have walked into work that morning, but it was the last day she would ever walk on her own two legs.

It is usually inexperience which places young workers at an increased risk of injury, illness and death. A lack of knowledge means young workers often don’t know how to protect themselves.

Whether you are a young worker starting your first job or an experienced employee, you should always be aware of your rights and responsibilities regarding workplace health and safety issues.

The Occupational Health and Safety Act gives you three fundamental rights: the right to know the hazards of your job, the right to participate and the right to refuse unsafe work.

All workers are entitled to a safe and healthy workplace. You can ensure your work experience is safe and enjoyable by learning about your rights and fulfilling your responsibilities.

For more information on workplace safety, visit The Walkerton SCCY, located at 200 McNab Street, open Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. You can reach the centre by phone at (519) 881-2305, by fax at (519) 881-0377or by e-mail at emily.grubb@servicecanada.gc.ca.

For information on the Government of Canada summer work experience programs, call 1 800 O-Canada (TTY: 1-800-926-9105) or visit servicecanada.ca/sccy.

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