by Leanne E. Standryk
Section 25(2)(i) of the Ontario’s Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) requires that all provincially-regulated employers post a copy of the OHSA and “any explanatory material” prepared by the Ministry, both in English and the majority language of the workplace, outlining the rights, responsibilities and duties of workers no later than October 1, 2012.
On June 1, 2012, the Ministry of Labour (Ministry) released a new health and safety awareness poster. The poster briefly outlines the OHSA’s functions and summarizes the rights, responsibilities and obligations of workers, employers and supervisors under the Act.
The information poster is a response to findings of the Expert Advisory Panel on Occupational Health and Safety (Panel) appointed by the Ministry in March 2010 to engage in a comprehensive review of the province’s health and safety regime. The Panel concluded that several employees are unfamiliar with the OHSA and their rights and duties with respect to health and safety in the workplace.
The posting deadline is effective October 1, 2012, to give employers adequate time for compliance. Failure to post may result in an order from an inspector, provincial prosecution and a fine upon conviction.
The Ministry also requires that the posting once printed must be at least 8.5 x 11 inches in size. Printing may be in colour or in black and white. The foregoing is provided to you for information purposes only. We caution you to obtain legal advice specific to your situation in all circumstances.