OPSEU presents brief to panel on workplace safety

Appointed by Ontario government following the deaths of four construction workers on Christmas Eve.

Toronto (2 July 2010) - Following the deaths of four construction workers on Christmas Eve, Labour Minister Peter Fonseca announced a review of the province’s occupational health and safety system.

In March, the government appointed Tony Dean, a former secretary of the cabinet who has also served as deputy minister of labour, as chair of an advisory panel of safety experts from labour groups, employers and academic institutions to recommend options for structural, operational and policy improvements to workplace safety.

Seven working groups were established to gather information and report to the panel on specific issues such as system structure, the internal responsibility system, vulnerable/precarious workers, the underground economy, supply chains and incentives, technology and innovation and training.

The Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU/NUPGE) expressed concern that no front-line experts on enforcing the Occupational Health and Safety Act - ministry of labour inspectors - were on the panel or working groups.

Despite this, OPSEU and occupational health and safety inspectors have contributed their insight and expertise to the important issues the panel is considering. A presentation from the union was made during public consultations. Discussions on health and safety enforcement also took place.

OPSEU and the members it represents in the ministry of labour were pleased to present written submissions to the panel.

NUPGE

The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) is one of Canada's largest labour organizations with over 340,000 members. Our mission is to improve the lives of working families and to build a stronger Canada by ensuring our common wealth is used for the common good. NUPGE

More information:
OPSEU submission to Expert Panel on Occupational Health and Safety - pdf