Service NL
June 3, 2015

The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Dan Crummell, Minister of Service NL:

Minister Emphasizes Occupational Health and Safety During the 2015 Construction Season

Mr. Speaker, I rise in this Honourable House to emphasize the importance of promoting occupational health and safety particularly as construction activity and other seasonal work increases during the summer months. Preventing accidents and illness in workplaces throughout the province is part of the mandate of Service NL, and we remain dedicated to working with employers to promote the well-being of workers year-round.

Mr. Speaker, I remind my Honourable colleagues that only a few weeks ago we celebrated North American Occupational Health and Safety Week, with the theme being “Make Safety a Habit - For Your Career.” This is an important message to be remembered throughout the year, but especially at a time when many new construction workers are entering the workplace to start their careers. It is important that all employers give site specific safety orientation to all new employees. Safety orientation and ongoing safety coaching are critical components for preventing injuries in workplaces.

Mr. Speaker, in 2014, the number of workplace injuries resulting in lost-time compensation claims remained, for the third consecutive year, at the lowest level ever recorded in our province. This speaks to what can be achieved through collaboration between employers, union representatives, and the Provincial Government. Nevertheless, 11 workers died last year as a result of workplace accidents, and another 18 died from occupational disease. These statistics underline the need to be vigilant and consistent in promoting a strong safety culture in every workplace.

To promote this, Service NL’s occupational health and safety division completes inspections in all workplaces throughout NL. The inspection process not only assesses the level of compliance, but also helps employers understand their legislated responsibilities. Staff of the division are also available to answer questions at any time to help stakeholders better understand their responsibilities under the legislation. This complements other efforts by our government to improve safety for workers at construction sites, such as amendments to the Highway Traffic Act to improve the safety of road construction crews. Our government doubled the fine for speeding in construction zones to safeguard workers on the job.

Mr. Speaker, maintaining safety in the workplace is everyone’s responsibility. As construction activity ramps up over the coming months, I encourage everyone to remember their respective roles and responsibilities, and work together to make sure workers come home safe at the end of each day.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

2015 06 03                              2:30 p.m.