BC's Construction Health & Safety Association

New course, new MSI video resources and survey results from the BCCSA Construction Health and Safety Conference

New Hazardous Materials Awareness training course launched

The BCCSA recently launched its new self-paced Hazardous Materials Awareness e-learning course. The course covers the hazards and health effects associated with 11 frequently-encountered hazardous materials and outlines recommended practices for removal, control and disposal. The course is free for those employed in the fire and flood restoration industry.

Stretches for Construction Workers: new video series now available

The BCCSA recently released a series of 10 YouTube videos, Stretches for Construction Workers, designed to prevent musculoskeletal injuries (MSIs). From shoulder warm-ups to upper back stretches, these short videos take a little more than a minute each to watch. By following a series of simple instructions, workers can avoid weeks of recovery from an MSI.

BCCSA Construction Health and Safety Conference survey results

We thanks the large number of attendees (almost one in four) who chose to respond to our survey following the 2024 BC Construction Health and Safety Conference held last month. The results were encouraging:

The majority of respondents rated the conference Excellent (41.38%), Very Good (43.1%) and Good (13.79%).
On a scale of 1 to 10, respondents awarded all speakers an average rating of 8.37.
On a scale of 1 to 10, respondents rated the trade show an average of 8.4.

Thanks to everyone who attended and shared their responses — and don’t forget to claim your five points for Continuing Professional Development.

Recovery Informed Workplaces in Kelowna wraps up series

The BCCSA hosted the last of a series of four free events on the subject of Recovery Informed Workplaces in Kelowna on November 6^th. The event featured Dr. Paul Farnan of the University of British Columbia and Simon Fraser University, and Ian Robb, Chairman, Building Trades of Alberta, on the importance of workplace support in addressing mental health, addiction, and dependency challenges. The event saw attendance of 35 people and sparked some great discussions.

In this issue...

Regional Safety Advisor Tanya Steele helps employers unpack the roles and responsibilities of a Joint Health and Safety Committee and Designated Worker Representative.

Until next year.

As always, we welcome your feedback!

BCCSA is excited to announce the launch of our new First Aid Assessment App – designed specifically to support construction employers in BC!

Every workplace in BC needs a written first aid assessment, and our app simplifies the process.

Use it to:

✅ Determine and document the necessary first aid equipment, supplies, and facilities

✅ Tailor your first aid needs based on your workplace's unique requirements

✅ Stay compliant with OHS regulations.

Don’t miss out on this essential tool for safety and compliance – check it out today!

Learn More

🔍 For more info, consult G3.16 of the OHS Guidelines!

“Joint Health and Safety Committee” or “Designated Worker Representative” — which one does your company need?

Do I need to establish a Joint Health and Safety Committee (JHSC) or appoint a designated worker representative? It’s one of the most common questions that BCCSA regional safety advisors (RSAs) are asked by employers.

Read full story