In B.C., new workplace safety regulations have officially taken effect, marking a shift in how we approach health and safety standards in various industries, particularly in construction.
These updates represent more than just a compliance requirement; they highlight the increasing need for robust health and safety protocols that adapt to the evolving nature of work. For construction companies, which often operate in active and high-risk environments, these changes are significant.
As of November 1, 2024, the amendments to WorkSafeBC’s Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Regulations are now in place, bringing new workplace first aid regulations aimed at improving safety, which directly impact the requirements for construction businesses. These updates emphasize the importance of being prepared for emergencies and ensuring a safe working environment, which is especially critical on construction sites where hazards are present.
How These Changes Impact the Construction Sector
These updates are not just regulatory; they provide organizations, especially in the construction sector, with an opportunity to enhance employee safety and morale. By investing in health and safety, construction companies can improve productivity. Proper training and preparedness can lead to fewer accidents on-site, which in turn improves project timelines and reduces costs associated with workplace injuries.
This is especially important, as talks about boosting home construction in B.C. continue to gain momentum. Plus, construction sites face more extreme weather events, like atmospheric rivers and heat domes, which can affect the health and safety of workers.
One of the key changes in WorkSafeBC’s regulations mandates that all employers conduct a new written first aid assessment for each job site. This measure helps identify the first aid resources needed for the specific risks at each workplace, including construction sites. For example, this could involve assessing the risks related to heavy machinery operation, working at heights, or exposure to hazardous materials. For the first time, employees must be included in drafting these first aid assessments, so that workers can have input into what first aid equipment and protocols should be implemented to keep them safe.
Employers are also required to hold annual first aid drills to ensure staff are familiar with emergency response procedures and the location of essential equipment. In construction, where quick response times are vital, this requirement will ensure that all employees know how to act in case of an accident, potentially saving lives.
The updated regulations have also introduced a new category for “less accessible workplaces,” which will require additional first aid support. This is particularly relevant for construction sites with areas only accessible by ladders, scaffolding or temporary work platforms. It will also affect sites doing excavations, working underground, or have confined spaces on site. If your site fits this category, you will likely need more first aid attendants, and they will likely need a Transportation Endorsement in addition to their first aid certificate.
Furthermore, based on the new requirements, jobsites located within 20 minutes of an ambulance may now need Advanced First Aid attendants instead of the previously required Level 2 OFA attendants. This change will impact construction businesses that operate in urban areas, as they may need to reassess their first aid training to comply with the new requirements.
First aid courses in B.C. have also been revised to align with the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) standards. OFA Level 1 is now called Basic First Aid, OFA Level 2 is now called Intermediate First Aid, and OFA Level 3 is now called Advanced First Aid. The only significant change in the curriculum is to Intermediate First Aid, which has been shortened from a five-day course to a two-day course. The length of the Basic First Aid (one-day) and Advanced First Aid (10-days) remains the same as before.
Changes to first aid kit requirements may require construction companies to purchase new kits or update existing ones to meet the revised contents. These kits must be tailored to the specific risks present on construction sites, such as having the right supplies for treating cuts, burns, or other common injuries in the industry.
Tools to Move Forward
As we adapt to these changes, it is essential for construction companies to view them as an opportunity to strengthen workplace safety. The new rules remind us that keeping the workplace safe is an ongoing effort that needs attention and proactive steps.
For businesses working to implement these changes, Fundamental First Aid has created a Minimum First Aid Requirement Calculator to decipher the correct first aid level based on the number of employees and distance to the nearest ambulance. This tool is especially useful for construction companies with varying site conditions and employee counts.
Creating Safer Conditions
Ultimately, these changes are part of a broader effort to align B.C.’s workplace safety standards with national norms, addressing the unique challenges faced by construction employers operating across provincial borders. By staying informed and taking necessary steps, organizations can create safer workplaces that prioritize the well-being of every employee, leading to a stronger, more resilient workforce.
Blake Steinson is founder and president of Fundamental First Aid Ltd. If you need assistance with first aid training or supplies, Fundamental First Aid is a trusted partner for all first aid needs. With our expertise, we can help construction companies navigate these changes effectively, ensuring compliance and enhancing safety on the job site.
