With one month until employers are to comply with the new requirements under the OHSA titled Occupational Health and Safety Awareness and Training Regulation (O. Reg. 297/13) few, especially small businesses, are aware of the legislation leaving many not meeting their new obligations. The regulation can be downloaded at:
www.e-laws.gov.on.ca/html/source/regs/english/2013/elaws_src_regs_r13297_e.htm
The Ministry of Labour has created a number of resources available to employers including free options for training. Visit their website for information at:
http://www.labour.gov.on.ca/english/hs/pubs/worker_awareness.php
To comply with the new training regulation, employers may choose from in-house, out-sourced instructor-led and online training at various price points. If workers and supervisors have taken courses previously that cover the required content in the regulation and the employer can verify the results, exemptions may apply.
For many employers who are experiencing a busy time of year, scheduling the training as soon as is reasonably possible will be an important factor in the event of a MOL inspection. Always, ensure records are retained and managed.