Introduction to Workplace Safety

A set of flashcards focused on key terms and concepts related to Workplace Safety and Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) as discussed in the Week 1 lecture notes.

Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S)

A field focused on the health, safety, and welfare of people engaged in work or employment.

Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA)

The main safety statute in Ontario that provides the legal framework for workplace safety.

Worker Rights

Rights established under OHSA, including right to know, right to participate, and right to refuse unsafe work.

Internal Responsibility System (IRS)

A system promoting shared responsibility among workplace stakeholders for improving OH&S.

Joint Health and Safety Committees (JHSC)

Groups formed to address workplace safety issues through collaboration between management and workers.

Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS)

A standardized communication system for hazardous workplace materials in Canada.

Global Harmonization System (GHS)

An international approach to hazard communication that standardizes labeling and safety data sheets.

Hazard Recognition

The ability to identify potential sources of harm in the workplace.

Right to Know

The worker's entitlement to be informed about hazards associated with their work.

Right to Participate

The right of workers to take part in health and safety discussions and decisions.

Right to Refuse

The right allowing workers to refuse work they believe is unsafe without fear of punishment.

Safety Statute

A law or regulation established to ensure safety in workplaces.

Core Concepts of OH&S

Key ideas that form the foundation of health and safety practices in workplaces.

Workers' Compensation

A form of insurance providing wage replacement and medical benefits to workers injured in their jobs.

Health and Safety Legislation

Laws governing the health and safety responsibilities of employers and rights of employees.

Moral Imperatives of OH&S

Ethical responsibilities related to ensuring workplace safety and protecting employees.

Economic Imperatives of OH&S

Financial reasons for implementing safety measures, including cost of injuries and productivity losses.

Legal Imperatives of OH&S

Legal requirements and duties imposed upon employers and organizations to ensure safety.

Induction Training

Training given to new employees regarding workplace safety and policies.

Occupational Injury

An injury sustained by a worker as a direct result of workplace conditions.

Occupational Illness

A disease or condition that arises from occupational exposure to risk factors.

Hazard Control Methods

Strategies and practices to eliminate or reduce workplace hazards.

Governance of OH&S

The framework and structures in place to oversee and enforce health and safety regulations.

Historical Development of OH&S

The evolution of health and safety practices and legislation over time.

Stakeholders in OH&S

Various parties involved in workplace health and safety, including management, workers, and government.

Safety Audits

Systematic evaluations of safety practices and procedures in the workplace.

Compliance Monitoring

Regular checks to ensure adherence to health and safety regulations.