Vancouver Island University must establish and maintain a Health and Safety Program, as required by the Workers Compensation Act of BC. A Health and Safety Program is a compilation of many different programs required under the Workers Compensation Act and Regulations. Health and Safety Services is the department responsible for the oversight and management of this program at VIU.
The following Health and Safety program elements are required by WorkSafeBC.
- Health and Safety Policy
- Hazard Identification
- Hazard Control Plans
- Employee Orientation
- Safety Training
- Health and Safety Committees
- Reporting Incidents
- Investigating Incidents
Vancouver Island University has adopted a safety management system (SMS) framework based on ISO 45001. The SMS framework is crucial for improving our safety culture and provides a structured approach to identifying, assessing, and controlling hazards, leading to a safer working and learning environment and fostering a culture where safety is prioritized.
Here's a more detailed explanation in the sections below:
- The SMS framework provides a systematic way to manage safety, moving beyond reactive measures to proactive identification and prevention of hazards.
- It establishes clear policies, procedures, guidelines and responsibilities for all aspects of safety, ensuring consistency and accountability.
- This structured approach helps VIU identify and assess potential hazards, implement appropriate control measures, and continuously monitor and review their effectiveness over time.
- By following an SMS, VIU is better able to understand and manage risks, leading to a reduction in accidents and injuries.
- The framework encourages the development of risk assessments by managers with their workers, which help identify potential hazards and their associated risks, allowing for targeted preventative measures.
- This proactive approach reduces the likelihood of incidents and minimizes the potential for harm to our employees.
- A well-implemented SMS demonstrates a commitment to safety, which can significantly impact employee attitudes and behaviors.
- When employees see that safety is a priority to our senior leaders and managers, and that their concerns are taken seriously, they are more likely to participate in safety initiatives and report potential hazards.
- This leads to a more engaged and proactive workforce, where everyone feels responsible for maintaining a safe working environment.
- A strong safety culture, fostered by an SMS, contributes to a more positive and supportive work environment.
- Employees who feel safe and valued are more likely to be engaged, productive, and loyal to the organization.
- This can lead to improved morale, reduced absenteeism, and increased retention rates.
- An SMS helps VIU comply with relevant health and safety regulations and legal requirements.
- By establishing clear processes for identifying and addressing compliance obligations, the framework helps VIU avoid penalties and legal consequences.
- This also enhances the organization's reputation and demonstrates a commitment to ethical and responsible business practices.
- The SMS framework encourages ongoing evaluation and improvement of safety performance institutionally and at the department level.
- By regularly reviewing and updating the SMS, VIU can identify areas for improvement and implement changes to enhance safety.
- This continuous improvement cycle ensures that VIU's safety management system remains effective and relevant over time.