Health & Safety Year in Review

This has been a horrific year for the local Union members and officers with the two Mill explosions and the untimely deaths of other members as a result of accidents or sickness. As we move forward in 2013 our hope is that the lessons learned from all that has transpired will result in a more safe and healthy workplace for everyone. New rules and regulations and training will be implemented in the coming months through Worksafe BC the Industry and your Union. More focused training for our health and safety committee members will ensure our operations meet or exceed the requirements for a safe and healthy workplace and prevent another disaster from happening. Next year will be challenging for our committees but we will be working closely with all parties to make sure they have the information and training needed to fulfill their roles and responsibilities while on the job site. We will also continue posting updated information on our website as it becomes available and any changes or notices from Worksafe BC, which will help our members on the job to be aware and observant towards issues of concern in the workplace. This year the Safety Health Awareness Research Program (SHARP) will have their Health and Safety conference in Prince George, more details will be provided in the New Year regarding dates time and agenda. We thank our health and safety committees and shift safety representatives for all their efforts over the past year and wish everyone a safe and Healthy 2013.

Brian O’Rourke
Health & Safety Director & Financial Secretary