The very mention of asbestos often strikes fear into us, but workplace diseases and fatalities associated with asbestos exposure are preventable. The instances that continue to present themselves typically do so because of poor worker protection programs in the past, and the long latency period of asbestos-related diseases (20-40 years). Today, there are many preventative measures employers and workers can take to ensure an asbestos-free work environment.

Do you, or have you, worked in one of these industries?

If so, it is important to be aware and understand how you can protect yourself and others. Ask your employer these two important questions before engaging in work that may expose you or your co-workers to asbestos:

Remember, asbestos does have the potential to harm workers, but with proper handling procedures, training, PPE, and some safety and care, instances are preventable.

For additional information, refer to the Asbestos Abatement Code of Practice on our website.

The WSCC recently released a new Code of Practice on Return to Work programs, which came into effect on September 30. The code outlines the legislative obligations in the Return to Work process, and with the Employer's Guide to Return to Work, provides guidance on how to develop a program that promotes a worker's recovery.

On September 30, the Office of the Regulator of Oil and Gas Operations signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the WSCC. The MOU establishes a basis for cooperation in safety-related areas including staff training, coordinating inspections, and responding to incidents. Under this memorandum, both parties agree to participate in the sharing of technical expertise, regulatory information, and best practices, as well as coordinate efforts in engaging the public in maintaining awareness of safety requirements for activities and work relating to oil and gas.

To read the MOU, click here.

Once again, the WSCC is participating in the two-day Power Up! Youth Conference hosted by Skills Canada NWT for Grade 8 students in Yellowknife. Power Up! offers students an opportunity to learn about some of the exciting career options available to them, and in turn provides the WSCC with an opportunity to inform the next generation of workers and employers of their workplace safety rights and responsibilities. The WSCC workshops will highlight the importance of awareness, safety, and prevention, and will give students a chance to explore a potential career as a Safety Officer.

The 2015 Power Up! Youth Conference this year will be held from November 12-13. Visit the Skills Canada NWT website for more information about the organization and the programs it offers.

Mark your calendars: the 43rd Annual Yellowknife Geoscience Forum takes place over three days from November 24-26 at the Ed Jeske Arena in Yellowknife. A joint initiative of the NWT & Nunavut Chamber of Mines, and the GNWT's Department of Industry, Tourism, and Investment, this annual conference is the largest mining and petroleum conference and trade show in the Northwest Territories. We hope to see you there!

The Governance Council reviewed and approved the following policies at its September 2015 meeting:

The WSCC, along with our partners at the NTFL, NSA, and Arctic Response Canada, offer courses on workplace safety and awareness. Stay informed about upcoming courses by visiting the links below.

 

Northern Safety Association - see a full list of programs and courses here.

 

Northern Territories Federation of Labour - view upcoming courses here.

 

Arctic Response Canada Ltd. - explore the training programs offered here.

 

For additional approved providers of Occupational Health and Safety Education, click here.

Remembrance Day - November 11, 2015

(Northwest Territories and Nunavut offices closed)

 

To report a serious workplace injury, incident, or fatality, call the 24-hour Incident Reporting Line at 1-800-661-0792.