Occupational Health and Safety: Stay Ahead of the Flurry of Legal Changes

Description:

The Ontario government has made several important changes to the OHSA in recent months. We will discuss the impact of these changes on Ontario employers in 2025 and beyond. We will also discuss the latest developments in the Courts and touch on the WSIB’s Winter 2025 premium refund.

• The new proposed $500,000 minimum fine for employers with multiple serious convictions in a two-year period. What is a serious injury? Will Courts go higher than $500,000? Is the legislation likely to become law? Is it even Constitutional?
• The application of the OHSA to telework performed in or about a private residence. What does this mean for employers? How does “due diligence” apply to telework?
• The amendments to the definitions of “workplace harassment” and “workplace sexual harassment” to include virtual activities. Is this anything new? How should employers respond?
• The proposed provision would require employers to ensure that personal protective clothing and equipment provided, worn, or used properly fit. How will that be determined?
• The proposed provision allows the Chief Prevention Officer to establish policies regarding general training requirements established under the OHSA. The CPO will have the power to adopt external codes and standards.
• The latest on the ongoing Greater Sudbury owner-employer due diligence case.
• A discussion about the WSIB’s Q1 2025 rebate program. Who qualifies? What do we know about how the rebate is calculated? Can an ineligible employer appeal?

WE HOPE YOU’LL JOIN US!