Did you know…
…an Occupational Health & Safety (OHS) Officer can do a workplace inspection of your property at any time?
…OHS is focusing on hotels and convention centres for their Proactive Inspection Program in 2021?
Why does OHS inspect workplaces?
Each year, OHS proactively inspects workplaces to monitor compliance with legislation. They work with employers and workers to:
- prevent work-related injuries, illnesses, and fatalities,
- proactively address health & safety concerns, and
- encourage workplaces to promote the Internal Responsibility System (IRS).
Which health & safety areas is OHS focusing on during inspections?
Alberta Labour has identified three occupational health and safety (OHS) areas that need to be improved in Alberta:
- musculoskeletal disorders due to repetitive use, overexertion, and heavy lifting;
- slips, trips and falls; and
- psychosocial hazards (i.e. workplace violence, harassment, and mental health).
After an inspection, what might OHS ask me to change at my property?
Typical orders issued within service sectors include:
- hazard assessments
- Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) training
- safety training
- violence and harassment in the workplace training
How can my property be prepared for a surprise inspection?
In 2020, the AHLA launched the AHLA Safe Accommodation Promise (ASAP) to help hotels & convention centres assure staff and guests that their health & safety is a priority. Since ASAP is based on current provincial health guidelines and safety standards, it also helps properties better prepare for inspections. Any property in Alberta can apply for the designation at no cost.
Read what two hoteliers had to say about ASAP:
When Alberta Health Services (AHS) did a site tour of our property, we explained what we were doing for ASAP. They said things looked good. The ASAP program was bang on with AHS’ guidelines and procedures.
– Corey Campbell, Director of Sales, Four Points by Sheraton Edmonton Gateway
When the AHLA Safe Accommodation Promise launched, it was a simple and clear path to ensure we went above and beyond to keep our team and guests safe. The AHLA made the program easy to follow and provided prompt support towards ensuring quick compliance. Shortly after we received our designation, we also had an OHS inspection for our COVID-19 policies, which we passed with flying colours. The inspector was so impressed, she even felt we had surpassed health requirements and praised our commitment to everyone’s health and well-being. We proudly display our designation in email signatures and at our front desk, and many guests have complimented us on our designation.
–Tyson Ghostkeeper, Regional Director of Operations, Mouallem Group