Ergonomic Alert from OPC Inc. Regarding Ticketing Powers in Ontario
May 1st, 2006

The O­ntario Government has already moved o­n its plan to cut workplace injuries including musculoskeletal Injuries by 20% by 2008. This is being realized by expanding the powers of the provincial health and safety inspectors to issue tickets for unsafe workplace practices. This includes industrial, healthcare and administrative office sectors.

The tickets are being issued under the Provincial Offences Act and carry set fines; including court costs, of $200 or $300 for every offence the Inspector finds while in the workplace. These tickets will also be issued for "ergonomic offences".

In addition to these "tickets" the Inspectors will also issue Orders to employers with an emphasis in the area of ergonomics. This may include written orders (which must be rectified usually within a 30 day time period) regarding the lack of a formal ergonomic program; lack of ergonomic design in equipment, tools, furniture. These orders will be based o­n the Canadian Standards Association Office Standards as well as the numerous other non-published ergonomic guidelines the Ministry refers to.

If orders are issued the M of L will return to the workplace after the 30 day time period to re-inspect the workplace to ensure full compliance with all written orders. If the Inspector finds a workplace to not be in compliance the Ministry will move forward with financial penalties levied directly against the company. As well the Ministry will communicate this information to the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board who may then follow up with a Workwell Audit in the workplace.