Author Archives: Susan

Photo of cleaning staff reaching as they disinfect elevator to avoid contagion

The risk of musculoskeletal injury (MSI) may increase at workplaces where processes have changed because of COVID-19 safety protocols.  During the past few months we’ve seen many changes in how people carry out their jobs. Physical distancing, protective barriers, increased cleaning measures, and other safety solutions may lead to workers moving differently. Workers at fast […]

Photo of man wearing PFD walking up ramp on a dock

The International Media Festival for Prevention has announced their shortlist of 50 safety films and media projects.  I recently enjoyed watching a variety of fascinating workplace health and safety messages from across Canada and around the world. They were part of the International Media Festival for Prevention (IMFP), which showcases multimedia productions about safety and […]

Photo of a snowplow plowing snow on the road in winter

Snowplow drivers work long hours — and often overnight — to keep us safe by clearing our roads and highways. They deserve our thanks and appreciation!  While we may not see snow often in Metro Vancouver, much of the rest of the province sees snow regularly, and we should be prepared for ice and snow […]

Photo of dentist in protective workwear checking teeth of girl with dental mirror and carver during COVID-19 pandemic

Dentists have been using enhanced hygiene protocols since the 1980s, so they have processes in place that are helpful during the current pandemic.  Dentists are well experienced in infection control. Recently, I spoke with Dr. Alastair Nicoll, chair of the B.C. Dental Association’s Back to Work Task Force, about how this expertise helps dentists to […]

Photo of person wearing face mask to protect against COVID-19 and about to climb ladder to put up winter holiday lights

Along with COVID-19 health and safety measures, remember to keep safety in mind for the usual seasonal activities like climbing ladders and driving in winter conditions.  Follow ladder safety when putting up decorations Putting up holiday lights is one tradition we can still enjoy while staying close to home. This year, I notice many people […]

Photo of owner of bakery shop, wearing a mask to comply with health order requirement against COVID-19. .

Employers get answers to their questions about how provincial health orders affect business operations.  On December 14, Dr. Bonnie Henry, B.C.’s provincial health officer, updated the public health order. The update affects all employers, and some of the recent requirements include: Employers must ensure that every worker performs a daily health check before entering the […]

Photo of WorkSafeBC prevention officer

WorkSafeBC is increasing workplace inspections to review COVID-19 safety plans.  During a recent COVID-19 update on CBC radio, I heard B.C.’s Health Minister Adrian Dix thank WorkSafeBC for supporting public health orders. WorkSafeBC has visited thousands of workplaces since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic to support employers with their health and safety planning, and […]

Photo of waiter serving coffee to group of friends while everyone one is wearing protective face mask due to COVID-19 epidemic.

One restaurant owner explains how barriers and a clear anti-harassment strategy are two ways to support workers — and they make good business sense too.  The B.C. Provincial Health Officer recently issued an order requiring all employers to review their COVID-19 safety plans, and ensure that appropriate protocols are in place to protect workers from […]

Photo of crew member working on TV set and wearing non medical face mask.

Workers in the motion picture and TV industry share their experiences about COVID-19 safety solutions on set.  As I write this post, the motion picture and TV industry has been up and running again for just over two months, after a six-month shut down due to COVID-19. Since the restart, I’ve heard a lot of […]

Photo of two people wearing life jackets on a boat

Good communication is an important part of safety for fishing crews, especially when people of different generations are working together on boats.  Effective communication is key to working safely in any industry. But communicating effectively can be a challenge when different generations of people work together. (Read more in my post Talking safety with different […]