Happy New Year! It is hard to believe that 2022 is already here! Because there was a legislation
change in December, there are not any new updates on OHS from Alberta Labour for January.
Though the previous updates summarized some of these changes, here is a link to a YouTube
video put out by Alberta Labour that summarizes the changes.
Feel free to reach out to your Kasa representative if you would like assistance in ensuring your
program meets the new requirements.
With the new year comes setting new organizational goals. What are some of the safety goals
for your company? Examples could include:
• Reduction of injuries – target zero
• Increase training initiatives – provide more safety training to employees
• Increase hazard reporting – increased hazard reporting is linked to decreased incidents,
as employees are on alert for hazardous acts and conditions
Develop your safety goals and communicate them to your workforce. Safety is everyone’s
responsibility, and when everyone is aware of the goals, everyone can work toward achieving
them.
For this month, here are some safety moments to consider and discuss in safety meetings:
1. Remember to inspect your eyewash fluid. There is a misnomer that eyewash remains in
good condition for use as long as the bottle is sealed. This is false. Eyewash fluid
expires typically in 2-3 years if it remains unopened, and the date can be found on the
bottom of the bottle. Once opened, eyewash station is good for 6 months, and one bottle
is good for one use. Have a look at all your portable eyewash bottles. Have they
expired? Have they been used? Are they covered in dirt and dust that could possibly get
in your eye when you have to use the fluid?
2. Fatigue management. In addition to the regular culprits, such as lack of sleep and a busy
schedule, the winter season contributes to fatigue. Reduced hours of sunlight contribute
to employee fatigue, plus it’s just no fun driving to work in the dark and leaving work in
the dark. Consider ways to increase alertness in the workplace, such as ensuring that as
much light is being let into the environment as possible. Encourage employees to take
short breaks and move around to give them an energy burst. Speak with employees
about the ways they feel that everyone can combat winter tiredness.