The Ministry of Labour Relations and Workplace Safety is seeking public engagement in their review of The Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, 2020. The Regulations have not been substantially reviewed since 2006.
The review is part of the Ministry’s ongoing commitment to “ensuring regulations remain relevant to the modern workplace, continue to meet the needs of employers and employees, and allow for the free flow of labour across jurisdictions.” It will be completed in three stages, providing stakeholders with the opportunity to provide feedback at each phase. The first phase involves a review of parts one to five of the Regulations.
The Ministry released a discussion paper which outlines specific questions for consideration as they relate to each Part and their sufficiency in supporting workplace health and safety. A number of topics of consideration were identified in the discussion paper, including:
- Notification requirements for serious injuries, fatalities, dangerous occurrences and high-risk asbestos processes
- Restrictions on youth workers in high-risk industries
- Occupational health and safety programs
- An employer’s duty to investigate accidents
- Interference with accident scenes
- Working alone or in an isolated place of employment
- Harassment and violence
- Occupational health committees and representatives
- First aid requirements
Industry stakeholders and employers have a chance to make their views known on these important topics and whether any changes are warranted. The deadline to submit feedback on parts one to five of the Regulations is November 30, 2025.
Submissions can be emailed to the Ministry or sent by mail to:
Occupational Health and Safety Regulations Review Corporate Services Division
Ministry of Labour Relations and Workplace Safety
300–1870 Albert Street
Regina, SK S4P 4W1
The remaining parts of the Regulations will be reviewed in the subsequent phases of the Ministry’s review. The deadlines for phases two and three will be announced at a later date.
If you have any questions related to the Regulations – or any occupational health and safety matter – please feel free to contact a member of the MLT Aikins occupational health and safety group for assistance. From mining and construction to manufacturing, our robust team has extensive experience advising employers across a broad range of industries, helping to manage all workplace health and safety issues ranging from risk management and training to dispute resolution, representation, compliance and audits.
Note: This article is of a general nature only and is not exhaustive of all possible legal rights or remedies. In addition, laws may change over time and should be interpreted only in the context of particular circumstances such that these materials are not intended to be relied upon or taken as legal advice or opinion. Readers should consult a legal professional for specific advice in any particular situation.
Share
