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SAFER Choices: Experience It!

Our mission is to assist workers and employers in the BC Forest Industry to improve accident prevention and create a healthy environment, both on and off the job. To reach this safety goal, SAFER has taken a leadership role in the development of safety training sessions for workers.

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Our Recent News

Being predictive and preventative

04/08/2018 12:24

Being predictive and preventative Last-minute risk assessment process helps workers mentally check in

Why Workplace Wellness Works

04/05/2018 19:11

Proving ROI is difficult when it comes to implementing new initiatives, but when it comes to health and wellness, more companies are recognizing the benefits.

Healthy Attitude: Danger Is in the Eye of the Beholder

03/30/2018 10:14

On April 28, we’ll observe Workers’ Memorial Day to honor workers who have died while on the job. It’s a sobering reminder that not every employee who reports in at the beginning of their workday goes home at the end of it. Indeed, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of fatal work injuries reported in the U.S. climbed 7% over the previous year, and in fact it’s the third straight year workplace fatalities have increased.

Trucking industry tackling distraction, fatigue and work at heights

03/21/2018 11:52

“Truck drivers are getting older. They’re the biggest portion of our workplace population. They’re in one of the most safety-sensitive positions… Drivers are aging so we’re looking into wellness programming and other related items,” says Shaw, executive director of the Manitoba Trucking Association (MTA).

The Other Side of Owning Safety

03/21/2018 10:04

It is crucial for leaders to step up during both successes and failures and take ownership of the outcomes of the systems and processes they create.

Making Logging Safer

02/06/2018 12:24

On October 18, 2017, a logger was killed in a tragic incident near Mackenzie in northern British Columbia. The operator was using a feller buncher to cut timber on a slope when the machine tipped over backwards, cutting off his escape route when the machine caught fire. The logger’s death was devastating for his family, his community and his co-workers.

Honouring Safety Leaders in Forestry

02/01/2018 15:38

Forestry luminaries Kerry Douglas and Ed Wilcock were each honoured with a lifetime achievement award at the 12th annual Vancouver Island Safety Conference. From continuously improving safety at the mill to emergency faller rescue, these guys have safety covered.

Recognizing Safeguarding Hazards Key to Preventing Manufacturing Injuries

01/29/2018 11:01

Manufacturing covers a wide range of industries, with a wide range of safety concerns. One thing they all have in common is the need for proper safeguarding when it comes to dangerous machinery and equipment.

Putting a Lid on Tarping Injuries

01/26/2018 10:55

In 2016, a survey by the Bulk Haulers Injury Elimination Task Force (BHIET) enlisted the not-for-profit Researchers FP Innovations to survey member‑companies on the issue. They found, on average, 60 percent of all injuries for bulk haulers happened while tarping woodchip loads

Reduce Speed. Winter Driving Season Ahead

01/25/2018 13:44

B.C.’s winter driving season brings some of the most dangerous months for people who drive for work. This includes those who drive in the city in rain and fog, and those who drive on the highways in snow and sleet.

SAFER Develops Young and New Sawmill Worker Orientation Program

12/12/2017 12:53

The Safety Advisory Foundation for Education and Research, SAFER for short, which was created through broad negotiations between the IWA Canada (now United Steelworkers) and FIR on the coast and the IFLRA in the southern interior for the 1988-1991 master collective agreements in both regions.

Bracing for Winter

12/10/2017 12:57

Whether it's black ice or reduced daylight hours, winter brings demanding driving challenges. We explore how employers can help workers avoid the hazards.

Mindfulness

12/09/2017 12:59

While mindfulness doesn’t necessarily work the way the hype proclaims, there are some things that a good mindfulness practice can really help with. By better understanding when mindfulness is the right approach, HR and training programs can better enhance both leader performance and employee well-being.

Forest Fires and Lung Health Fact Sheet

11/14/2017 12:29

Forest fires are often a concern especially during dry, hot summers. The health effects from smoke can range from mild to severe and can even be life threatening. When forest fires are in effect we advise everyone to take measures to avoid the forest fire smoke as much as possible. Smoke can affect everyone’s health and breathing.

Reducing the Risk of Combustible dust

11/10/2017 11:53

This month, WorkSafeBC occupational hygiene officer Steve Tye answers questions about the often overlooked hazard of combustible dust. Industry sectors that typically generate combustible dust — such as bakeries, metal foundries, and sawmill operations — need to recognize and control these risks, in order to prevent devastating workplace incidents.