The Workplace Safety and Health Act is a law that protects and promotes the health and safety of workers throughout Manitoba.

As a worker in Manitoba you have rights when it comes to safety and health in your workplace. At the same time, everyone in your workplace has a personal and shared responsibility to prevent injuries and illness.

Your rights

Every worker has the following rights:

• the right to know about safety hazards in the workplace and what precautions must be taken to prevent injuries or illness from these hazards
• the right to participate in safety and health activities at the workplace including involvement in the joint workplace safety and health committee or as a worker representative
• the right to refuse any tasks that you think are dangerous to your safety and health or the safety and health of your co-workers: It is against the law for anyone to force you to do work that you think is unsafe. Your employer cannot lay you off or fire you because you refuse to do dangerous work.

Your responsibilities

As a worker in Manitoba you must:

• take reasonable care to protect yourself and others who may be affected by your actions or oversights
• properly use all safety devices and wear all protective clothing and equipment required
• co-operate with your workplace safety and health committee or representative
• co-operate with other people in your workplace regarding workplace safety and health issues

Questions to ask your employer about safety and health

1. What are the dangers of my job?
2. Are there any other hazards or dangers that I should know about at the workplace?
3. Will I receive job training for my specific duties?
4. Do we have safety and health meetings?
5. Is there protective equipment that I should use or wear and will I receive training in how to use it?
6. Will I be trained in emergency procedures?
7. Where are the fire extinguishers, first aid kits and other emergency equipment?
8. What do I do if I get hurt? Who is the first-aid person in my workplace?
9. What are my health and safety responsibilities?
10. Who do I talk to if I have a health or safety question or concern?

Where to get help

If you have a concern about safety in your workplace or need help phone the Manitoba government's Workplace Safety and Health Division.

Phone: 204-945-3446
Toll-free in Manitoba: 1-800-282-8069
After 4:30 p.m. phone: 204-945-0581