Additional measures are being put in place by the Workers Compensation Board to protect workers and employers.
The Workers Compensation Board advises all Island workplaces that the Occupational Health and Safety Regulations related to first aid will change as of Jan. 31, 2013.
In workplaces that are not considered to be low hazard, a first aid room will be required where there are 100 or more workers per shift.
First aid providers will be required in workplaces with less than five workers.
Workplaces with as few as one worker will require a first aid kit.
All Island employers and workers are encouraged to visit the Workers Compensation Board website at www.wcb.pe.ca for more information about the First Aid amendments.
“In an ideal world, first aid would not be a necessity at work,” said Nancy Guptill, Workers Compensation Board chairwoman.
“But until workplace injuries are eliminated on P.E.I., we must ensure that safety risks are adequately assessed and that we are prepared to respond in an emergency.”
Due to the availability of onsite medical treatment, hospitals and nursing homes will be exempt from the new regulations.
