This release was issued under a previous government.

The Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Futures program is providing up to $1 million in funding to eight projects. They will explore new ways to prevent injuries and illnesses, and address hazards that Albertans can face at work.

“Protecting workers and preventing injuries and death are top priorities for our government. That’s why we are proud to fund innovative research that will help reduce workplace injuries, disease, and illness for Albertans.”

Christina Gray, Minister of Labour

The grants provide opportunities for the province to work with researchers to develop an evidence-based approach in reducing workplace illness and injury. 

The funded research projects are:

  • An analysis of the effects of occupational activity such as standing, shift work and physically demanding work on maternal and fetal health (Dr. Margie Davenport, University of Alberta).
  • A project to engage Indigenous communities in improving workplace health and safety (Dr. Patricia Makokis, University of Alberta).
  • An examination of the effectiveness of creative sentences, which focus on restorative justice for the community and victims, in reducing workplace injuries (Dr. Heather Eckert, University of Alberta).
  • A study determining how the health of Alberta bakers is affected by exposure to flour and related products.  (Dr. Nicola Cherry, University of Alberta).
  • A survey to help provide threat and risk awareness to individuals and organizations (Dr. Louis Francescutti, University of Alberta).
  • An examination of workplace mental health practices and policies that focus on identifying and addressing discrepancies between genders (Dr. Bonnie Lashewicz, University of Calgary).
  • An assessment of the effects of antineoplastic drug contamination on work surfaces (Dr. Hugh Davies, University of British Columbia).
  • A study of the effectiveness of regulatory enforcement activities in reducing workplace injury rates in Alberta (Dr. Christopher McLeod, University of British Columbia).

Researchers with an interest in occupational disease and injury prevention are encouraged to apply for the next funding cycle by March 19, 2018.


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