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Overview
Workers under the age of 25 are more likely to be injured on the job than older workers.
Learn how to stay healthy and safe on the job. Before starting:
- Know your rights
- Know the rules
- Have proper training
- Communicate with co-workers and supervisors
How to say no at work
You can’t be fired for telling your boss you think a job is unsafe.
As a worker, it’s your right to be heard. Employers want to keep their workers safe and healthy, and appreciate suggestions. It can also be a great way to gain the respect of your supervisor.
This means your employer can’t lay you off, fire you or otherwise discipline you because you refuse to do, or report, dangerous work.
If you do get laid off, fired or disciplined for these reasons, contact OHS and an OHS officer will look into the situation.
If you have to quit
If you can’t work things out with your boss, you may decide to quit; your life is more important than any job. If you have questions, contact OHS at 1-866-415-8690.
How to talk to your supervisor
Keep the following advice in mind when bringing up health and safety concerns with your supervisor:
- ask the advice of a trusted co-worker first then try to work things out with your direct supervisor
- speak with your supervisor
- talk to your joint health and safety committee or representative
- approach your supervisor with a respectful and positive attitude
Example scenarios
If your employer still insists that you do unsafe work, here are some examples of what you can say.
You can’t be fired!
Each Canadian province has a law to help keep work sites safe and healthy. In Alberta, it’s called the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Act, Regulation and Code.
You can’t be disciplined or fired for following the rules of the OHS Act, Regulation or the Code. The OHS Act states: No person shall take or threaten any disciplinary action against a worker because that person did what the OHS Act told them to do. If this does happen to you, contact OHS.
Contact
Connect with OHS:
Phone: 780-415-8690 (Edmonton)
Toll free: 1-866-415-8690
TTY: 780-427-9999 (Edmonton)
TTY: 1-800-232-7215