Compulsory health and safety poster for Ontario employers

Employers required to display poster explaining workers' rights and responsibilities by Oct. 1

Beginning Oct. 1, 2012, employers must display a new workplace poster “Health & Safety at Work: Prevention Starts Here." It is available from the Ministry of Labour website in English, French and 15 other languages.

The Ontario Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) requires employers to post in the workplace a copy of the act and any explanatory material — such as the poster — prepared by the ministry outlining the rights, responsibilities and duties of workers.

The poster summarizes workers’ health and safety rights and responsibilities, and the responsibilities of employers and supervisors. It also reminds employers that they must not take action against workers for following the OHSA or for raising workplace health and safety concerns and seeking compliance with the act.

The poster encourages workplace parties to get involved in health and safety. It also explains when and why to contact the Ministry of Labour regarding workplace health and safety.

The poster is available online in PDF format in 17 languages. Posters can be printed in black-and-white or in colour and must be displayed “letter” size (8.5 x 11 inches) or larger. Free printed copies (English and French only) are available from ServiceOntario Publications.

"Health & Safety at Work: Prevention Starts Here" joins other documents that must be displayed at workplaces — documents such as workplace violence and workplace harassment policies developed by the employer, a copy of the OHSA and explanatory materials and written occupational health and safety policy.

Latest stories