ASSIGNMENT 1 PUBH 5135 ASSIGNMENT TITLE: OHS Terms &The "Internal Responsibility System" GOAL: To become familiar with common OHS terminology and gain an initial insight into the Internal Responsibility System (scored out of 30 marks). Due Date: January 18^th . 2024 PROCEDURE: Review each of the questions below. - Review/Research each item and record your results accordingly. 1. Why WOULD A COMPANY COMPLY WITH OHS LEGISI ATION AND, WHAT ARE THE TWO TOP FINES IN NOVA SCOTIA ? (4 MARKS) 2. IDENTIFY AND DESCRIBE FOUR (4) FACTORS THAT ARE SHAPING OHS LEGISLATION IN CANADA.(8 MARKS) a. b. C. d. 3. IN OUR CLASS DISCUSSION(S)WE HAVE IDENTIFIED THAT EACH PROVINCE HAS THEIR OWN LEGISLATION OF OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY & HEALTH. DISCUSS THE PRO AND CON OF THIS TYPE OF LEGISLATIVE SITUATION. (4 MARKS) 4. GHS IS AN ACRONYM THAT AS IMPORTANT MEANING IN OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY , IDENTIFY WHAT THIS STANDS FOR AND DESCRIBE THE MAIN GOAL OF THE GHS. (2 MARKS) 5. IDENTIFY AND DISCUSS WHAT THE ADVISORY COUNCIL IN Nova Scoria is (as it relates specifically to OHS of course). (2 MARKS) 6. GIVE A DEFINITION OF THE INTERNAL RESPONSIBILITY System. (4 MARKS)

## PUBH 5135 Assignment: OHS Terms & The "Internal Responsibility System"<br /><br />**1. Why WOULD A COMPANY COMPLY WITH OHS LEGISLATION AND, WHAT ARE THE TWO TOP FINES IN NOVA SCOTIA? (4 MARKS)**<br /><br />Companies comply with OHS legislation for several reasons:<br /><br />* **Moral and Ethical Obligations:** Companies have a moral responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of their employees. Creating a safe work environment demonstrates a commitment to employee welfare.<br />* **Legal Requirements:** OHS legislation mandates compliance, and failure to do so can result in significant penalties, including fines and legal action.<br />* **Financial Benefits:** A safe workplace reduces costs associated with workplace incidents, such as lost productivity, workers' compensation claims, and potential lawsuits.<br />* **Reputational Benefits:** A strong safety record enhances a company's reputation, attracting and retaining skilled workers and building trust with stakeholders.<br /><br />The two top fines in Nova Scotia under the Occupational Health and Safety Act are:<br /><br />* **For individuals:** Up to $250,000 and/or imprisonment for up to two years.<br />* **For corporations:** Up to $1,000,000.<br /><br /><br />**2. IDENTIFY AND DESCRIBE FOUR (4) FACTORS THAT ARE SHAPING OHS LEGISLATION IN CANADA. (8 MARKS)**<br /><br />a. **Technological Advancements:** New technologies introduce new hazards and require updated regulations to address risks associated with automation, robotics, nanotechnology, and other emerging fields.<br />b. **Changing Demographics:** An aging workforce and increasing workplace diversity necessitate OHS legislation that considers the specific needs and vulnerabilities of different demographic groups.<br />c. **Globalization and International Standards:** International agreements and standards, such as those from the International Labour Organization (ILO), influence Canadian OHS legislation, promoting harmonization and best practices.<br />d. **Focus on Mental Health:** Growing awareness of mental health issues in the workplace is driving changes in OHS legislation to address psychological hazards, such as stress, harassment, and burnout.<br /><br /><br />**3. IN OUR CLASS DISCUSSION(S) WE HAVE IDENTIFIED THAT EACH PROVINCE HAS THEIR OWN LEGISLATION OF OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY & HEALTH. DISCUSS THE PRO AND CON OF THIS TYPE OF LEGISLATIVE SITUATION. (4 MARKS)**<br /><br />**Pro:** Provincial jurisdiction allows for tailoring OHS legislation to the specific industries and hazards prevalent in each region. This can lead to more effective and relevant regulations.<br /><br />**Con:** Varying legislation across provinces can create inconsistencies and challenges for businesses operating in multiple jurisdictions. It can also complicate the sharing of best practices and the development of national OHS strategies.<br /><br /><br />**4. GHS IS AN ACRONYM THAT HAS IMPORTANT MEANING IN OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY. IDENTIFY WHAT THIS STANDS FOR AND DESCRIBE THE MAIN GOAL OF THE GHS. (2 MARKS)**<br /><br />GHS stands for **Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals**.<br /><br />The main goal of the GHS is to create a unified system for classifying and communicating the hazards of chemicals, ensuring consistent labeling and safety data sheets worldwide. This enhances worker safety and facilitates international trade.<br /><br /><br />**5. IDENTIFY AND DISCUSS WHAT THE ADVISORY COUNCIL IN Nova Scotia IS (as it relates specifically to OHS of course). (2 MARKS)**<br /><br />The Nova Scotia Joint Occupational Health and Safety Advisory Council advises the Minister of Labour and Advanced Education on matters related to occupational health and safety. It consists of representatives from both employer and employee organizations, providing a platform for collaboration and input on OHS policies and regulations.<br /><br /><br />**6. GIVE A DEFINITION OF THE INTERNAL RESPONSIBILITY SYSTEM (IRS). (4 MARKS)**<br /><br />The Internal Responsibility System (IRS) is a philosophy of occupational health and safety that emphasizes shared responsibility among all workplace parties. It recognizes that everyone in the workplace – employers, supervisors, and workers – has a role to play in ensuring a safe and healthy work environment. The IRS is based on the principle that those closest to the hazards are best equipped to identify and control them. It promotes cooperation, communication, and active participation in OHS initiatives.<br />