News release

New Occupational Safety Regulations to Take Effect May 1

Labour (to Sept. 2000)

The provincial government has taken another step in its quest to make Nova Scotia workplaces the safest in Canada. Cabinet has given final approval to the new Occupational Safety General Regulations, which will come into effect May 1, 2000.

The announcement was made today by Labour Minister Angus MacIsaac.

"This completes one of the most extensive and comprehensive review process ever undertaken in Nova Scotia," Mr. MacIsaac said. "It started in 1993 as government and stakeholders carried out exhaustive reviews."

The minister said the original plan called for an implementation date of April 1, 2000, but after hearing concerns from some stakeholders a 30-day extension was granted.

"The advisory council, on behalf of the people they represent, asked for the delay," Mr. MacIsaac said. "They felt that was the minimum amount of time required to become prepared for the new regulations."

Mr. MacIsaac said it is important that the stakeholders understand the intent of these regulations and that there is full compliance.

"Over the next month, officials from the Department of Labour will be carrying out information sessions across the province," he said. "The regulations will also be posted on the Internet and people requiring further assistance can call our toll-free line, 1-800-9LABOUR."

A new red tape commission -- to be appointed by government within days -- will take a look at five of these regulations, which are slated to come into effect on Nov. 1, 2000. These cover:

  • Lock-out
  • Roll-over Protective Structures
  • Hoists
  • Confined Space Entry
  • Electrical Plans

"We have had an inordinate amount of comments from members of the small business community who are not represented on the advisory board," Mr. MacIsaac said. "Many of these individuals run very small businesses and do not have the resources to deal with changes in workplace regulations. Such is the case of the roll-over protection structures. We felt it is important not to interfere with this year's planting and harvesting. And by waiting until after the harvest, the individual may be in a better position to financially handle the change."

"However, I would urge those who are ready to implement the new safety procedures so it becomes part of their culture."

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