Nova Scotia Hosts Atlantic Safety Professionals

ENVIRONMENT/LABOUR--Nova Scotia Hosts Atlantic Safety Professionals

Individuals responsible for the administration of workplace health and safety laws in government for the four Atlantic provinces and the federal government are in Halifax this week to share ideas, information and approaches.

This is the 15th year for the annual meeting that, this year, will involve about 35 people. The participants are field staff, managers and directors in government who are responsible for enforcing health and safety legislation in their respective jurisdictions. The learning opportunities at these sessions help raise the service standard by the agencies, further Atlantic co- operation in the field and help develop common approaches to the delivery of services.

"I think this is a great initiative. It gives us an opportunity to really listen and learn from each other. And if that can prevent just one similar injury from occurring, then it's worth it," said Environment and Labour Minister Kerry Morash.

Some of the topics that will be discussed at this year's meeting include reviews of some major files handled in each of the jurisdictions in the last year, recent developments in protective equipment in the areas of chain saw safety and fall protection, and standards for aviation maintenance. The group will also review the utilities experience and health and safety performance in response to Hurricane Juan.

This is the third time Nova Scotia has hosted the annual meeting, which rotates among the four Atlantic provinces. The two-day meeting is taking place today, May 26, and Thursday, May 27.