It’s both your right and your duty to report all hazards and incidents, including near misses. Reporting helps to protect yourself, your co-workers and patients.
What is a hazard?
A hazard is a thing or condition that has the potential to cause harm to a worker. A hazard could lead to a work-related injury or illness (harm) if not corrected.
An example of a hazard could be:
- An obstacle that hinders movement or could cause a trip or collision
- Broken or worn-out equipment
- A work task that requires actions like climbing, lifting or reaching
- Working alone or in isolation
- A lack of personal protective equipment in stock
If you think, “that’s an accident waiting to happen,” then it’s probably a hazard.
How to report a hazard
TELL your supervisor or manager immediately about the hazard.
REPORT the hazard by using the form provided by your workplace, online or on paper. If you need help to find the form, ask your supervisor, JOHSC worker representative, or shop steward for help.
CONNECT with your JOHSC worker representative about the hazard so they can raise the issue at their next meeting.
FOLLOW UP to find out when and how changes will be made to correct the health and safety issue.
Find out more about how to report incidents, injuries or work-related illness