The Workers' Safety and Compensation Commission (WSCC) recommends a principal obtain a clearance letter when undertaking a contractual project to avoid liability for assessments relating to the contract for which their contractor owes the WSCC. Likewise, contractors are recommended to obtain a clearance letter for any subcontractors they are in a contractual relationship with as they are liable for any assessments relating to the contract that their subcontractor owes the WSCC.

All employers who operate or establish a business in the Northwest Territories and/or Nunavut must register with the Workers’ Safety and Compensation Commission (WSCC), unless they meet the Temporary Employer criteria as set out in WSCC Policy 00.05.01– Determining Status of Persons Under the Workers’ Compensation Acts: Employers. Employers who fail to register must pay a penalty to the WSCC.

The purpose of the Safety Acts and Mine Health & Safety Acts are to keep workplaces safe from injuries and illnesses. The WSCC may seek the laying of charges for violation of these Acts. The purpose of publishing this information is to inform and educate both employers and workers of their legal responsibilities.

 

Every year on April 28, we remember all the workers who have died, been injured or suffered illness as a result of work-related incidents and we renew our commitment to creating safer workplaces.

Ceremonies in both Yellowknife and Iqaluit, hosted by the Northern Territories Federation of Labour, will take place at noon on April 28:

When a worker receives proper training, they are able to perform their work safely.

An OHS Education program identifies training needs within an organization. From there, employers design and develop a program that meets legislative requirements and reflects best practices in their work environment. 

A strong education program helps employers choose training that reduces the risk from hazards, and properly trains employees to be safe.


Visit our partners’ websites for course information and schedules:

Print and display these posters to promote safety in your workplace, or contact WSCC Communications to request free printed copies.

 

WHMIS stands for Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System and provides a guide for identifying hazardous materials found in workplaces. This ensures workers know what dangers exist and how to handle, store, and dispose of hazardous materials. 

A WHMIS Program consists of safety data sheets (SDS), product labels, and worker education programs.

WHMIS continues to evolve. For current information on WHMIS, including general information, posters, education and training requirements and courses, visit:

Based on incidences that occur in the North, WSCC publishes Hazard Alerts to remind workers (on and off the job) of hazards we face. The alerts explain the danger and offer clear instruction on how to minimize risk of injury. We release hazard alerts to help prevent similar incidence.