As an employer in Quebec, you should see the Act respecting occupational health and safety (LSST) as more than a list of regulations: it's the backbone of your company culture.
Since the recent reforms, occupational health and safety (OHS) management has taken on new importance. Not knowing these rules doesn't just put your employees at risk; it exposes your company to hefty CNESST fines and major legal consequences.
Here's what you absolutely need to know to sleep soundly at night.
1. The duty to prevent: act before the accident
In Quebec, the principle is clear: the employer must eliminate hazards at the source. It's not a suggestion; it's a legal obligation.
- Risk assessment: Identify every potential hazard in your work environment.
- Training: Make sure every team member has the skills to work safely.
- Inspections: Be prepared, because CNESST inspectors can show up at your premises without notice.
2. The prevention program: your written action plan
Did you know that many companies are now required to have an official prevention program? This document isn't meant to gather dust in a drawer. It must be:
- Specific to the risks of your industry.
- Updated regularly.
- Accessible to and known by all your workers.
3. Workers' rights: a necessary partnership
The LSST is built on active participation. Your employees have three fundamental rights that you must respect and encourage:
- The right to know: Be informed of the hazards related to their tasks.
- The right to participate: Help identify and manage risks.
- The right to refuse: Refuse to perform a task if they have reasonable grounds to believe it poses a danger to their health, safety or physical well-being.
4. What has changed since 2021-2022 (Bill 59)
The modernization of the LSST brought major changes that you can no longer ignore. Employers now have greater responsibilities regarding:
- Psychological and sexual harassment: Stricter prevention policies are required.
- Domestic violence: Employers must take the necessary measures to protect a worker who is exposed to domestic violence in the workplace.
- Mental health: Preventing psychosocial risks is now an integral part of OHS management.
"Did you know? A compliant work environment not only lowers your CNESST premiums but also improves talent retention.
Need a hand with your HR compliance?
Legislation changes quickly, and it's easy to get lost between day-to-day management and new standards. Industrielle RH helps you audit your hiring and management practices to make sure they strictly comply with Quebec laws in force.