Professional Studies

Managing Occupational Health, Safety and Environment

DPS 51037 (36 hours)

Core Course: Human Resource Management Diploma 

The health and safety of workers is paramount to a vibrant and effective workforce. This course will examine the roles and responsibilities of the human resources practitioner in the area of workplace health and safety. Participants will examine best practice for fostering a workplace culture where workers and management in cooperation to assure safety and report unsafe conditions. The overall success of a workplace health and safety program relies on developing a clear communication plan, establishing relationships across the entire organization, and setting strategic goals to maintain and promote a safe work environment while ensuring compliance with the various legislated requirements.

Objectives:

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:

  • Know where to find pertinent legislation and regulation pertaining to workplace health and safety, identify the key components, and gain an understanding of the jurisdictional differences between federal and provincial legislation.
  • Identify the roles of the employer, supervisor and worker pertaining to workplace health and safety in order to meet legal obligations.  This will be based on the eleven elements required by Manitoba Workplace Safety and Health legislation.
  • Familiarize yourself with the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) and understand your role in educating workers about the three elements of WHMIS.
  • Identify guidelines for establishing a workplace health and safety committee/Rep.
  • Gain an understanding of the function of and systems within the Workers Compensation Board, and the responsibilities and benefits of disability-case management and return to work programs.
  • Understand the principles of injury protection and the four basic rights of workers.
  • Write a job hazard analysis and safe work procedure.
  • Create policy and procedure for accident investigation.
  • General understanding of the requirements of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment).
  • Discuss harassment and violence in the workplace and employer’s responsibilities.
  • Highlight training and motivation, emergency planning and work-life balance.