Workers are entitled to a safe workplace environment. Employers
must comply with prescribed regulations regarding workplace health
and safety, and employees may have a right to refuse work in unsafe
conditions. Employers should encourage workers to report potential
hazards in the workplace and then take proactive steps to address
dangerous situations. By doing so, employers will not only ensure
the safety of workers in the workplace, but they may also avoid
financial consequences (and in some cases, criminal liability)
associated with disregarding occupational health and safety.
If there is any indication that conditions are unsafe and
performing a task may result in harm to the employee or a
co-worker, the employee may refuse to do the task until proper
safety precautions are in place. The worker must report the
hazardous conditions to the employer or a supervisor immediately
and give the reasons why he or she considers the assignment to be
unsafe. The employer
