Legal Obligations for Psychological Safety

The Occupational Health and Safety Act of Nova Scotia outlines the legislative rights of employees and precautions and duties of all workplace parties. It is important to recognize that “health and safety” applies to both the physical and psychological elements of the terms. This understanding can help us reframe how we apply the legislation.

Based on this understanding, reconsider the following:

  • All workplace parties share the responsibility for the health and safety of persons at or near the workplace.
  • Where five or more persons are regularly employed, the employer must develop a written occupational health and safety policy in consultation with the appropriate workplace parties.
  • Where 20 or more persons are regularly employed, the employer must develop and maintain a written occupational health and safety program in consultation with the appropriate workplace parties that is best adapted to the circumstances of the organization for the purpose of the implementing the policy.

Every employer must:

  • Ensure the safety of those at or near the workplace.
  • Provide information and training necessary to protect the health or safety of employees.
  • Ensure employees are aware of any health or safety hazards at the workplace.
  • Carry out business in a way that does not endanger the health or safety of employees.
  • Consult and cooperate with the joint occupational health and safety committee or representative.
  • Establish an occupational health and safety policy and program where one is required.

Every employee, while at work, must:

  • Cooperate with the employer and fellow employees to take every reasonable precaution to protect the health and safety of them‐ selves and others at or near the workplace.
  • Consult and cooperate with the joint occupational health and safety committee or safety representative.
  • Report unsafe acts and conditions at the workplace