As of February 1, 2008, WorkSafeBC will implement amendments to the OH&S regulations, improving health and safety conditions for people who work alone or in isolation. These changes arise in recognition of the potential for violence and injuries faced by those who work alone or in isolation, especially during late night shifts at gas stations, convenience stores and other retail outlets that are open to the public.
This effort to address the dangers that face these employees and protect vulnerable employees from potential dangers was in part inspired by the tragic passing of Grant DePatie, a young man who was killed in 2005 when he attempted to intervene in a 'gas and dash' robbery at the late night gas station where he worked and was dragged underneath a vehicle for 5 miles. DePatie was working alone at the time of the incident, and his death inspired 'Grant's Law', which requires a mandatory pre-payment of fuel sold in retail outlets throughout BC. These regulations will be enforced 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Along with 'Grant's Law', the amended regulations include safety procedures and requirements for those working the late shifts in retail outlets that are open to the public. If a worker holds a late shift position, working alone or in isolation between the hours of 10pm to 6am, the employer must develop formal, written safety procedures and train employees in such procedures. Employers will also be expected to ensure that the late night, isolated worker is protected from physical access by the public - by locked door or barrier. As well, if adequate barriers from the public are not provided, employers may be required to schedule more than one worker during late shifts (between 10pm and 6am).
The third aspect of the amended OH&S regulations is extended to all people who work alone or in isolation. Employers are required to identify potential job hazards and take steps to minimize (hopefully eliminate) the risks posed by these hazards. The regulation outlines the usual OH&S procedures, and employers must addreess and revise current administrative procedures in order to minimize or eliminate any potential risks.
These amendments are scheduled for February 1, 2008.
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