Human Resources 101

Health and safety a clear priority for Alberta workplaces

Edmonton… Last year saw fewer workplace deaths, disabling injuries and lost-time claims in Alberta, latest health and safety statistics show. There were 124 occupational fatalities in 2006 compared to 143 in 2005, including 33 motor vehicle incidents, 27 workplace incidents, and 64 occupational disease deaths. The fatality rate compares the number of fatalities with the working population. In 2006, the rate fell to 78 fatalities per million person-years, the lowest rate since 1991 when current methodology was implemented.

“This trend highlights the positive effect of government working in partnership with industry and employees to create a culture of workplace safety. However, even one workplace death is one too many,” says Iris Evans, Minister of Employment, Immigration and Industry. “North American Occupational Safety and Health Week is an appropriate time to give serious thought to what’s important in our lives. Everyone deserves to work safe and go home at the end of their shift.”

The provincial lost-time claim rate for 2006 was 2.35 per 100 person years, down from 2.41 in 2005. This marks the sixth straight year the rate has dropped. This rate compares the number of lost-time claims submitted with the working population covered.

The disabling injury rate is a newer measure, similar to the lost-time claim rate, but covering a broader range of injuries. This rate also includes claims submitted in which employees have their work modified to accommodate their injuries, enabling them to remain in the workplace and not requiring time away from work. The disabling injury rate increased to 4.14 in 2006, from 4.02.

May 6-12 is North American Occupational Safety and Health Week. A number of events aimed at raising the profile of workplace health and safety are being held across the province. Additional information, including a list of events around Alberta, can be found at www.naosh.ca.

Promoting a safe and healthy workplace is a key action under Premier Ed Stelmach’s plan to improve Albertans’ quality of life. Other priorities for the government are to govern with integrity and transparency, manage growth pressures, build a stronger Alberta, and provide safe and secure communities.