As you may be aware, recent changes to occupational safety regulations require a new and young worker orientation any time an employer has a new or young worker joining the crew. A young worker is defined under Occupational Health and Safety Regulation as any worker under 25. 

A new worker can be any age and includes those who are new to the workplace or location, or facing new hazards. Given the daily nature of our work in film, and often the youth of people working as PAs, this is especially relevant in our industry. It's very likely that these orientations should be conducted every day. Information about orientation for new and young workers can be found on the WorkSafe BC site, but any orientation should include the following:

• Assessment of the hazards in a location/studio setting
• Information about hazards, emergency exits and first aid facilities
• Personal protective equipment that may be required (ie safety vests)
• Who to talk to if they have questions or concerns about safety

It's also a good idea to point out relevant production policies in their start pack, like Respectful Workplace or Drug and Alcohol policies, and to document when new/young worker orientations are conducted. We also encourage you to let new PAs know that they are working under a DGC contract, and that the DGC can be a resource for them if they have any questions.

Any questions? 
Any Collective Agreement myths you'd like to see addressed in future notes from me?
Email me! ahinde@dgcbc.com