Bill 30’s WCB Implications

Unfortunately for Alberta employers, a large number remain unfamiliar with the monumental responsibilities thrust upon them by recently enacted Bill 30.

And perhaps the least understood aspect of Bill 30 is the employer’s duty to inquire into the physical and mental health of employees.

Case in point: how does an employer respect privacy rights (PIPA) when probing into an employee’s personal life? Suppose one of your key workers is uncharacteristically moody, hasn’t shaved in weeks, and there’s alcohol on his breath at 8am — how do you confront this in a duly-diligent manner while respecting legal boundaries?

This is but one example, and let’s face it, most of us lack the training to broach that socially (and legally) delicate conversation. In most cases, notwithstanding a company policy, we tend to turn a blind eye and avoid the matter altogether. I’ve seen these sensitive conversations go off the rails too many times, especially when there’s underlying tension between superior and subordinate. Hence, Shift OHS Inc. Reasonable Cause training is invaluable for the legion of managers out there who agonize over these difficult interactions — and doubly so now that substance abuse has spiked by 47% YoY.

Call (780)-340-5727 to speak with our 541 Eagleson Wynd, Edmonton T6M 0Y4 team for free.
Picture of Ben Barfett

Ben Barfett

Ben Barfett, Principal and Consultant, has spent his life in the construction sector, specifically heavy civil, enviro, commercial, and energy. Having held senior roles in business development, technical advisory, and regional management, he earned his stripes in the field and in head office. Conscious of the interplay between commercial, legal, and execution aspects of construction, his business insights are informed by expertise in WCB policy and enhanced with disability-specific training.

Picture of Ben Barfett

Ben Barfett

Ben Barfett, Principal and Consultant, has spent his life in the construction sector, specifically heavy civil, enviro, commercial, and energy. Having held senior roles in business development, technical advisory, and regional management, he earned his stripes in the field and in head office. Conscious of the interplay between commercial, legal, and execution aspects of construction, his business insights are informed by expertise in WCB policy and enhanced with disability-specific training.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.

DISCUSS YOUR CLAIM WITH US

Our phone lines are open 24/7 so reach out to us at anytime.

Alternatively, you can fill out our online form and we will respond within 24 hrs.

Get started with a Free Consultation

Article Categories