Clear safety programs and procedures support effective training and supervision by outlining expectations and responsibilities, while also serving as documented proof of due diligence. As part of your Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) management system, these written plans and detailed instructions guide how your organization identifies, controls, and manages workplace health and safety risks. They provide clear direction to workers and supervisors, ensure regulatory compliance, and promote consistency across all levels of your operation.
Well-developed and implemented safety programs and procedures show your organization’s commitment to protecting workers and preventing injuries.
There’s a lot to consider when creating your organization’s safety programs and procedures. Check out our templates and resources, created with social service workers in mind, to help your process.
WorkSafeBC Requirements
Programs and written procedures are a requirement of the WorkSafe BC Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Regulation.
Learn more:
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What Employers Need to Know
Legal Requirements
- Employers must establish formal safety programs and practical written procedures that address the specific risks in their workplace. Each program should outline policies, responsibilities, and the processes required to control associated hazards effectively. Tip: Use our Occupational Health and Safety Program template to create your own program:
- Identify specific topics that may require a standalone program. For example:
- Confined Space
- Emergency Preparedness
- Ergonomics or Musculoskeletal Injury Prevention
- Exposure Control Plans
- Violence Prevention
- Working Alone
- Workplace Inspections
Best Practices
Take Safety Seriously
- Develop key safety programs and written procedures for managing high-risk activities.
- Create clear procedures including purpose and scope, responsibilities, step-by-step instructions, and required tools, forms, or personal protective equipment.
- Clearly define the overall goals and specify the responsibilities of the employer, supervisors, and workers.
- Distribute procedures to all affected workers and ensure documents are accessible and understood.
- Review procedures at least once annually and after any changes to the workplace, incidents, near misses, or regulatory changes. Make sure any updates are communicated effectively to all staff.
Be Transparent
- Involve front-line workers and supervisors when developing procedures to ensure they reflect actual tasks and hazards.
- Make sure procedures are accessible by storing digital versions on a shared platform and posting relevant procedures near equipment, hazardous areas, or first aid stations.
Be Consistent
- Use a consistent format across all procedures (e.g., same headers, structure, and font).
- Include version numbers and revision dates.
Review and Update
- Ensure printed copies are current.
- Review procedures regularly in staff or safety meetings to reinforce expectations.
- Require workers to sign off after training or updates to a procedure.
Disclaimer: This resource is intended to help community social service organizations understand the requirements of developing different aspects of health and safety programs. It provides information on key concepts and directs users to relevant resources. The content above is not a substitute for professional legal advice. Please refer to the included links or consult official legislation and resources for current and accurate information.