A serious health and safety incident can have consequences well beyond the corporation. Managers and supervisors can also face personal liability when workplace safety obligations aren't met.

The stakes are significant. A first offence can result in fines of up to $500,000 and, in some circumstances, imprisonment for up to six months. Penalties for subsequent offences can be even more serious.

Over the summer, a number of convictions were entered under Alberta's occupational health and safety legislation following workplace fatalities and serious injuries. The incidents varied—from inadequate machine safeguards and fall protection to unsafe equipment, drowning and shifting loads—but several shared an important theme: it wasn't simply what went wrong. It was whether an effective system or process was in place to keep workers safe.

Every worksite is different. There is no one-size-fits-all safety program. But employers—and the people responsible for supervising work—need to be able to demonstrate that appropriate policies, procedures and safeguards are not only in place but are working in practice. For organizations operating in higher-risk environments, it's worth asking: Would your safety systems stand up to scrutiny after a serious incident?

If you're unsure, we can help. Our team advises employers on their occupational health and safety obligations, including reviewing and auditing policies, procedures and workplace practices before an incident puts them to the test.