How are OHSA and Regulations enforced?
The Ministry’s goal is for all workplaces to achieve self-compliance with OHSA and regulations through a well-functioning Internal Responsibility System (IRS). Where this does not happen, progressive enforcement results. Enforcement begins with the issuing of orders and may proceed to prosecution. Inspectors are the enforcement arm of the Ministry of Labour; their role includes the following: • inspection of workplaces • issuing of orders where there is a contravention of OHSA or its regulations • investigation of accidents and work refusals • resolution of disputes • recommendation of prosecution. The powers an inspector may use to fulfil this role are set out in OHSA Sections 54 to 57.
