Webinar recap: Returning to work – short- and long-term safety strategies

Earlier this month, Manufacturing AUTOMATION partnered with Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS) to present a free webinar on how manufacturers can plan their return-to-work strategies as the Canadian economy reopens following the COVID-19 lockdowns.

On May 12, our guest speaker Robert Vomiero, technical specialist, machine and robot safety for WSPS, presented safety guidelines in the context of Ontario’s ongoing emergency orders, which have been extended until June 2, 2020.

Vomiero discussed employer responsibilities and duty of care in terms of providing a safe workplace. He stressed that manufacturers must do everything reasonable in the circumstances to protect workers.

For employers in the manufacturing sector, it means they must consider how to prevent the spread of COVID-19 across all job functions, from operators and engineers to cleaners, administrative staff, maintenance personnel, etc.

Vomiero also covered the elements of a risk assessment, which he says is a critical step in developing comprehensive, robust COVID-19 safety protocols.

In addition, manufacturers must ensure that implementation of COVID-19 control measures do not create new hazards in the workplace, especially where machinery is involved.

Missed the webinar? Watch the free recording here.