Shows
The Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastThe Sound of Safety: Protecting Hearing at WorkNoise-induced hearing loss is the most common occupational disease claim in Newfoundland and Labrador, but it is preventable. Employers must develop a hearing conservation program if their workers are exposed to hazardous noise levels to protect hearing health. DeeAnne Feltham-Scott, OHS Educational Consultant, WorkplaceNLis joined by Marta Evstigneev, Coordinator of Education, Canadian Hard of Hearing Association of Newfoundland and Labrador, and Aaron Jones, Industrial Hygienist, WorkplaceNL to describe hearing loss, explain the contributing factors to hearing loss and outline the elements of a hearing conservation program.2025-06-1623 minThe Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastWHS Representatives and Designates: Strong voices for workplace safetyWorker Health and Safety (WHS) Representatives and Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) Designates play an important role in developing a positive safety culture in the workplace. Their responsibility is to consult with the employer and workers to monitor the health and safety of the workplace in promoting occupational health and safety. They may participate in workplace inspections, provide advice to correct hazards and work with the omployer and workers to effectively resolve work refusals. DeeAnne Feltham-Scott is joined by Kevin Fisher, Executive Director, Newfoundland and Labrador Occupational Health and Safety Association (NLOHSA) and Charmaine...2025-04-2827 minThe Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastMental Health in the WorkplaceIt’s hard to believe that the CSA Standard for psychologicalhealth and safety was published over a decade ago. It has been a topic of conversation in NL, as well as Canada and other countries. We are seeing the needle move forward on progressive actions, standards, and regulations to support the psychological well-being of workers. The more work being done is leading to new andemerging best practices in the field. Cathy Barrett-Brinson, Sr. Health and Safety Advisor and Jordan Friesen, Founder and Principal Consultant of Mindset Mental Health Strategy joins DeeAnne Feltham-Scott to talk more about what ps...2025-04-1534 minThe Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastFrank Ryan - The Journey from Injured Worker to SuccessIn this inspiring episode, we delve into the remarkable journey of Frank Ryan, who transformed his life from being an injured worker to achieving new heights of success. Frank shares his personal background, revealing the learning challenges he faced and how they shaped his resilience. Frank joins Jo-Ann Woodland, OHS Educational Consultant and Kayte Parnell, Case Manager to discuss his successful navigation of WorkplaceNL's Labour Market Re-entry Plan, which played a pivotal role in his recovery and reintegration into the workforce.2025-03-1432 minThe Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastIt's PRIME Time!PRIME, WorkplaceNL’s financial incentive program, is changing. New requirements for Path 1 (smaller) Employers are currently in place, while new requirements for Path 2 (larger) employers are being rolled out in 2026.
Sheri Philpott, Senior Health and Safety Advisor, joins DeeAnne Feltham-Scott, OHS Educational Consultant to review these changes. Learn more about how Path 1 and Path 2 employers can qualify for their PRIME refund.
2024-12-1118 minThe Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastOHS in Healthcare: Caring for our CaregiversThe healthcare industry includes complex work environments, with work activities, professions, and workplace hazards in various work settings. These settings include, but are not limited to hospitals, clinics, client’s homes, and long-term care facilities. Each setting and facility can create challenges for workers, however with challenges come opportunities for improving workplace health and safety and patient care. Learn more with DeeAnne Feltham-Scott, OHS Educational Consultant and Gary Pardy, Provincial Director Employee Wellbeing, Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services.
2024-11-1327 minThe Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastWhat is Lockout Tagout (LOTO)?Where the unexpected energization or start-up of machinery or equipment, or the unexpected release of an energy source could cause injury, the energy source
shall be isolated and effectively controlled. Lockout devices secure an energy-isolating device in a position that prevents the energization of a machine, equipment, or process.
DeeAnne Feltham-Scott, OHS Educational Consultant,
WorkplaceNL is joined by Dion Newman, Executive Director, Forestry Safety Association of Newfoundland and Labrador to discuss the fundamentals of LOTO.
2024-10-0122 minThe Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastOHS Committee's Role in Identifying MSI Risk FactorsIs your workplace OHS committee playing an active role in musculoskeletal injury (MSI) prevention? Are members competent in recognizing MSI risk factors associated with
work? Committees should receive education to support employers and workers in finding and controlling these risk factors to prevent MSIs.
In this episode, Linda Sagmeister, Manager of Occupational Health and Safety Inspections, Digital Government and Service NL and Cheryl Osborne, Health and Safety Advisor, WorkplaceNL discusses how to formally and informally inspect workplaces with an ergonomics eye to spot and address early warning signs before MSIs develop.
...2024-09-2618 minThe Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastWorking Safely with AsbestosAsbestos is a natural mineral made of fibers invisible to
the naked eye. It is durable, fireproof and
resistant to heat and chemicals. Asbestos may cause long-term health effects including asbestosis, lung cancer,
and mesothelioma when workers are repeatedly exposed to airborne levels above the occupational exposure limits. Employers, contractors, and owners must make every effort to minimize exposure of workers and other occupants to airborne asbestos fibres. DeeAnne Feltham-Scott, OHS Educational Consultant and Aaron Jones, Industrial Hygeinist, of Prevention Services, WorkplaceNL discuss working safely with asbestos.
2024-08-1421 minThe Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastFirst Responders Warm-line: Mental Health SupportThe First Responders Warmline (1-709-237-4180) is staffed by first responders trained by Lifewise in the delivery of peer support. The warmline is available to provide mental health support to first responders, so they can continue to help and support others. A first responder is any person who is the first to arrive on the scene of an incident, that include but not limited to paramedics, firefighters, police officers, emergency search and rescue, military personnel and veterans, corrections personnel, nurses, social workers, frontline service providers, first aiders and anyone who identifies as a first responder.
DeeAnne...2024-06-1024 minThe Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastNL OHS Legislation Changes: OHS Committees and OHS ProgramsAmendments to the Occupational Health and Safety Act
for occupational health and safety programs and committees came into effect March 1, 2024. These new requirements raise the worker threshold for occupational health and safety programs and committees from 10 or more to 20 or more workers at a worksite.
DeeAnne Feltham-Scott, OHS Educational Consultant and Jo-Ann Woodland, OHS Educational Consultant discusses these important changes in relation to managing workplace health and safety and PRIME.
2024-05-1021 minThe Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastThe Basics of Health SurveillanceAn important part of occupational health is how work and the work environment can affect workers’ health. The provincial Occupational Health and Safety Act requires health surveillance when workers are exposed to particular workplace health hazards such as noise, silica, asbestos and lead. Health surveillance is a plan of repeated and ongoing health checks that can identify any health effects caused by work.
2024-03-2224 minThe Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastThe Three Pillars of Mental Health and Stress Management: MovementThe physical benefits of regular movement and exercise in improving physical health have long been established. Healthcare professionals encourage us to stay active to improve and maintain good health. Exercise is also considered vital for maintaining mental fitness, and helps to reduce stress. Studies have shown that regular participation in aerobic activity decreases overall levels of tension, elevates and stabilizes emotions and moods, and improves sleep and self-esteem. Ryan Osborne, Kinesiologist and owner of Oz Coaching joins DeeAnne Feltham-Scott, OHS Educational Consultant to discuss how regular movement and exercise throughout the workday can help to manage daily stress.
2024-01-1825 minThe Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastThe Three Pillars of Mental Health and Stress Management: Fatigue Management and SleepFatigue is a complex issue linked to many factors inside and outside the workplace. It can be a safety and health hazard for the fatigued person and a safety hazard for those who work around them. Fatigue is often caused by several interrelated factors which can be cumulative or build up over time to become hazardous. It is not just about lack of sleep, eating properly, working extended hours/shift work, or doing physically challenging work. We will explore all the factors that result in worker fatigue, and how employers and workers can manage it.
2024-01-1821 minThe Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastThe Three Pillars of Mental Health and Stress Management: NutritionWhat we put into our bodies as fuel directly impacts our energy levels throughout the work day. Eating a nutritious and well-balanced diet with healthy foods gives our bodies the energy we need to be productive, motivated and better able to manage daily stressors. The best way to ensure you are getting the nutrition your body needs is to your nutrition for the work day which includes whole foods, fruits, vegetables, fermented foods, healthy fats and protein. This may sound challenging for our busy lives, but you don’t have to make big changes
to your diet to see ho...2024-01-1829 minThe Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastSharing the Responsibility of Mental Health in the WorkplaceA person’s job and workplace should not harm their mental health. Employers identify and control
psychological health hazards while workers tell them what they need to maintain good mental health in their jobs. Many employers and workers recognize this shared responsibility and work together to create and foster a psychologically safe workplace. Understanding the issues of mental health and having open and honest
conversations about job tasks that can impact worker's mental health begins with a supportive culture.
Cathy Barrett-Brinson, Senior Health and Safety Advisor, WorkplaceNL talks to Craig Smith, Fire Fighter, St. John's Regional Fire Dep...2023-12-2025 minThe Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastEmergency Response PlanningOccupational health and safety legislation outlines general requirements for preparing and responding to workplace emergencies. An emergency response plan prepares workplaces to deal with unforeseen situations such as fires, chemical spills, explosions, floods, injury, illness and other crises. Colin Fewer, OHS Educational Consultant - Youth and Aaron Jones, Industrial Hygienist of WorkplaceNL discuss the importance of having procedures that employers and workers follow in an emergency to ensure workplace safety and minimize property damage.
2023-10-3114 minThe Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastDIY Office ErgonomicsDo you sit for long periods? Is your computer setup making you uncomfortable? Join us as we discuss tips that you, as a worker, can do to achieve a more ergonomically friendly setup. This will help you feel more comfortable and productive at work, as well as reduce the risk of developing an MSI.
2023-09-1825 minThe Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastSupervisor's Role in Identifying MSI Risk FactorsSupervisors are responsible for ensuring workers know about the hazards in their work and how to work safely. Join us as we discuss how this responsibility relates to MSI prevention, and identifying MSI risk factors in the workplace.
2023-09-1824 minThe Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastAre you Ready for Work? - The Five W’s of Warm-upsBuilding a five-minute pre-activity warm-up into your routine can help prevent strain or sprain injury. In this episode, Dr. Mike Wahl joins us to discuss how a proper warm-up prepares your body to face the physical demands of work. Employers are responsible for helping keep workers healthy and implementing a warm-up program as part of the job may be an effective risk mitigation measure for musculoskeletal injury for physical jobs.
2023-09-1828 minThe Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastDiversity, Equity and Inclusion: Getting it RightGiven the shift in Canada's demographics, conversations about diversity and inclusion in the workplace have become more mainstream. With the number of immigrants steadily increasing every year, these conversations of inclusion have become even more critical to make sure organizations are changing to include all workers. The characteristics of an inclusive environment are one where everyone feels included, supported, and embraced for who they are and for the unique qualities they bring to the team. How do you unlock the power that diversity, equity, and inclusion bring? It starts with a commitment to building
a culture where everyone feels...2023-08-3124 minThe Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastLifecycle of a ClaimAny injury that arises out of and in the course of a person's employment can be a potential worker's compensation claim. Employers and workers should know how to submit a claim, and what they should expect from the claim process. Join us as we discuss the lifecycle of a worker compensation claim and what employers and workers need to know.
2023-07-2516 minThe Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastThe Basics of Peer SupportPeer Support is an essential tool to have in your mental health toolbox for those experiencing mental health and addiction issues through sharing lived experiences. DeeAnne Feltham-Scott, OHS Educational Consultant, WorkplaceNL is joined by Meghan Riggs, Communications Officer, Lifewise, to discuss the basics of peer support and the process of becoming a trained peer supporter. Lifewise is the only provincial organization in Newfoundland & Labrador created by and for individuals with mental health and addiction issues. They exist to support and encourage individual recovery through self-determination while working to break the stigma surrounding these societal issues.
2023-06-2927 minThe Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastThe Impacts of Hearing LossWorkplace noise is one of the most common occupational health hazards in Newfoundland and Labrador. Workers who are exposed to noise that exceeds recommended levels without protection are placing themselves at risk for hearing loss. Brenda Greenslade, Executive Director of the Newfoundland and Labrador Fish Harvesting Association, describes the prevalence of hearing loss in the fishing industry and the measures that are being taken to reduce noise levels. Amy Fitzpatrick, MadeSafe NL and DeeAnne Feltham-Scott, OHS Educational Consultant, WorkplaceNL interview Larry Pinksen who has been a Fish Harvester for 47 years and shares his story of living and working with...2023-05-2633 minThe Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastRescue Planning with Colin LeGrowWe make every possible effort to prevent incidents and injuries in the workplace, but we need to be prepared in case things don't go as planned. Prompt and effective rescue from work at heights and in confined spaces is a legislated requirement for employers in Newfoundland and Labrador who conduct those activities. It is critical that employers are prepared to respond effectively and efficiently to emergencies if they occur. Join us as we discuss rescue planning and what that means for employers with our guest Colin LeGrow with Technical Rope and Rescue.
2023-04-1820 minThe Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastHarassment Prevention in the Workplace: Common Questions and AnswersEvery provincially-regulated workplace in the province is required to have a Harassment Prevention Plan. There have been many questions from employers and workers on how to meet their legislative obligations in creating a workplace that is free from harassment. Lisa Kavanagh, WorkplaceNL and Linda Sagmeister, Occupational Health and Safety Division, Digital Government and Service NL, answer some frequently asked questions on this topic.2023-03-2923 minThe Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastSafety Leadership with Labatt Brewery NLSafety leadership and commitment is critical to the success of safety in the workplace. In 2022, WorkplaceNL introduced the annual Safety Leadership Awards for Employers and Employees. The Safety Leadership Awards recognize employers and workers who demonstrate leadership and a visible commitment to health and safety in workplaces in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Labatt Brewery NL was the inaugural winner of WorkplaceNL’s Safety Leadership Award for Employers, presented at our Learning Symposium in 2022. Using a collaborative and cooperative approach to safety, Labatt Brewery NL uses workforce teamwork to keep everyone safe. Through hard work and innovation, they empower their...2023-03-0715 minThe Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastCommunication MattersThe foundation of a psychologically healthy and safe workplace is respectful and clear communication that builds trust and meaningful interactions between employees. Workplaces should create a culture where everyone can feel comfortable sharing their ideas and concerns, including mental health in the workplace. The way we talk about mental health is powerful and can either prevent someone from talking about their mental health or prevent them from helping others. Let's make sure we use language that is based on respect, builds trust and collaboration, and enables positive interactions and relationships.2023-01-2021 minThe Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastThe New PRIMEPRIME (Prevention and Return-to-work Insurance Management for Employer and Employees) is WorkplaceNL's employer incentive program. Over the next few years, updates and changes will be coming to the PRIME program. Join us as we discuss what PRIME is, what the changes are, and how these changes will affect employers. 2022-12-0613 minThe Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastOHS Roles and ResponsibilitiesEmployers, supervisors, and workers must understand their respective roles and responsibilities to create a healthy and safe workplace. Join Sheri Philpott and DeeAnne Feltham-Scott as they discuss Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) responsibilities, the internal responsibility system, and due diligence. 2022-11-0716 minThe Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastMove Well - Work Well Week - Tips for a Successful WeekMove Well – Work Well Week is an annual event in Newfoundland and Labrador to raise awareness of MSIs and find practical solutions for prevention in workplaces.
Musculoskeletal injuries (MSIs) are painful disorders of the muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, spinal discs, and related soft tissues. MSIs include repetitive strain and overexertion injuries like sprains, strains, and inflammation.
Move Well – Work Well reminds us that when we move often, rather than being sedentary or staying in one position too long, and when we move well, using good body mechanics, it results in us being well and working well...2022-09-2019 minThe Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastMy Journey with PTSD, Life After an InjuryChris Denine was 31 years old and working in building maintenance in Labrador in 2017 when he suffered a workplace injury. Since that time Chris has not been able to return to his pre-injury position, pre-injury employer, or pre-injury region. Following extensive rehabilitation, Chris participated in a Labour Market Re-entry screening, and eventually a full Labour Market Re-entry assessment. Chris successfully completed retraining in the Supply Chain Logistics program and is now employed full-time as a Supply Chain Coordinator in St. John’s. Chris and his wife, Heather share their powerful journey of living life to the fullest after a diagnosis of...2022-09-1527 minThe Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastPreventing Stress and Burnout with Alison ButlerMental health is a concern for working Canadians. 70% report that work impacts their mental health, and 78% report that poor mental health is the primary reason for missing work. Canadian employees report workplace stress as the leading cause of their mental health concerns. Burnout is described as emotional exhaustion, cynicism, and being ineffective and unproductive in the workplace caused by prolonged negative responses to stressful workplace conditions. There are various coping strategies that individuals can use to help manage daily stress in the workplace and at home.
2022-08-2325 minThe Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastTips for an Effective Occupational Health and Safety CommitteeOccupational health and safety committees (OHSC) are a group of employer and worker representatives who monitor worker health and safety in consultation with the employer. Join Jo-Ann Woodland and Valerie Ducey as they discuss practical ways to effectively engage members of the OHSC and the workplace to create a healthy and safe workplace. 2022-08-0821 min
The Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastPreventing Serious InjuriesSerious injuries and fatalities are devastating to employees and workplaces and can have long-lasting effects. The Newfoundland and Labrador Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulations require employers to report serious injuries and fatalities to the OHS Division. Employers, supervisors, and workers must understand their respective roles and responsibilities to prevent serious injuries and fatalities.2022-06-2416 minThe Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastMental Health First AidMental Health First Aid (MHFA) is the support provided to a person who may be experiencing a decline in their mental well-being or a mental health crisis. The Mental Health Commission of Canada reports that one in every five Canadians experiences a mental health problem in any given year. We tend to know more about physical illness than we do about mental health or substance use problems.
This lack of understanding leads to negative attitudes of stigma toward people who live with these problems. It stops people from seeking help for themselves. When we don’t know th...2022-05-2716 minThe Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastThose Left Behind: The impact of a workplace fatalityMarked annually in Canada on April 28, the National Day of Mourning is dedicated to remembering those who have lost their lives or suffered injury or illness on the job or due to a work-related tragedy. The National Day of Mourning is not only a day to remember and honour those lives lost or injured due to a workplace tragedy, but also a day to collectively renew our commitment to improve health and safety in the workplace and prevent further injuries, illnesses and deaths.2022-04-2616 minThe Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastPreventing Incivility and Harassment in the WorkplaceThe prevalence of harassment and violence in Canadian workplaces has led to changes in OHS legislation throughout the country, including Newfoundland and Labrador. There is growing evidence of the negative impacts these behaviours have on employees’ mental and physical health and safety, and the overall health of organizations and communities. Employers are responsible to find hazards that can lead to violence and harassment, and implement measures to create an environment that is safe and free of harassment.2022-03-2215 min
The Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastPreventing Slips, Trips and FallsSlips, trips and falls are common workplace injuries that can be prevented when properly controlled. Join us as we discuss provincial injury statistics, causes of slips, trips and falls; prevention strategies, and an important initiative aimed at the prevention of falls in the construction industry.2022-02-1515 min
The Signal: WorkplaceNL's Health and Safety PodcastTaking Care of your Mental Health at WorkMental health and physical health are equally important. As employers, there are many things that can be done to create a workplace that is psychologically healthy and safe for workers. And as workers who share the responsibility in workplace health and safety, there are also activities that can be done to support employers in creating a productive, efficient, and stress-reduced workplace.2022-01-2414 min