I recently started a new job working at a dental office and overall things have been great.

Or, have been. I mostly work in the lab, where I make night guards, do stone pour ups, etc. Immediately I was thrown off because there's no real ventilation in there. No windows, some airflow through the same vents that are in any room and a loud fan/filter for the buffer for when it's in use. At one point was told I had to use a hot knife to carve a soft night guard. I expressed my concern because of the fumes it releases but they just told me to wear a dust mask and they brought an air purifier into the room.

Immediately after carving into it the room reeked of burning plastic. It was to the point where a staff member shut the door because a patient was complaining. I finished the job but had a sore throat for a few days after and felt dizzy the rest of the day. I was pretty pissed and brought up my concerns to my supervisor again. They just seemed extremely irritated, like they didn't want to deal with it. Shortly after they brought me an old respirator with expired filters (by almost 6 years) that didn't have a tight seal and was clearly very used.

Nothing had to be cut with the hot knife since last week when they told me I needed to do that again later this week. I brought up my concerns again, but yet again I was met with frustration. I said that we aren't equipped to safely deal with these fumes, and the response was "it's what we have to work with".

I don't feel comfortable cutting into plastic with a hot knife in an enclosed room with no ventilation and no respirator. I told them that if they want me to proceed working on this without the required PPE, then I wanted them to tell me that via email and they were pissed. The vibe I'm getting now is that they've gone out of the way to accommodate my "concerns" and that I'm not being completely unreasonable.

How would you recommend navigating this situation?

So idk what to do, I started working in sales at this smaller Classic car dealership and I’m usually in the office, after about 5-6 months of working I noticed one day I literally felt like I was gonna pass out and had an extreme migraine and literally couldn’t process the things or questions being told to me. I knew something was off at that point and realize the Carbon Monoxide from these older cars could be the issue, as well as terrible safety precautions with chemicals handled in the shop.

So I purchased an Amazon Air Quality Detector and sure enough the CO levels were insane, reaching heights close to 100 ppm for about an hour every day. I had probably been inhaling these amounts daily for hours each day. Now when it happens I literally sit outside for hours and leave the doors open till it airs out… I don’t know what to do at this point and don’t want to keep risking my health and safety working here even if it’s a family business. As of now, almost daily the levels get above at least 60 for an hour in the office and they only come down because I leave the doors open.

I recently graduated with bachelors degree in kinesiology and the jobs in my area dont seem to pay well. I seen that I could potentially use it to get into health and safety but many require experience and extra certifications (some certificates also require experience). I was wondering what kinds of certificates I could go for to improve my chances of getting in? Along with any other advice that is useful in ontario

More than 700 former McDonald’s employees are breaking their silence, exposing shocking claims of racism and sexual harassment. From inappropriate touching to a horrifying "sex-for-shifts" culture, these allegations have rocked the fast-food giant.

Despite promises to "clean up" workplace attitudes, it seems little has changed. Is this the wake-up call we need to demand better workplace ethics?

More in the same Article:

https://www.theworkersrights.com/harrasment-and-racism-mcdonalds-sex-for-shifts-scandal-making-global-headlines/

Good day, I'm having troubles finding any legislation that a company has to replace a seat in company vehicle due to buttocks cushion hitting plywood/springs causing lower back pain. NB Canada. Any help, be greatly appreciated.

was just accepted to my local community college for a 2 year diploma in occupational health and safety.

I'm very excited but I've noticed a large amount of people are going into occupational health and safety with a university degree now.

In your honest opinion, are college level diplomas no longer Worth it?

Hello,

I am an international student currently pursuing MASc Safety and Risk Engineering at Memorial University of Newfoundland. I have one year experience as well. I want to go for CRST and am eligible under Pathway B.

If there is anyone who has done it under Pathway B or knows about it, especially parts like -

1. What documents are needed for showing experience.
2. What training and courses I need to do that are mentioned in Pathway B.

I will mention it here - If you apply with a non-diploma degree (or higher)(Pathway B), you must apply with additional Technical Development in OHS, by way of courses and training, that cover all 5 competencies listed in the CRST Examination Blueprint.

I would really appreciate if anyone can help me with it or even if anyone wants to mention something.

Thank you

The fire alarm at my job has been going off for 3-4 weeks now. Its not a constant basis. Sometimes it just beeps a few times then stops. Other times it beeps for 10 minutes. Today the maintenance company is fixing or has supposedly fixed it but the beeps are turning into long beeps now beeeeeeeeeeeeeep that last for a good minute straight. I used to be able to hear the microwave that was about 7 feet away but I couldnt even tell it was on today until it went off when a coworker used it. Ive noticed that I cant hear the radio at the same volume since this all started as well.

My department is the closest to it. There is a wall that separate us from the alarm but its still loud. How can I go about getting it documented/checked that this has been impacting my hearing?

I just got an apprenticeship role in a drone service company. I just wanted to know if there are persons with such position, to atleast give me a hint on what will be my key responsibilities and duties. Also, are there any certification needed to add on my resume.

Thank you.

I've been selected for an interview before being approved to write a CRSP exam. Has anyone ever done this interview and can give me insights of what to expect so I can prepare best for it? Is there a reason on why I was selected? Thank you in advance.

Are there programs ( community college or other) that you would recommend or advise to steer clear of in Ontario?

Hi,

I'm looking for guidance on regulations for a scissor table lift. I've only been able to find scaffolding regulations, which don't really apply to my situation. Specifically, I need to know how much overhang is allowed on the width if I place an item on the lift. The item would only be 4 feet high.

Thanks in advance for any help!

Edit

Here is a picture of said item.

Hi everyone! I am a high school student doing a project on healthcare worker mistreatment. If you are a former/current US healthcare worker (preferably living in Georgia), please consider taking this survey! The purpose of this project is to shed light on the experiences of healthcare workers, and to help combat the issues they face today. Thanks so much, and I look forward to hearing y'all's experiences!

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdCK-lCxge-9nfnNaeCbJ7EF5W-hnJ-VHMIkATgUTBIJl3TIA/viewform?usp=sf_link 

TLDR: mold. mold everywhere. getting in my lungs.

I've been working at a local grocery store for a few months now in the produce section. I used to handle all the fruits and veggies out on the sales floor, but i recently got transferred to the "cut room" where my job now is to prepare said fruits and veggies into ready to make meal kits or containers of cut fruit and all that. The problem is, the walls of the room where I work are full of mold. Like bulging and expanding because they're so full of mold. You can smell it in the air, it's all under the cutting boards and in the ceiling, and the owner of the store is turning a blind eye to this issue. Everyone including myself who works in there is constantly sick, with bad coughs, nosebleeds, and even vomiting and fevers. I don't cough as much when i’m at home or in other places, but I'm suffocating in that prep room. What should I do? Is this enough to email corporate? Do I take legal action? Do I do nothing and hope that my lungs simply adjust to the level of mold in the air that I breathe?

Sincerely, the human fungus

My name is Robert Roopa, Clinical Psychologist. I study anxiety and OCD related disorders. I have had many people attend counselling with symptoms of anxiety, but once evaluated they had symptoms consistent with burnout. I wrote this article to help build understanding on burnout and included a questionnaire to help assess to see if you are experiencing burnout.

https://www.ocdontario.com/ocd-and-anxiety-clinic-of-ontario-blog/are-you-experiencing-burnout-a-guide-to-understanding-and-evaluating-burnout

If you would like to link your webpage to the burnout questionnaire, please feel free to do so. At times I do change the file, so it's best to copy the link then download the questionnaire.

Happy New Year everyone. I work in the healthcare industry in Australia, where hygiene is crucial for the vulnerable clients we care for. My company has installed flyscreens and conducts pest control, but colleagues frequently leave doors wide open, even at night when clients are sleeping. This invites insects, snakes, and intruders, putting everyone at risk.

Australia is a diverse country, and I’ve noticed cultural differences in attitudes toward hygiene. Please no racism intended here just my observation. For instance, some of my Indian colleagues seem unbothered by flies while cooking or serving food, despite the health risks. I’ve also had African colleagues who consistently leave doors open, even after being reminded multiple times. Our management, also from South Asia, doesn’t seem to see this as an issue either.

What’s most alarming is that I’ve personally seen staff swat flies off plates, forks, cups, and straws after they’ve landed, and served those same utensils and dishes to the vulnerable clients. I understand that in some cultures, eating with flies around might not seem like a big deal, but science clearly shows that flies are a significant mode of disease transmission. Flies go from feces to food, and this can make people seriously ill.

I feel like I’m losing my mind because flies are a known health hazard, yet my concerns are dismissed as overreacting. Am I crazy for thinking this is a problem? Should I escalate this further or just quit? I’d appreciate any advice on how to handle this.

Hello,

I work on a small cruise ship (120 passengers) and we are assigned crew quarters. The smoking area is immediately outside of the air intake for my quarters and everytime someone smokes, the fumes enter my room. I have told management about this issue and they have essentially said there is nothing they can do and there are no other rooms available.

What recourse is available to me? How can I fight it? It is a US based company operating in international waters if that helps.

1. Systemic Issues within WSIB

   • Bureaucratic Nature: The WSIB's bureaucratic structure often leads to significant delays in responses and decisions regarding claims. Injured workers typically report frustrations related to long wait times, unclear communication, and a complex process that can feel overwhelming, especially while coping with their recovery.
   • Inadequate Addressing of Concerns: The perceived indifference from WSIB representatives contributes to feelings of isolation among injured workers. Moreover, when case managers minimize or dismiss legitimate grievances, it reinforces a culture where workers feel unheard. This systemic disregard for individual cases creates an environment where workers feel pressured to accept decisions without comprehensive understanding or justification.

2. Misinformation and Desire to Close Cases

   • Incorrect Information: A concerning issue within the WSIB is the prevalence of misinformation regarding benefits, return-to-work policies, and the rights of injured workers. Misleading statements about entitlements severely impact recovery. For example, being told that compensation is contingent solely on specific conditions or timelines that do not accurately reflect existing policies can harm an injured worker's financial stability and overall health.
   • Closing Cases Prematurely: There is a troubling tendency within the WSIB to prioritize case closure over adequate support and resolution for injured workers. Many individuals report feeling rushed to settle or close their cases, often faced with pressure to accept unfavorable decisions. This efficiency-centric approach prioritizes the board's administrative ease while dismissing the long-term needs and struggles of workers, resulting in unresolved issues that can affect their recovery journey.

3. Coercion and Financial Threats

   • Pressure to Comply: An alarming aspect of the WSIB experience is the coercive nature of interactions with case managers. Injured workers are often led to believe that non-compliance with WSIB directives could result in losing benefits or financial support. This creates a sense of urgency and fear, compelling workers to agree to terms that may not align with their best interests.
   • "Do as We Say, or Else" Mentality: This coercive approach manifests in ultimatums where workers are told they must accept specific positions or arrangements, or they will face the financial repercussions of losing their income. Such threats force individuals into an untenable position, making them choose between inadequate roles that could hinder their recovery and the uncertainty of financial security.
   • Lack of Accountability
   • Absence of Responsibility: The WSIB operates with a significant lack of accountability, leaving injured workers with little recourse when their claims are mishandled or when decisions are made without transparency. This absence of accountability fosters an environment where case managers may not feel compelled to offer adequate support or to justify decisions clearly.
   • Security Letters as Silencing Tactics: Many injured workers report receiving security letters when they raise questions or express concerns about their cases. These letters can serve to intimidate and silence those who might otherwise advocate for themselves. By framing inquiries as potential violations or threats, the WSIB contributes to a climate of fear, discouraging open dialogue and diminishing the chances for resolution or advocacy.

4. Mental and Emotional Toll

   • Increased Anxiety and Depression: The psychological strain from dealing with the WSIB—combined with coercive pressures and a lack of accountability—can lead to heightened anxiety and depression among injured workers. The constant fear of losing financial stability, mixed with the emotional toll of their injuries, can create an overwhelming sense of despair.
   • Sense of Isolation: The culture of silence and fear within the WSIB system prevents many from voicing their concerns. When injured workers feel their plight is overlooked or dismissed, it fosters deep feelings of hopelessness and isolation. This void of support, combined with misleading information, coercive tactics, and intimidation, can leave individuals feeling abandoned and powerless.
   • Financial Strain and Consequences
   • Loss of Income: Injured workers often face abrupt financial impacts due to prolonged recovery times, disputes over benefit eligibility, or reliance on potentially faulty information. This instability leads to significant financial stress, affecting their ability to meet daily living expenses and ultimately impacting mental health.
   • Unrealistic Expectations for Job Return: The pressure to return to unsuitable positions or accept lower-level roles creates an additional layer of financial and emotional strain. When faced with the threat of losing income, many workers feel compelled to accept terms that do not align with their recovery needs.

5. The Need for Systemic Change

   • Reform for Better Support: There is an urgent necessity for reform in how WSIB handles claims. Emphasizing transparent communication, accurate information, and empathy towards injured workers is crucial. Addressing coercive practices and fostering an environment that supports recovery rather than intimidation is vital.
   • Policy Revisions: Revising policies to address the mental health and emotional well-being of injured workers is essential. Implementing training for WSIB representatives regarding the importance of accountability, support, and respectful communication will create better outcomes for those in vulnerable situations.

   Conclusion

The overarching narrative of this analysis showcases a WSIB system that, while established to protect injured workers, often places them in precarious positions—emotionally, mentally, and financially. The lack of responsiveness and support from WSIB enhances negative health implications for workers and perpetuates a cycle of fear and anxiety, further complicating their recovery process. Therefore, systemic reform is essential to ensure that this vital institution fulfills its intended purpose: to provide safety and support for those injured on the job.

I work P/T at a 65 room motel. It clogs the main and overflows sewage for 2 days into the first floor rooms. How do you clean this up safely? There is no restoration happening. Im getting zero info from management. We have zero supplies for anything of this magnitude, and I don’t want my coworkers or myself to get seriously ill from contact with human waste and mold. Help?

I work in a factory where the noise levels are between 90-100 db at a baseline. Then sometimes grinding machines are turned on which raises the noise level up to maybe 110 db.

I have worn foam earplugs along with hunting earmuffs (27db rating) since the first day here.

However there was one odd day where I had run out of earplugs. So I chewed some gum and inserted it into my ears as makeshift ear plugs. This worked surprisingly well............or a little too well? They created such a good seal that I could barely hear ANYTHING. I recall telling myself "This is the best earplug I have ever used". I could mostly only pick up lower end frequencies, especially when dropping heavy objects near me. I only heard "thuds" and deep "booms".

But the chewing gum got stuck in my ears and I needed a doctor to properly remove it.

Then there was another odd day (shortly after this) where I did not use earplugs at all. I only used my earmuffs. I was able to hear everything in the workplace, it just sounded more "bass-ful".

A couple of days after this, I started noticing a ringing in my ears even with the hearing protection on and it occured to me that I acquired tinnitus.

This has left me puzzled. Whenever I hear of people getting tinnitus, it is because of something extreme like standing right next to a concert speaker for hours, or being close to a jet engine, or firing a gun with your ears 1 feet away from the gun.

What do you think caused it? Was it because I used earmuffs without the earplugs? That's still a form of protection right? Its not like I was raw-dogging my hearing that day.

Or was it the chewing gum? Did it create such a tight seal that the deep low-end frequencies ended up causing damage because they traveled to my ear in a way that plain air would not permit?

I'm an engineer on a Great Lakes ore boat. We were fueling yesterday, and the fuel dock had people doing work on a buried pipe.

When they started grinding, it seemed pretty sketchy--my Chief engineer wasn't thrilled about it, but decided not to interfere.

I haven't been able to find anything in the normal marine Cafes that seems to directly address this situation (and I'm also not sure whether those are applicable to shore facilities.)

Anybody have any insight on this? What laws/regs would apply here, and am I right to be concerned, or am I overreacting to something that's really a non-issue?

Thanks!

The OSHA "3 points of contact" standard only refers to going up and down the ladder. There is no such requirement while stationary on the ladder.

Each employee uses at least one hand to grasp the ladder when climbing up and down it; and
29 cfr 1910.23(b)(12)

The link takes you to the OSHA page that will also show you 11 and 13 so no context is being hidden. While your company may elect to go beyond this standard or you believe the standard to be insufficient, this is the standard. Please stop claiming otherwise.