Unionized workplaces are consistently safer than non-union workplaces, and there is a reason for that. When workers have a strong collective voice through their union, they are empowered to identify hazards, raise concerns, and ensure that employers take safety seriously.
Health and Safety: A Core Value
For generations, working people have understood a simple truth: every worker deserves to return home safe and healthy at the end of the day. For members of PPWC Local 15, health and safety is not just a workplace policy—it is a fundamental union value. The Public and Private Workers of Canada (PPWC) was built on the belief that protecting workers’ lives, well-being, and dignity must always come before profit.
Across Canada and around the world, unions like the PPWC have played a critical role in making workplaces safer.
Through collective bargaining, the PPWC has helped establish clear health and safety protections that benefit all workers. These include strong safety procedures, clear reporting mechanisms for hazards, proper training, and the right to refuse unsafe work without fear of retaliation.
The Union Difference in Workplace Safety
Unionized workplaces are consistently safer than non-union workplaces, and there is a reason for that. When workers have a strong collective voice through their union, they are empowered to identify hazards, raise concerns, and ensure that employers take safety seriously.
Workers Looking Out for Workers
Through collective bargaining, the PPWC has helped establish clear health and safety protections that benefit all workers. These include strong safety procedures, clear reporting mechanisms for hazards, proper training, and the right to refuse unsafe work without fear of retaliation.
Worker Health and Safety Come First
At PPWC Local 15, members are encouraged to speak up about hazards, participate in safety discussions, and support fellow workers in maintaining a safe workplace. Joint labour-management health and safety committees play a key role in identifying risks and developing practical solutions to address them.
Democratic Decision Making
Committees allow workers themselves—those who know the job best—to have a direct voice in safety decisions. When workers are involved in shaping safety practices, the result is a stronger and more effective safety culture.
A Long History of Fighting for Safer Workplaces
The progress made in workplace safety over the past century did not happen by accident. It happened because unions organized and demanded better conditions. From pushing for protective equipment and proper training to advocating for stronger workplace safety laws, unions have consistently been at the forefront of protecting workers’ lives.
Work Shouldn’t Hurt
Today, labour organizations continue to fight for improvements such as better mental health protections, stronger enforcement of safety regulations, and improved protections for workers in high-risk industries.
Continuing the Commitment
For PPWC Local 15, the commitment to health and safety never stops. As workplaces evolve and new technologies and processes are introduced, safety standards must evolve as well. The union remains committed to ongoing training, strong worker participation, and constant vigilance when it comes to protecting members.
OH&S Committee
Committee works with to foster a collaborative, positive safety culture by identifying hazards, recommending solutions, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
Barry Touzin
Co-Chair
Fred Hill
Matt Draper
Chris Lafaut
Rhys Beck
P&R
Barry Christie
Lab Dayshift
