The Workers Compensation Board (WCB) recently participated in the hands-on training program "Giv'Her The Gears," presented by Green Diamond Equipment, the PEI Agriculture Sector Council, the Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council, and the Sustainable Canadian Agriculture Partnership.

This program aims to empower women in agriculture by addressing barriers and fostering leadership opportunities.

“The program is a great event for women in agriculture to receive hands-on training with equipment in a low-barrier, inclusive and supportive environment,” said Hillary Hayden, the WCB’s Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Farm Safety Specialist.

During the program, Hillary provided participants with comprehensive OHS training, covering the following topics:

• OHS Act and Regulations
• Mechanisms of injury
• Workplace harassment
• Personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Training and record keeping
• Accident reporting and due diligence
 

The program facilitators created a supportive and safe environment, enabling women to gain valuable skills in farm safety, and safe equipment operation practices, while promoting leadership and empowerment in the agricultural sector.

Participants also engaged in practical trainings, such as the use of safety features and devices on farming equipment like tractors and balers.