Workers Compensation Board of Prince Edward Island

Sun Safety PEI

During the summer season, many Island workers spend a significant amount of time working outdoors. As a result daily exposure to the harmful effects of the sun is common. Excessive exposure to UV rays from the sun can cause damage to the skin, eyes, and can also increase the risk of heat stress and heat stroke. Employers and workers must be aware of the risks related to sun exposure and the effective ways to protect themselves.

Skin damage, caused by UV rays, can eventually result in skin cancer. Melanoma skin cancer is the most rapidly increasing cancer in PEI. The rate of this form of cancer has tripled in PEI over the last 30 years. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer, and it’s also one of the most preventable.

Heat stress or heat stroke occurs when our bodies heat up faster than they are able to cool off. Those affected become dehydrated and experience symptoms such as painful muscle cramps, fatigue, headaches, and confusion.

Employers are required to take every reasonable precaution to protect the health and safety of their employees – this extends to encouraging sun safety. Workers can effectively protect themselves from sun related hazards by complying with the employer’s sun safety program and following the resources provided below.

For additional information contact the Occupational Health and Safety Division of the Workers Compensation Board by calling toll free 1-800-237-5049 or 902-368-5680.

May 29, 2023

The WCB launches multi-hazard safety campaign to prevent work-related injuries and illnesses

The Workers Compensation Board (WCB) of PEI is launching a multi-hazard safety campaign on May 29 to remind workers and employers to always take time to work safely around asbestos, when excavating and trenching, and when working at heights. From May 29 to July 31, Islanders will see and hear about the WCB’s “Don’t become the worst-case scenario” campaign on the radio, on posters, on social media, on public transit and on the WCB website. The WCB’s Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Officers and Educational Consultants will also be sharing safety information during work site visits. “There is always time to do the right thing to avoid catastrophic injuries and life altering illnesses that could lead to death,” said Danny Miller, the WCB’s Director of Occupational Health and Safety. “It’s about taking the time to plan construction and renovation with asbestos safety in mind, taking the time to safely prepare sites for excavating and trenching and taking the time for fall protection measures when working at heights. It’s a reminder that no one wants to become the worst-case scenario.” Within the past three years, there have been multiple fines under the Occupational Health and Safety Act for unsafe asbestos management, unsafe work practice while trenching, and working unsafely at heights three metres or more. The fines levied were remitted to the WCB specifically for the purpose of conducting awareness, education, and prevention activities like this campaign. To learn more about workplace hazards and safe practices, please visit wcb.pe.ca The Workers Compensation Board partners with employers and workers in building safe and healthy workplaces and support recovery, if an injury occurs, through the administration of the Workers Compensation Act and the Occupational Health and Safety Act. Urgent workplace health and safety matters can be reported anytime by calling our 24/7 emergency line at 902-628-7513. Aussi disponible en français.

May 25, 2023

Workplace Harassment and Violence workshop

The WCB will hold a safety workshop about Workplace Harassment and Violence on May. 30 at the Loyalist Inn, Summerside, from 9 am to 12 pm. Click here to register and learn more.

View All