Lung Cancer Awareness Month
2024-11-01 08:00 - 2024-11-30 17:00 (America/Toronto)
At OHCOW, we are working to make tools accessible to those who risk lung disease and cancer due to hazardous exposure in the workplace.
Check out the Silica Control Tool, created for the construction industry and adapted for Ontario workers.
Don’t miss a session of our Occ-tober and Beyond Webinar Series! See more about Lung Cancer Awareness Month.
More links and resources to come, please check back and stay tuned to our social media channels as we provide more information throughout the month of November.

MOVEMBER: Men's Health Month
2024-11-01 08:00 - 2024-11-30 17:00
The month of November is referred to as “MOVEMBER” because men are encouraged to grow a moustache as a symbol for better men’s health, to draw attention to the issues and start important conversations. Check out the Canadian web site for MO-VEMBER here. It includes information and details about events such as a 60 KM walk to help with the goal of awareness of a topic that is too often overlooked.
While the tone is playful, the situation is serious. Rising rates of testicular and prostate cancer, suicide and depression, and reluctance to attend to health matters means many Canadian men are not achieving their optimal health. In fact, on average, they live four fewer years than Canadian women, for a number of occupational and non-occupational reasons, according to Public Health Canada, This is a time to discuss and do something about it — and to make such discussions the norm.
In the Workplace
Great impact can be made in the workplace, as men at risk of injury on the job or occupational illnesses can research and share information. Men aren’t always keen on opening up conversations with health and safety representatives and supervisors about their concerns. Let’s start! Anyone who suspects an illness, including cancer, might be work-related, can contact OHCOW for advisement. Check out our Work-Related Cancers page for more information. The Occupational Cancer Research Centre (OCRC) features a Disease Surveillance System Data tool which helps show relative risk for a variety of sectors and exposures.
It is known that men are less likely to seek support for mental health, depression and emotional distress. In 2023, research was done specifically on the mental health of workers in the skilled trades, and found a connection between physical safety on the job and mental health. OHCOW’s StressAssess Survey is a valuable tool for analyzing psychosocial stressors in the workplace. The Opioid-Related Harms among Ontario Workers project is a four-year collaboration between the Institute for Work & Health (IWH) and the OCRC at Ontario Health. It addresses the connection between male-dominated trades and opioid use.
Let’s Keep it on the Radar
In 2017, The provincial government started a partnership with The Canadian Men’s Health Foundation to promote healthier lifestyles for men. The Canadian Institutes of Health Research published information about the health of boys and men in Canada, a 2021 study that looks at mental health and wellness, violence, disease, accident rate, and physical activity.
Let’s keep issues surrounding men’s health on our radar all year long, starting this month with MO-VEMBER!

Occ|tober and Beyond 2024 Webinar Series
2024-11-07 12:00 - 13:30
12:00pm – 1:30pm EST
Occ|tober & Beyond: Occupational Illness and Disease Prevention
What you can’t see can still harm you!
Silica is a naturally occurring mineral that can be found anywhere. While safe when used solid form like in bricks, drywall, countertops, when made airborne, such as by chipping, sanding, or grinding, it can cause fatal lung diseases even when exposures are so low that you can barely see it. The Silica Control Tool, developed in British Columba, was revised by OHCOW last year. This year, it’s use has expanded into New Brunswick. The Silica Tool’s technology is being adapted to other exposures such as welding. Join this session to learn about how the Silica Control Tool is rolling out across Canada and being adapted to other exposures!
Speakers: Dr. Melanie Gorman-Ng, B.C.C.S.A.; Johannes Doemer – WorkSafeNB Occupational Hygienist, Victoria Arrandale – UofT Associate Director.
REGISTER

Remembrance Day
2024-11-11

Occ|tober and Beyond Webinar Series 2024
2024-11-14 12:00 - 13:30
12:00pm – 1:30pm EST
Occ|tober & Beyond: Occupational Illness and Disease Prevention
Can you assess exposures you can’t measure?
Occupational hygienists are experts at measuring exposures and interpreting risk based on exposure limits. But what do we do when we can’t make a measurement, or the chemical doesn’t have an exposure limit? Learn in this session how exposure control banding is a rapidly evolving semi-quantitative process to recognize and control the risk of hazards when measurements and limits are not available.
Speakers: Alex Mercer, MSc, CIH, ROH, President of CRBOH and Operations Manager at JADA Solutions (HSE) + more!
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World COPD Day
2024-11-15
World COPD Day is organized by the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) in collaboration with health care professionals and COPD patient groups throughout the world. Its aim is to raise awareness, share knowledge, and discuss ways to reduce the burden of COPD worldwide.
See the international web site.
Check out the Silica Control Tool, created for the construction industry and adapted for Ontario workers. Silica exposure in the construction environment poses many health risks including lung disease.
Don’t miss a session of our Occ-tober and Beyond Webinar Series!

Occ|tober and Beyond Webinar Series 2024
2024-11-21 12:00 - 13:30
12:00pm – 1:30pm EST
Occ|tober & Beyond: Occupational Illness and Disease Prevention
How can your respirator stop things smaller than the filter?
Last updated in 2018 and reaffirmed in 2023, the CSA Standard CAN/CSA Z94.4 (Selection, Use, and Care of Respirators) was amended to include a new section on respiratory protection against bio-aerosols. This addition includes a risk assessment for bio-aerosol protection using respirators. Learn how to assess the hazards of bio-aerosols and select the appropriate respiratory protection.
Speakers: Dr. Kevin Hedges, PhD, COH, CIH, Fellow of AIOH, OHCOW; Dr. Simon Smith, Retired from 3M, Member of CSA Committees, and Renowned Respirator Expert.
REGISTER

16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence 2024
2024-11-25 08:00 - 2024-12-10 17:00
For this important 16 day event, the Government of Canada’s theme for 2024 is Come Together, Act Now. It emphasizes how crucial it is to involve everyone in Canada – particularly men and boys – in changing social norms, attitudes and behaviours that contribute to gender-based violence. It is also a call to action urging all of us to recognize the signs of gender-based violence and to reach out for support, for ourselves or loved ones.
Please go to OHCOW’s page that features a video to draw attention to the problem of women meeting with violence whether at home, in public places, or in the workplace.
See OHCOW Page

Occ|tober and Beyond Webinar Series 2024
2024-11-28 12:00 - 13:30
12:00pm – 1:30pm EST
Occupational Illness and Disease Prevention
Can we prevent what we can’t see?
Occupational illnesses are conditions that usually require continued exposures over time to develop. They may even result from a combination of environmental and work-related factors. Ontario’s Health and Safety Associations are working to increase knowledge of various workplace exposures, which can not always be seen! In this session, learn how Ontario’s Health and Safety System is helping to identify hazards and implement effective control measures to prevent occupational diseases.
Speakers: Kelly Fernandes – WSPS Specialized Consultant; Steve Gore – WSPS Industrial Hygiene Specialist; Jasmine Kalsi, ROH, Infrastructure Health & Safety Association.
VIEW PLAYLIST FOR THIS SERIES

International Day of Persons with Disabilities
2024-12-03
More than 6.2 million Canadians have a disability – and many have disabilities that are not visible. Persons with disabilities face discrimination, incur many additional expenses, and often encounter barriers to finding meaningful and well-paid work. We recognize that disabilities are diverse in nature – whether physical, sensory, cognitive, or mental health-related – and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. But whatever a person’s needs may be, the Government of Canada is committed to making our country more accessible and more inclusive for everyone.
Go to Page

National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women
2024-12-06
It has been over 30 years since the murder of 14 young women at Polytechnique Montréal (December 6, 1989). This act of violent misogyny shook our country and led Parliament to designate December 6 as The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. As we mourn their loss and remember their lives, we reaffirm our commitment to fight the hatred that led to this tragedy, and the misogyny that still exists today.
There is a website that commemorates the lives lost on that tragic day, and provides other information on protecting the rights of women and minorities.
GO TO PAGE

Human Rights Day
2024-12-10
Human Rights Day is celebrated every year on December 10 — the day on which the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948.
The Declaration states that each person is entitled to fundamental rights, including the right to equality, and the right to life, liberty and security of the person. It also recognizes the right to freedom of religion and speech and the right to participate in the cultural life of the community.
For more information see Canada’s web page for Human Rights Day.
GO TO PAGE

Christmas Day
2024-12-25

Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month
2025-01-01 08:00 - 2025-01-31 17:00
January is Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month
Beginning in 2024, January is known as “Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month” throughout Canada. Health Canada and key stakeholders will raise awareness on this topic through social media campaigns and targeted events.
See OHCOW’s page about new information and legislation surrounding the work of Firefighters.
In June of 2023, the enactment of Bill C-224, A National Framework on Cancers Linked to Firefighting provides for the development of a national framework designed to raise awareness of cancers linked to firefighting with the goal of improving access for firefighters to cancer prevention and treatment. The Canadian Association of Fire chiefs has more information.
In partnership with the Firefighter Cancer Support Network (FCSN), the International Association of Firefighters IAFF designated January as Fire Fighter Cancer Awareness Month to provide fire fighters the necessary tools and guidance to develop life-saving protocols for cancer prevention and to support those with a cancer diagnosis within their departments.
Stay tuned for more information to come.

Bell Let's Talk Day
2025-01-22
Bell Let’s Talk Day 2025 to Prioritize Youth Mental Health as Young Canadians Face Growing Crisis
Bell unveiled MHRC’s new report on youth mental health and announced it will prioritize youth mental health on Bell Let’s Talk Day (January 22, 2025) and launch a text-to-donate campaign with 100% of funds raised going to six youth mental health providers.

Heart Month
2025-02-01 00:00 - 2025-02-28 23:59
February is Heart Month
February is Heart Month is an annual opportunity for individuals, groups, and businesses to raise funds and awareness for the University of Ottawa Heart Institute.
In 2024, our community raised over 1.25 million dollars, smashing past records thanks to our incredible match sponsors and donors. We are grateful to have the support of over one hundred community initiatives throughout February.
Go to Website

Black History Month
2025-02-01 - 2025-02-28
February is Black History Month
Every February, people across Canada participate in Black History Month events and festivities that honour the legacy of Black people in Canada and their communities.
The 2024 theme for Black History Month is: “Black Excellence: A Heritage to Celebrate; a Future to Build”. This theme celebrates the rich past and present contributions and accomplishments of Black people in Canada, while aspiring to embrace new opportunities for the future.
Go to Website

Psychology Month
2025-02-01 08:00 - 2025-02-28 17:00
Psychology Month is celebrated every February to highlight the contributions of Canadian psychologists and to show Canadians how psychology works to help – people live healthy and happy lives, their communities flourish, their employers create better workplaces, and their governments develop effective policies.

World Cancer Day
2025-02-04
The Importance of Knowledge Translation
Join us for a special World Cancer Day webinar, hosted by Occupational Health Clinics for Ontario Workers (OHCOW) and Occupational Cancer Research Centre (OCRC), as we explore the differing cancer risks among male and female workers in Ontario, Canada. This event will focus on the importance of knowledge translation—how we can effectively communicate occupational cancer research to raise awareness and drive change.
Experts will discuss the latest findings on cancer risks in the workplace and share strategies for improving awareness and prevention through knowledge-sharing resources and tools. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how collaboration and innovation can drive real change in protecting workers from occupational cancer.
REGISTER

RSI Day Webinar Series 2025 Week 1
2025-02-07 10:00 - 12:30
Clinical Insights & Applying New Technology
February 7, 2025 – WEEK 1
10:00 AM – 10:15 AM
Welcome Message and Overview
Trevor Schell – Coordinator
10:15 AM – 10:45 AM
Osteoarthritis of the Carpometacarpal Joint (Thumb)
Cynthia Arnold – OHCOW Physician, Trevor Schell – OHCOW Ergonomist
CMC Joint Osteoarthritis is one of the most common forms of osteoarthritis affecting, 11% of men and 33% of women, yet the occupational risk factors are often overlooked for the development of this condition. This session examines the anatomy, causes, symptoms, diagnosis and prevention of this disorder.
DOWNLOAD PDF SLIDES
10:45 AM – 11:15 AM
Osteoarthritis of the Hip
Melissa Statham – OHCOW Ergonomist
Pravesh Jugnundan – OHCOW Physician, Melissa Statham – OHCOW Ergonomist
Osteoarthritis of the hip is one of the most common forms of osteoarthritis affecting up to 24.2% of the population. This session examines the anatomy, symptoms causes, and prevention of this disorder.
DOWNLOAD PDF SLIDES
11:15 AM – 12:00 PM
Implementing Markerless Motion Capture Technology for Ergonomics Assessments
Dennis Larson – Postdoctoral Researcher
Recent advancements in computer vision technology are rapidly changing how we conduct musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) risk assessments in the field. Now with just the tap of a button on our smartphones, we can easily record videos of workplace activities that can uploaded and analyzed by computer vision tools to assess postures and movements involved in completing workplace tasks. However, computer vision may not be a one-size-fits-all solution and both researchers and companies are working to understand how to best implement and interpret results from these technologies to optimize their MSD prevention efforts. Drawing on the findings of a recent study we conducted at the University of Waterloo and other related research, we will provide evidence-based insights to guide best practices for integrating computer vision-based MSD assessment technology into workplace ergonomics and health and safety programs.
DOWNLOAD PDF SLIDES
12:00 PM – 12:30 PM
Q&A
SEE YOUTUBE PLAYLIST

2/11 Day
2025-02-11
On 211 Day, February 11th (2/11), United Way Centraide, 211 service providers across North America and their supporters use the opportunity to raise awareness of this valuable service in the community.
Go to Web Site
211 Central

RSI Day Webinar Series: Reality Check 2025 - Hazard Mitigation
2025-02-14 10:00 - 12:30
GO TO PLAYLIST

10:00 AM – 10:15 AM
Welcome Message and Overview

Trevor Schell – Coordinator

10:15 AM – 11:00 AM
Heat Stress Management: A new toolkit for Ontario Workplaces

André Gauvin – OHCOW Occupational Hygienist
Heat stress is a significant and year-round physical hazard in many indoor, outdoor and underground occupations that deal with either local or environmental heat sources. To make matters worse, its effects may be compounded when personal protective equipment (PPE) is involved. Climate change further compounds the issue; the increasing frequency of extreme heat days, wildfires, and poor air quality exposes outdoor workers to an ever-growing risk of negative health impacts. The impacts of heat stress are serious and is globally recognized. It is critical to address this hazard to protect employees and your business from negative health effects, lost productivity, and employee morale. This session will discuss the hazards of working in the heat, guide you through Ontario’s updated Heat Stress Toolkit, and talk about how these tools can support you in reducing risk.

11:00 AM – 11:45 AM
Ergonomics and Manual Materials Handling: Enhancing Safety and Efficiency

Daryl Stephenson – OHCOW Ergonomist, Andrew Flanagan – OHCOW Ergonomist

This presentation explores the critical role of ergonomics in manual materials handling to prevent workplace injuries and improve productivity. We’ll discuss key ergonomic principles and strategies for designing tasks that minimize physical strain. Additionally, we’ll highlight how the Liberty Mutual manual material handling tables can be effectively utilized to assess risk factors in manual handling tasks. These tables offer evidence-based guidelines for identifying hazardous lifting, pushing and pulling activities, and provide valuable insights into safe weight limits. By integrating these tools with proper ergonomic practices, we can foster a safer, more efficient work environment.

11:45 AM – 12:15 PM
Q&A

RSI Day Webinar Series: Key Topics in Occupational Ergonomics 1
2025-02-21 10:00 - 12:30
Key Topics in Occupational Ergonomics 1
February 21 – WEEK 3
10:00 AM – 10:15 AM
Welcome message and Overview
Trevor Schell – Coordinator
10:15 AM – 11:00 AM
Creating and Fostering Inclusive Work Environments to Prevent MSDs Among Older Workers
Dr Behdin Nowrouzi-Kia
This presentation will explore the definition of older workers, typically those aged 50 and above, and the unique challenges they face. It will identify the risks and hazards related to musculoskeletal disorders (MSD). Finally, it will propose solutions and strategies to prevent and mitigate against MSD. By addressing these objectives, we aim to create a safer and more supportive work environment for older workers.
DOWNLOAD PDF SLIDES

LINK TO WEBINAR

RSI Day Webinar Series - Key topics in Occupational Ergonomics 2
2025-02-28 10:00 - 12:30
Key topics in Occupational Ergonomics 2
February 28 – WEEK 4
10:00 AM – 10:15 AM
Welcome Message and Overview
Trevor Schell – coordinator
10:15 AM – 11:00 AM
Visual Ergonomics: The Relationship Between Vision and Office Ergonomics
Dwayne Fuchs – OHCOW Ergonomist, Dr. Joe Valente – Optometrist
OHCOW Ergonomist Dwayne Fuchs (R.Kin.) along with Optometrist Dr. Joe Valente will discuss the relationship between vision and computer use in the office. It will include the following: Computer Monitor/Screen Ergonomics; Office Lighting and Glare; Common Visual Complaints and Conditions; Differences between Corrected and Non-corrected vision; and Recommendations for change based upon individual visual requirements.
DOWNLOAD PDF SLIDES
11:00 AM – 11:45 AM
Review of the Quick Exposure Check (QEC) Reference Guide
Trevor Schell – OHCOW Ergonomist, Melissa Statham – OHCOW Ergonomist
The QEC is perhaps one of the most versatile and user friendly workplace hazard identification tools. It was designed to be quick, easy to use and not require extensive training before use. This session will cover an overview of the QEC tool and case studies demonstrating its use.
DOWNLOAD PDF SLIDES
QEC REFERENCE GUIDE
QEC DOWNLOAD PAGE
11:45 AM – 12:15 PM
Q & A VIEW PLAYLIST

Kidney Health Month
2025-03-01 08:00 - 2025-03-31 17:00
March is Kidney Health Month in Canada. If you haven’t yet considered the way your mighty kidneys impact your overall health, now is the time.
Kidneys are often misunderstood and their value to overall health underestimated. Kidneys are vital organs with an important role, including removing waste from the body, helping to make red blood cells, and regulating blood pressure. Diabetes and high blood pressure are the leading causes of kidney disease, and heart disease can be both a cause and a complication for those living with kidney disease. See the Kidney.ca website for more information.
GO TO WEBSITE

World Hearing Day
2025-03-03
This year’s theme builds upon the 2024 focus on changing mindsets towards ear and hearing care. We invite individuals of all ages to empower themselves to ensure healthy ears and hearing for themselves and others. This campaign aims to inspire behaviour change to protect hearing from loud sounds, prevent hearing loss, check hearing regularly, use hearing devices if needed, and support those living with hearing loss. Empowered individuals can drive change within themselves and in society at large. See the website here.
Key messages for 2025:

By 2030, over 500 million people are expected to have disabling hearing loss requiring rehabilitation.
Over one billion young people face the risk of permanent hearing loss due to prolonged exposure to loud sounds during recreational pastimes such as listening to music and video gameplay.
How we hear in the future depends on how we care for our ears today as many cases of hearing loss can be avoided through the adoption of safe listening and good hearing care practices. For those living with hearing loss, early identification and access to timely rehabilitation are essential to achieving their highest potential.
You can take steps today to ensure good hearing health throughout life.

International Women's Day 2025
2025-03-08
Imagine a gender equal world. A world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. A world that’s diverse, equitable, and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated. Together we can forge women’s equality. Collectively for #IWD2025 we can all #AccelerateAction. See website here.

Brain Awareness Week 2025
2025-03-10 08:00 - 2025-03-16 17:00
Brain Awareness Week is the global campaign to foster public enthusiasm and support for brain science. Every March, participants host imaginative activities in their communities that share the wonders of the brain, and the impact brain science has on our everyday lives.
Event organizers include colleges and universities, hospitals, medical research facilities, K-12 schools, advocacy groups, outreach organizations, professional associations, government agencies, corporations, and more.
GO TO WEBSITE

World Kidney Day
2025-03-14
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is estimated to affect approximately 850 million people worldwide[1]. If left undetected and not treated timely, CKD can progress to kidney failure, leading to severe complications and premature mortality. By 2040, CKD is projected to become the 5th leading cause of years of life lost[2], highlighting the urgent need for global strategies to combat kidney disease.
Populations at high risk for kidney disease should undergo targeted testing.
The major risk factors for kidney disease are:

Diabetes
Hypertension
Cardiovascular disease
Obesity
Family history of kidney disease.

Go to website for more information.
SEE WEBSITE

National Inhalant and Poisons Awareness Week 2025
2025-03-17 08:00 - 2025-03-22 17:00
March 17-22
The third week in March is National Inhalant and Poisons Awareness Week. This prevention week focuses on providing education, resources, and information on risks of poisons and inhalant. Many workplaces have dangers for workers in potentially coming in contact with poisons in its many forms.
What are inhalants?
Although other misused materials can be inhaled, the term inhalants refer to the various substances that people typically take only by inhaling. These substances include:

solvents (liquids that become gas at room temperature)
aerosol sprays
gases
nitrites

One Hit of an Inhalant Can Cause:

Nausea and disorientation
Limb spasms
Loss of consciousness and asphyxiation
Death

More information to come on this topic.
