OHCOW

National Indigenous History Month
2025-06-01 08:00 - 2025-06-30 17:00 (America/Toronto)
June is National Indigenous History Month in Canada, a time to recognize the rich history, heritage, resilience and diversity of First Nations, Inuit and Métis.
See the Government of Canada’s page acknowledging National Indigenous History month here.
See events that are happening in Toronto here.

Men's Health Month: Never Alone
2025-06-01 08:00 - 2025-06-30 17:00
The Canadian Men’s Health Foundation is marking June 2025, Men’s Health Month, with a campaign entitled, Never Alone. This June, join guys across Canada talking about the tough stuff and getting tools to build better mental health. The 2025 Men’s Health Report contains concerning reports of the health of Canadian men, physically and mentally.
See the webpage here, that has links to a June 12 workshop for men and other resources.
Each year, the week leading up to and including Father’s Day is Men’s Health Week — an excellent opportunity to reflect on and raise awareness about the importance of the health and well-being of Canadian men. Some organizations such as The Canadian Men’s Health Foundation designates the entire month of June as Men’s Health Month. In 2017, The provincial government started a partnership with the Canadian Men’s Health Foundation to promote healthier lifestyles for men. In 2021, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research published information about the health of boys and men in Canada, looking at mental health and wellness, violence, disease, accident rate, and physical activity.
According to Public Health Canada, 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.
In the workplace, 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.
The website Mentell Health is a resource for men to connect, learn and discuss issues around mental health and emotional well being. They also have a page dedicated to Men’s Health Month.
See also Men’s Health Week.

Workplace Mental Health Webinar Series

OHCOW’s Mayday, Mayday Webinar series has featured sessions on mental health in male-dominated trades, such as the 2023 webinar, Crisis Planning for Worker & Responder Mental Health.
See the playlist for the 2025 Mayday, Mayday here.
Additional resources:
Government of Canada
Canadian Mental Health Association

Men's Health Week
2025-06-09 08:00 - 2025-06-15 17:00
Each year, the week leading up to and including Father’s Day is Men’s Health Week — an excellent opportunity to reflect on and raise awareness about the importance of the health and well-being of Canadian men. Some organizations such as The Canadian Men’s Health Foundation designates the entire month of June as Men’s Health Month. In 2017, The provincial government started a partnership with the Canadian Men’s Health Foundation to promote healthier lifestyles for men. In 2021, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research published information about the health of boys and men in Canada, looking at mental health and wellness, violence, disease, accident rate, and physical activity.
According to Public Health Canada, 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.
In the workplace, 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.
The website Mentell Health is a resource for men to connect, learn and discuss issues around mental health and emotional well being. They also have a page dedicated to Men’s Health Month.
OHCOW’s Mayday, Mayday Webinar series has featured sessions on mental health in male-dominated trades, such as the 2023 webinar, Crisis Planning for Worker & Responder Mental Health.
Additional resources:
Government of Canada
Canadian Mental Health Association

National Indigenous Peoples Day
2025-06-21
See the National Indigenous People’s Day page here.

Webinar: Work and Health in Primary Care in Ontario
2025-06-25 12:00 - 13:00
Work and health in Primary Care in Ontario: Improving the recognition and recording of work relatedness
In partnership with Dalhousie University and Praxus Health
Register
This pilot study aims to address gaps in work and health by integrating occupational data collection into primary care through an online questionnaire. This system will simplify the capture and coding of patient occupation, allowing primary care providers (PCPs) to offer more informed advice on occupational health and wellbeing.
The study’s outcomes will include the creation of a large occupational health database and the provision of real-time aggregated occupational information to key stakeholders. If successful, this system could be widely implemented in primary care clinics across the province, enhancing the understanding of occupational health risks, improving patient care, and informing evidence-based employee health policies.
Dr. Anil Adisesh (Dalhousie University): Dr Anil Adisesh is an Associate Professor in the Department of Medicine at Dalhousie University. He is the lead investigator for the study, Work and Health in Primary Care in Ontario: Improving the recognition and recording of work relatedness. Together with Dr Andrea Furlan he is the co-lead of the ECHO OEM telementoring program for primary health-care providers in Ontario, both projects are funded by WSIB Ontario.
Praxus Health Bio: Praxus Health is a Canadian not-for-profit that collaborates with a diverse range of partners to drive meaningful change and improve the health of communities. By connecting diverse sectors, from public to private, Praxus Health strives to solve complex health problems and empower communities to take control of their health. The organization’s work spans multiple health topics including occupational health, primary care innovation, immunization, cancer screening and more!

Uterine Fibroid Awareness Day
2025-07-21
The Canadian organization, the Vivre 100 fibromes association, seeks to improve available information, structures and platforms dedicated to uterine fibroids in Quebec and in Canada, and to improve the medical, social and psychological conditions of those with uterine fibroids. The main objective is to provide better access to information.
vivre100fibromes website
The Workplace and Reproductive Health
The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) has a web page on reproductive health. Reproductive hazards are factors that cause conditions to the reproductive organs and can interfere with a person’s ability to procreate.
In most cases, fibroids are extremely small and barely noticeable. The condition should be monitored as they can expand in size over time and in some cases lead to infertility, chronic pain, and cancer.
Reproductive health issues are usually not work related. However, exposure to metals, solvents, pesticides, radiation, viruses, and extreme stress are all factors that can effect reproductive health.
If you think workplace conditions may have caused your fibroids or other reproductive health issues, contact us.

International Youth Day
2025-08-12
The theme of International Youth Day (IYD) 2025, Local Youth Actions for the Sustainable Development Goals and Beyond, highlighting the unique role of youth in translating global ambitions into community-driven realities.
They bring creativity, insight, and deep community ties that help bridge the gap between policy and practice. With over 65 per cent of SDG targets linked to local governance, youth engagement is not a luxury—it is a necessity.
This year’s IYD will also underscore the essential role of local and regional governments. Being the closest to the communities they serve, they are uniquely positioned to create inclusive policy environments, allocate resources, and establish mechanisms for youth participation in local planning and decision-making.
Find out More

Advancing Vibration Risk Management Webinar
2025-08-19 10:30 - 12:00
MLITSD Northern Region Mining Initiative on HAV
You’re invited to attend a free webinar on Tuesday, August 19 at 10:30 am ET, hosted by Ontario’s health and safety system partners.
In 2025, the MLITSD is launching a focused initiative on hand-arm vibration (HAV) exposure in Northern Ontario’s mining sector—and employers need to be prepared. This session will introduce the goals of the initiative and explain how HAV fits into the broader picture of mining risk management.
HAV-related health effects fall within the category of occupational illnesses with specific reporting requirements under the OHSA, but historically overlooked and misunderstood within the broader context of workplace hazard assessment and control.
Like other physical hazards, HAV exposure can—and should—be assessed using screening tools and measurement against established standards. Learn how Ontario’s health and safety system partners—including WSN, WSPS, CROSH, and OHCOW—are supporting this initiative and how they can help to “shake off” the risks of this often-overlooked hazard.
REGISTER TODAY
Help make your workplace safer and register today!
For more information, contact WSPS at 1-877-494-9777.

Prostate Cancer Awareness Month
2025-09-01 08:00 - 2025-09-30 17:00
September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. While progress has been made, prostate cancer is still the most commonly diagnosed cancer among men in Canada. This is a month to join together to transform the future of prostate cancer for the 27,900 men in Canada expected to be diagnosed this year. Prostate cancer is one of the least preventable cancers, making advancements in prostate cancer treatment so important.
https://cancer.ca/en/about-us/prostate-cancer

Concussion Awareness Month
2025-09-01 08:00 - 2025-09-30 17:00
RSI Day 2023 Week 1 – Concussions in the Workplace
See a video and slide deck on this important topic.
This presentation will discuss the following topics:

Information about concussions and post-concussion symptom
Long term effects
Recovery and return to work
Underreporting, workplace factors, raising awareness about concussions in the workplace, and prevention of workplace hazards.

The goal is to raise awareness about concussions and to promote steps to take action to prevent concussions in the workplace.
RSI Day 2023 Week 1 – Concussions in the Workplace

After a Concussion: Return to Work Strategies
https://parachute.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Concussion-ReturnToWork-UA.pdf

Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month 2025
2025-09-01 08:00 - 2025-09-30 17:00
According to the Canadian Cancer Society:

Ovarian cancer can start in the cells of an ovary, but the most common type is thought to start in the cells of a fallopian tube. Fallopian tube and primary peritoneal cancers are staged and treated the same as epithelial ovarian cancer.
Risks for epithelial ovarian cancer include having a family history of ovarian cancer and BRCA gene mutations. Fallopian tube and primary peritoneal cancer share many of the same risks as epithelial ovarian cancer.

For more information:
Ovarian Cancer Canada
Ovarian Cancer Canada Walk of Hope
Occupational Hazards for Ovarian Cancer
Every year in September, the Ovarian Cancer Canada Walk of Hope takes place. It’s the only walk in the country that is solely dedicated to transforming the lives of those facing ovarian cancer, improving the reality of life with the disease, and working towards a future in which the disease is ultimately eradicated.
This year’s Ovarian Cancer Canada Walk of Hope raised almost $1,500,000 for Ovarian Cancer Research. The commitment sends a powerful message: we will not rest until women are able to live their lives freely, fully, and uninhibited by ovarian cancer. By driving research innovation and sharing crucial knowledge, we’re empowering Canadians to take control of their health today while we invest/build a future that is free of this disease.

Speaker Series | Proactive choices: Preventing hereditary breast and ovarian cancer

Wednesday, September 24, 2025
Virtual | 6:00 p.m. ET – 7:00 p.m. ET
3:00 p.m. PT – 4:00 p.m. PT

REGISTER

World First Aid Day
2025-09-13
World First Aid Day is a global observance held on the second Saturday in September. It was instituted by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) in 2000 and has been celebrated each year ever since.
The term “first aid” refers to the help available to anyone with a sudden injury or illness. Its main purpose is to preserve life and prevent exacerbation of the condition. This is not always done by medical staff. In emergency situations, ordinary people often have to provide first aid to save someone’s life. First aid does not require prior knowledge and can be improvised. However, if a first aid person does not know what to do, they may hurt themselves rather than help. This is why the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies encourages everyone to receive basic first aid training or at least educate themselves using all available reliable sources.
World First Aid Day aims to raise awareness of how first aid can prevent injuries and save lives in crises and everyday situations, as well as enhance access to first aid. The events and activities on this day focus on first aid training. Each year, a new general theme for the day is chosen, and participants are encouraged to plan events around the current year’s theme.
Recent polling by the Canadian Red Cross shows that nearly 40 per cent of Canadians say they have been in an emergency situation where they have had to perform first aid; however, only 18 per cent are currently certified. so ensure you have the skills needed to save lives when an emergency happens.
Info about first aid courses:
Canadian Health Care Provider Training Institute
First Aid 4U

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
2025-09-30
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a day to remember, learn about and reflect on the ongoing legacy of Indian Residential Schools.
September 30, 2021, marked the first observance of a National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, following the identification of potential unmarked burial sites at the former Kamloops Indian Residential School in British Columbia. The date continues to be recognized as a day to solemnly reflect on the past for those affected by the Residential School system.
more info:
Government of Ontario page
Government of Canada Page
Orange Shirt Day

Global Ergonomics Month 2025
2025-10-01 08:00 - 2025-10-31 17:00
Human-Centred Design
Celebrated in October each year, Global Ergonomics Month is an international outreach campaign promoting human-centred design through the science, application and profession of ergonomics or human factors. These disciplines are focused on optimizing human well-being as well as overall system performance by proactively designing work and work systems to fit the people interfacing with them in ways that improve efficiency, productivity, health, safety and comfort. Ergonomics is ultimately good for business and good for people. See the content from previous years of Global Ergonomics Month here.

Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS)
This summer and fall, OHCOW has partnered with the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD), Workplace Safety North (WSN), and Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS) for a Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) initiative. Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) is a condition that can affect the vascular, neurological and muscular systems of the hands. Regular exposure to vibrating hand tools/equipment (dependent upon the magnitude, frequency, and duration) such as jackhammers, chisels, chainsaws, sanders, grinders, drills etc., increases the risk of developing HAVS. Some of the trades/industries in which workers are at risk include construction, forestry, foundry, assembly manufacturing, mining and agriculture.

Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD) Mining HAV Initiative
In 2025 the MLITSD is launching a focused initiative on hand-arm vibration (HAV) exposure in Northern Ontario’s mining sector—and employers need to be prepared. Use the QR code or go to the link to see list of resources.

Ergonomic Resources

Video
See the new three-part video playlist regarding HAVS.

Info Sheet
See page and download PDF.

Podcasts
Back to School: Ergonomics for Educators and Students
Everything from carrying a backpack to eyestrain from screens to school desks can cause injury. Get the facts with this detailed info sheet. Back to School: Ergonomics for Students and Educators This info sheet accompanies the Oh-Pods Podcast on the same topic.

Hear Podcast

Ergonomics of Fall Yard/Garden Chores: Preparation for Winter
Many yardwork chores may lead to the development of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) if done incorrectly. Get some useful information about preventing injury with this info sheet. Download PDF: Ergonomics of Fall Yard/ Garden Chores: Preparation for Winter

Hear Podcast

Ergonomics and Sleep Podcasts
How you sleep and factors like mattress quality can affect your health and sometimes result in musculoskeletal disorders. Download PDF: Ergonomics and Sleep

This info sheet accompanies a 2-part OH-PODS podcast. Tune in to hear!

PART ONE
PART TWO

Office Ergo e-Learning

CSA Office Ergonomics Standard (Z412-17), our new Office Ergonomics learning resource reflects changes in the office environment (i.e. multiple monitors, tablet use, remote workstations, etc.), as well as continuing to address ergonomic concerns related to the traditional office setting. Designed with independent modules for ease of use, this colourful and engaging e-learning resource contains 7 modules. Start a free account at MyOhcow first!

Office Ergo e-Learning
Job Demands Analysis (JDA)

This Job Demands Analysis (JDA) includes both a Physical Demands Description (PDD), as well as an analysis of Cognitive and Psychosocial Demands (CDA). This JDA template has been developed to be best used on a mobile device such as a phone or tablet, to accurately and efficiently capture the demands of a job. All features of the template are fully functional on computer as well.

Go to Tool

Office Ergonomics Calculator

The Office Ergonomics Calculator was designed to highlight areas of improvement between you and your workstation. It is a tool to indicate areas where improvement may be needed in your workstation setup. For more information about office ergonomics, see the reference guide.

Go to Calculator
Ergonomics Reference Guide
Keyboard Shortcut Tutorial
If you use a computer on a regular basis you need to be using keyboard shortcuts to minimize mouse use, increase keyboard efficiency, and reduce ergonomic risk. Different computers / operating systems have different shortcuts. Learn more about the shortcuts for the system that you use.

Go To Keyboard Shortcuts

Women's History Month 2025
2025-10-01 08:00 - 2025-10-31 17:00
See our Women’s History Month Page Here.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2025
2025-10-01 08:00 - 2025-10-31 17:00
Rates of breast cancer in Canada have dropped, and treatments have seen improved outcomes in the past decade. Still, according to the Canadian Cancer Society, about 75 Canadians are diagnosed with breast cancer every single day. It remains crucial to continue with education about the disease and be aware of its causes and prevention. Cancer of any type can be caused by both genetic pre-disposition and environmental factors.
For more information, see their page on the risks, symptoms, screening and diagnosis of breast cancer:

Cancer and Night Shift Work
According to current research published in Biomedical Reports, the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health and other sources, night shift work is the leading work-related factor that increases the risk for breast cancer. In jobs such as nursing where working at night is required it is recommended to reduce the number of consecutive night shifts. It has also been identified that some individuals are less prone to the negative effects of night shifts due to their chronotype, meaning their individual variations of sleep/wake times, influenced by environmental light, genetics, and human development stages. When it comes to scheduling night shift work, a “forward rotation” is recommended, e.g. the night shift follows the afternoon shift and completes in the morning, rather than the morning shift following the night shift and completes in the afternoon. Continued research is being done on this important topic. See OHCOW’s Page on Work-Related Cancer
Occupational Risk Factors
Other than night shift work mentioned above, sedentary work and work involving exposure to substances such as ionizing radiation, asbestos, pesticides and some cleaning chemicals are also job-related factors.
This would include the following cccupations:
Nursing and Health Care: Shift work can lead to melatonin suppression, which has been reported as a risk for multiple cancers, including breast. It disrupts the circadian rhythm resulting in damaging effects on immune function and hormone balancing.
Teaching, Clerical: Sedentary behaviour like desk work can lead to higher risks of breast cancer. It is well established that physical activity is an important factor in breast cancer prevention, by lowering sex hormones and reducing adiposity and inflammation.
Janitorial, and similar: Exposure to chemicals can increase risk for breast cancer. Asbestos, still present in some buildings, has been proven to lead to various kinds of cancer in women and men.
Agricultural: Some pesticides used on farms and in greenhouses increase risk, including through equipment decontamination, pesticide drift, chemical spraying in fields, and more. Washing contaminated work clothing with other regular clothing is also a factor.
Here are some general pages about breast cancer and ways we can be involved in Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Canadian Cancer Society
BreastCancer.org
Canadian Breast Cancer Network

World Mental Health Day 2025
2025-10-10
October 10th is World Mental Health Day, a day to raise awareness of mental health, provide education and advocate against the social stigma globally. The World Federation for Mental Health established the date in 1992 to raise global awareness about mental health issues and mobilize efforts in support of mental health.

Access to Services: Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies

One of the biggest challenges for workplaces today is achieving a balance between the demands of work and employees’ mental health and wellness. Workplace stress is a serious health and safety hazard that can have devastating effects. Creating safe and equitable working conditions, in which safety and wellness issues are taken seriously and promptly addressed, means a more productive work environment. When a workplace prioritizes work/life balance, everyone benefits. Working together, both can recognize and manage workplace psychosocial factors and ensure a supportive and healthy workplace environment, while allowing businesses to thrive. While the World Mental Health Day theme for 2025 is “access to services-mental health in catastrophies and emergencies,” the principles relate to emotionally healthy workplaces from a community and occupational perspective as well.

Mayday, Mayday!
Watch OHCOW’s 9th annual Mayday, Mayday Symposium, which continues to build on the double meaning of it’s title (International labour day + Universal cry for help) to translate the knowledge and experience of our OHCOW professional staff, partners and guest speakers to increase psycho-social hazard awareness and prevention of related harm and injury to workers.

Below are some of the most popular workplace mental health resources developed in partnership with OHCOW.

StressAssess Survey Tool and App
StressAssess Workplace Edition is a free, evidence-based online survey tool designed to assist workplaces in identifying psychosocial hazards that can lead to stress and mental injury, providing suggestions and pathways to address them, and thus preventing harm.
StressAssess Survey Tool and App

Mental Injury Toolkit (MIT)
An Introduction and Action Guide Created by Workers for Workers: This 6-part Guide and Resource Toolkit provides workers with a basic understanding and place to start when learning about work-related stress. It provides definitions, common causes of mental distress, legal frameworks (focusing on Ontario), possible actions to take, and resources.
Mental Injury Toolkit (MIT)

Bullying Awareness Week 2025
2025-10-12 08:00 - 2025-10-18 17:00
Achieving Bully-free Workplaces
Bullying in the workplace, academia and schools is a worldwide problem.
October 12-18, 2025 has been designated Workplace Bullying Awareness Week, to draw attention to the damage bullying does and incite efforts to stop it.
See our resources for more information. Resources on Workplace BullyingThe Canadian Institute for Bullying Resources

Northern Strong Health and Safety Expo
2025-10-16 08:30 - 12:30 | Workplace Safety North, 235 Cedar Street, Sudbury, Ontario, P3B 2N6, Canada
The 2025 NORTHERN STRONG: Health and Safety Expo – Now available to view!
An engaging morning of information sessions featuring your Northern System Partners. Both virtual and in-person options are free.
This HYBRID event begins at 8:30 AM EDT both online and in-person at Workplace Safety North, Sudbury Office, 235 Cedar Street.
Open to everyone, including colleagues, Joint Health and Safety Committee members, professionals from all work sectors, and anyone passionate about occupational health and safety. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with your Northern System Partners and leave with practical tools and resources to strengthen workplace health and safety.
VIEW HERE:
Download Slides
View Video

Invisible Disabilities Week
2025-10-19 08:00 - 2025-10-25 17:00
Not all Disabilities are Apparent. The third week of October is a week to bring awareness, education and support to your family, friends, co-workers, community and around the world during Invisible Disabilities Week October 19 – 25, 2025.
Invisible Disabilities Week Canada refers to a dedicated week in Canada that aims to raise awareness about disabilities that are not immediately apparent or visible to others. It focuses on educating the public about the unique challenges faced by individuals with invisible disabilities and promoting inclusivity and understanding. Neurodivergence, bi-polar disorder, the disease of multiple sclerosis (MS) and conditions like being hearing impaired are just some examples of such unseen disabilities.
The Canadian Association for Supported Employment Sponsors this week specifically as it relates to Inclusive workplaces. According to their website, one fifth of the workforce in Canada experiences some form of disability, and the most common disability types can be invisible.

The most common disability types reported by persons experiencing disability in Canada can be invisible (Statistics Canada. Canadian Survey on Disability, 2017 to 2022) :

Pain-related 62%
Flexibility 40%
Mobility 39%
Mental health-related 39%

How can Workplaces help an Employee with an Invisible Disability?

When there is no “visible proof” of disability, requesting accommodations can be complex. An employee may not wish to disclose their disease or condition to everybody, to avoid stigma or protect privacy.
Disclosure can help to positively shift an inclusive culture in a workplace where there is good communication and respect. See the below resources for more information.

Relevant Websites:
Invisible Disabilities Association
Stats about Disability in Canada
More References:

Statistics Canada. Labour force status of persons with and without disabilities aged 15 years and over, by age group and gender. Released March 28, 2024.
Tillotson, Jack et al. How to Make Workplaces More Inclusive for People with Invisible Disabilities. Harvard Business Review. Published April 4, 2023.
Department of Justice Canada. Serious Problems Experienced by Diverse People with Disabilities: Western Canada. January 18, 2022.
Prince, Michael. Persons with invisible disabilities and workplace accommodation: Findings from a scoping literature review. January 2017. Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation 46(1):75-86. Copy of draft manuscript.

2025 Occ|tober Webinar Series Week 1
2025-10-30 12:00 - 13:30
Occ|tober and Beyond 2025
MLITSD System Updates & Priorities
October 30, 2025
NOW AVAILABLE TO VIEW! SEE WEBINAR PLAYLIST PDF Slides – K O’Connell PDF slides – Jasmine Kalsi PDF Slides – Steve Gore OCTOBER 30: OHCOW’s annual Occ|tober Webinar Series begins with an overview of the occupational illness prevention activities by the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development of Ontario (MLITSD), and Health & Safety System Partners, including OHCOW. This session will review current initiatives to anticipate, recognize, evaluate and control workplace hazards. More info to come.
Speakers:

Dr. Joel Moody – Chief Prevention Officer

Kimberly O’Connell – OHCOW Eastern Executive Director

Jasmine Kalsi – IHSA Occupational Hygienist

Steve Gore – WSN Occupational Hygienist

MOVEMBER: Men's Health Month 2025
2025-11-01 08:00 - 2025-11-30 17:00
A Special Report: The Real Face of Men’s Health
Read the new report for a look at what men’s health really looks like. Canadian research by the Movember Institute of Men’s Health gives insights into men’s health and how it relates to their work and their family lives. It looks at not only statistics but real case studies, and delves into what is causing high rates of depression and premature mortality among men across the country. What positive ways can men be better served by physical and mental health resources? Download a pdf of this important document.
Read Report Movember is a global movement tackling mental health, suicide, prostate and testicular cancer. Grow a Mo or choose how you’ll get involved. Sign up today and have fun, raise funds, and help men live longer, healthier lives!
Do Movember at work
Fundraise at your workplace to champion men’s health!
Boost connection with colleagues and drive employee engagement! Movember can stimulate serious conversations about men’s mental health and wellbeing. But it’s also about having fun and feeling engaged and motivated. A friendly competition between departments or industry partners can help build community spirit and raise more funds too for this important cause!
Women can be involved too! Commit to running or walking 60KM over the month, at your own pace! Movember is a fun inclusive event that everyone can participate in, whether a workplace or a community group!
Sign up today
Get the App!

Kick off your Movember journey with the official app. It allows for more social interactions to support your fundraising efforts, and closer connection to the Mo Community to feel supported through the month. User friendly for newcomers.
Get the App
Movember and Occupational Health and Safety
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.
OHCOW’s Mayday, Mayday Webinar series has featured sessions on mental health in male-dominated trades, such as the 2023 webinar, Crisis Planning for Worker & Responder Mental Health.
See the playlist for the 2025 Mayday, Mayday here.
Let’s keep issues surrounding men’s health on our radar all year long, starting this month with MO-VEMBER!

Lung Cancer Awareness Month
2025-11-01 08:00 - 2025-11-30 17:00
Prevention

The Silica Control Tool was created to address the severe health risks caused by crystalline silica in the workplace. It was originally developed for the construction industry in British Columbia, but adapted for Ontario workers too. A new version of the tool was created this year for the Surface Mining sector. Any workplace where gravel, dust, cut glass, or other substances is present increases the risk for workers for lung cancer and other diseases. Sign up for the free tool today!
GO TO SCT PAGE
Diesel Exhaust: Lung Cancer Risk Calculator
At OHCOW, we are working to make tools accessible to those who risk lung disease and cancer due to hazardous exposure in the workplace. As an organization who holds knowledge transfer as one of our main goals, there are many resources on our site that address this topic. The Diesel Exhaust Lung Cancer Risk Calculator can help with those who work where automobile exhaust is present.
Research

Mcintyre Powder Project
OHCOW has also initiated research on lung disease contracted by those in the mining industry, particularly those miners who were exposed to McIntyre Powder. See our webpage detailing the work that has been done on this issue.
More information about lung cancer is available on our Work Related Cancer page, and on the federal website, Lung Cancer Awareness Month.

Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month
2025-11-01 08:00 - 2025-11-30 17:00
What is the Pancreas?
The pancreas is a pear-shaped gland, measuring about six inches, located in the abdomen near the stomach. Its emits enzymes that aid in digestion, metabolism and blood glucose levels. When cancer occurs in the pancreas, it is known to be difficult to detect and treat.
According to the Pancreatic Cancer Canada website, more than 7,000 Canadians were diagnosed with the disease in 2024. It is fatal in almost 90% of cases, making it among the deadliest of all cancers. Research shows that Gen-Xers and Millennials are facing a significantly higher risk of developing pancreatic and other cancers than previous generations.

Firefighting and Pancreatic Cancer
Firefighters die of cancer at a rate up to four times higher than the general population. Presumptive coverage under the WSIB streamlines the assessment of certain firefighter WSIB claims by presuming the worker’s injury or occupational disease is work-related, making it faster and easier for firefighters to access WSIB benefits and services. In 2023 Ontario expanded presumptive occupational cancer coverage for firefighters and fire investigators to include pancreatic cancers. See Ontario website.
Other at-risk occupations

Metal processing: Exposure to metalworking fluids, degreasers, and rust.
Agriculture: Farmers have reported frequent exposure to pesticides.
Chemical, petroleum, and rubber industries: Involves exposure to a variety of chemicals.

Printing and dry cleaning: Both industries involve exposure to specific solvents and chemicals.
Manufacturing: Workers in transformer manufacturing and those involved with dyes are at risk.

PANCREATIC CANCER CANADA
How to Help
Fundraising 5K event: Kicking PancreAS™!
The Kicking PancreAS™ (formerly Light up the Lake™) is a fun, high-energy evening 5K run/walk for all ages and abilities! Every step you take helps push for life-saving research, improved treatment and management options and, and hope for those impacted by this disease.
London November 22:Springbank Gardens; Burlington November 30: Burlington Waterfront
Here are other ways to help:
Make a donation – Your gift can help us to shift the narrative around pancreatic cancer from the well-held notion that it is a death sentence, to it being a treatable and survivable cancer.  Give today.
Follow Us – Follow Pancreatic Cancer Canada on social media, and post your photos using the hashtags #PancreaticCancerAwarenessMonth and #SurvivalNotSympathy. Whether you’re wearing purple in a selfie, or sharing the landmarks lit purple in your city/town; we want to see what this day means to you.
Host your own Fundraiser – Create an event in your community to raise awareness for pancreatic cancer and funds to advance advocacy, support services and innovative research. Learn more.
Engage Your Community – Ask your town or city to make a Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month proclamation during council proceedings to officially recognize this disease and its significance for members of the community. You can also ask local businesses to display a poster with the signs and symptoms or fact sheet in their window (available below).
Start a Conversation – Share your story on social media and get your network talking about pancreatic cancer. You can share your own story related to pancreatic cancer, posts from our social media pages.

2025 Occ|tober Webinar Series
2025-11-06 12:00 - 13:30
Since it first appeared in 1988, the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) has become a core component of workplace safety program for employers in a wide range of industries. Even so, it is often viewed a routine and often bureaucratic requirement rather than a critical safeguard against injury and illness. This session will highlight, despite nearly 40 years of WHMIS, the ongoing risk to Canadian workers from chemical exposure in the workplace, then discuss some of the strategies that help improve on implementation and efficacy of WHMIS in the workplace. SEE WEBINAR PLAYLIST

WHMIS Information & Chemical Exposures

Speakers:
Week 2 Part One

Chris Sheppard – Government of Nova Scotia, ROH

Week 2, Part 2

Madison Sieloff – WSPS Specialized Consultant

Week 3, Part 3

Leena Paul – WSPS Health and Safety Account Manager

Remembrance Day
2025-11-11

National Addictions Awareness Week (NAAW)
2025-11-16 08:00 - 2025-11-22 17:00
National Addictions Awareness Week (NAAW) is November 16–22, 2025. NAAW highlights solutions that help address the harms related to the use of alcohol and other drugs. It provides an opportunity for people in Canada to learn more about prevention and harm reduction, talk about treatment and recovery, and discuss solutions for change. See the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction.
See OHCOW’s page about Occupational related addiction here. This page features webinars on Opioid use and other addiction behaviours as it relates to the work environment. Go to Page

Digital Health Week
2025-11-17 08:00 - 2025-11-23 17:00
What is “Digital Health”? With regards to the healthcare industry, it can mean everything from data governance to navigating digital landscapes to promoting use of healthy digital platforms. It can address inclusivity, AI and emerging tech, responsible data use and data protection and security.
See the Canadian website here.

World COPD Day
2025-11-19
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a prevalent lung condition that usually remains underdiagnosed or is diagnosed in advanced stages of the disease process. While it is traditionally associated with cigarette smoking, it can also be caused by some workplace conditions. For more information, see OHCOW’s page on COPD Resources and the COPD Canada site. OHCOW RESOURCES ON COPD

16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence
2025-11-25 08:00 - 2025-12-10 17:00
About the 16 Days of Activism and Awareness
The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence (GBV) is an annual international campaign, occurring from November 25 to December 10. This campaign began in 1991 to call out and speak up against gender-based violence (GBV), and to renew our commitment to ending violence against women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ communities.
In the Workplace
Provincially there is information on the Province of Ontario website about employer duties under the Occupational Health and Safety Act to protect workers from workplace violence and harassment. The Act mandates policies and procedures to anticipate risks and protect workers. OHCOW’s StressAssess survey helps identify patterns of harassment and offensive behaviour in order to find prevention strategies. Our partner PSHSA offers many other resources in this area: https://www.pshsa.ca/workplace-sexual-violence-and-harassment
Key dates
November 25: International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women
This day raises global awareness of GBV. It was designated in 1999 by the United Nations General Assembly. The date of November 25 commemorates the lives of the Mirabal sisters from the Dominican Republic who were violently assassinated in 1960. See the United Nations Web Page commemorating this date in history.
December 6: National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women
In Canada, this day honours the 14 women killed in the Polytechnique Montréal massacre on December 6, 1989, and calls for action against GBV. See OHCOW’s commemorative page,
December 10: Human Rights Day
This day marks the anniversary of the United Nations adoption and proclamation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights on December 10, 1948. This document affirms the rights and dignity of all people and is a milestone in the history of human rights. It has been translated in over 500 languages, holding the Guinness World Record as the most translated document. See Federal Web Page In the below video, OHCOW Occupational Hygienist Meghan Friesen, Occupational Health Coordinator Holly Houston and Occupational/Industrial Hygienist Krista Thompson briefly explain the significance of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence and why we should all support it.
