OHCOW

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 (America/Toronto)
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.

2025 Occ|tober Webinar Series Week 5
2025-11-27 12:00 - 13:30
AGENDA
Ontario Pesticide Safety Survey for Migrant Agricultural Workers (OPPESSMAW)
12:10-12:30
speakers:
Eduardo Huesca (OHCOW)
Dr. Anelyse Weiler (University of Victoria)
Cynthia Mora (OHCOW)
OHCOW’s Nail Salon Project
12:35-12:55
speakers:
Zohreh Ebrahimi (OHCOW)
Kevin Hedges (OHCOW)
Anh Nguyen (OHCOW)
Heat Stress and Ontario Temporary Foreign Agricultural Worker
1:00- 1:20
speakers:
Eduardo Huesca (OHCOW)
Azuani Cano (OHCOW)
Daisy Rivadeneira (OHCOW) See Webinar Playlist

Women's Brain Health Day
2025-12-02
Women’s Brain Health Day is an initiative to research and raise awareness of health issues specific to women.
See Website

Did You Know…

Almost 70% of those with Alzheimer’s disease are women.
Women with early memory changes decline about twice as fast as men and end up worse off, too.
Stroke disproportionately affects women: more women die of stroke, women have worse outcomes after stroke, more women are living with the effects of stroke, and women face more challenges as they recover.

Women suffer from depression, stress, and anxiety twice as much as men.
Women take longer to recover from concussions and have more severe symptoms than men.
Four times as many women have multiple sclerosis as men, and more and more women are developing it.

Women’s Brain Health Initiative (WBHI), a Charitable Foundation established in 2012, is the largest resource for evidence-informed information specific to women’s brain health. It is a significant force in raising critical awareness of the unacceptable discrepancies in brain research on afflictions that present in women in frightening proportions. It addresses the fact that most research in these areas does not take into account brain differences between the sexes, and focuses more on men.
WBHI’s research, education, and awareness programs are essential to improving the brain health and mental wellness of women, caregivers, and their families, as well as catalyzing the urgency that must drive funds toward research to combat brain aging diseases that disproportionately affect women.

Register for Replay
Elevating the Conversation on Women’s Brain Health
December 1 and 2 the Women’s Brain Health Summit is taking place in Toronto. In-person tickets are sold out but you can still register to watch a replay of the event. It features well-known women from around the world discussing the issues surrounding women’s brain health.

International Volunteer Day
2025-12-05
A day to acknowledge the contributions of those who donate their time and effort for worthy causes… Thankyou.

National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women
2025-12-06
The Montreal Memorial to the 14 slain women.
December 6 is a day to remember the victims of the 1989 Montreal mass shooting that targeted women, one of Canada’s darkest days of violence in recent memory. It reminds us of the need for vigilance in the fight against gender-based violence.
From the Canadian website:
The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women is about remembering those who have experienced gender-based violence and those who we have lost to it. It is also a time to take action. Achieving a Canada free from gender-based violence requires everyone living in this country to educate themselves and their families and communities on gender-based violence, centre the voices of survivors in our actions and speak up against harmful behaviours.
On this day, we wear a white ribbon to honour the victims and call for an end to gender-based violence. The White Ribbon Campaign is a global movement of men and boys in more than 60 countries working to end male violence against women and girls. It began in Toronto in 1991 in response to the 1989 École Polytechnique massacre.

Human Rights Day 2025
2025-12-10
From the United Nations Web Page:
2025 Theme – Human Rights, Our Everyday Essentials
In this period of turbulence and unpredictability, where many feel a growing sense of insecurity, disaffection and alienation, the theme of Human Rights Day is to reaffirm the values of human rights and show that they remain a winning proposition for humanity.
Through this campaign, we aim to re-engage people with human rights by showing how they shape our daily lives, often in ways we may not always notice. Too often taken for granted or seen as abstract ideas, human rights are the essentials we rely on every day.
By bridging the gap between human rights principles and everyday experiences, we aim to spark awareness, inspire confidence and encourage collective action.
The campaign emphasizes that human rights are positive, essential and attainable.

Fire fighter Cancer Awareness Month 2026
2026-01-01 08:00 - 2026-01-30 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. It includes previous information on legislation, funding and research, as well as 2026 updates.
OHCOW PAGE ON FIREFIGHTERS AWARENESS MONTH
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.

Alzheimer's Awareness Month
2026-01-01 08:00 - 2026-01-30 17:00
Alzheimer’s in Canada
The Alzheimer’s Society of Canada recognizes January as Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. In 2026, the goal is to reduce the stigma around dementia and cognitive decline. They cite research indicating that while older Canadians report being afraid of the afflictions of Alzheimer’s and dementia and losing independence, there is a reluctance to address the problem and become aware of preventive measures. January is also a time to discuss how people can support loved ones who are showing signs of cognitive decline or experiencing full-blown Alzheimer’s.
What Causes Alzheimer’s?
The risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia is based primarily on both genetic predisposition and lifestyle choices.
There is some evidence that occupational exposures — pesticides, solvents, electromagnetic fields (EMF), lead and aluminium—can also increase risk for Alzheimer’s and dementia. Brain injury and hearing loss caused in the workplace frequently contribute to cognitive deterioration. CCOHS has more information on this topic here .
Alzheimer’s and Dementia in the Workplace: What to do When Signs of Dementia Appear on the Job
The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) has information on how an employer can brooch the subject of cognitive issues if a worker is exhibiting symptoms of dementia. See the CCOHS section on dementia. Depending on the job, accommodations may be possible that allow that person to continue working. Dementia is considered a disability and rights are afforded to that person. Some workplaces develop a carer policy and program to help workers who are providing care to others with cognitive decline.
Getting Involved
“Forget No One”
Join the Alzheimer’s Society on Wednesday, January 28, 2026 to show your support and combat stigma by sharing messages of support and engaging in dialogue around dementia. Be sure to use the hashtag #ForgetNoOne and tag us @AlzheimerCanada. Join up here!
Their website has has region-specific information on how people can contribute in their communities during Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. For resources and information on living with dementia, clinical and observational studies, programs and services and fundraising see their page on Ontario.
Save the Date: May 30!
The IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer’s is Canada’s biggest fundraiser for Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Monies raised support programs and services in your community that improves the quality of life for people living with dementia, their families, and support other activities like education and public awareness. These walks happen at the end of May. The Toronto event is happening on May 30. Find a walk in your community here!

Psychology Month and Workplace Mental Health
2026-01-21 08:00 - 17:00
Prioritizing Mental Health
January is known to be a month where Canadians can experience heightened anxiety and depression, as the holidays wind down and the days are still short. Thursday January 22 will mark the end of the ten darkest weeks of the year. In fact, the third Monday of January (the Monday that just passed!) is known as “Blue Monday,” a day for feeling particularly low.
Psychology Month
Prioritizing mental health has a positive effect on focus and productivity
Whether you work in an office, a factory, or remotely, psychosocial hazards can effect your mental health and productivity. Prioritizing workplace mental health means emphasizing the importance of positive communication and respect in workplaces. It also involves taking time out of your day to prioritize lowering stress and anxiety. February is Psychology Month, that, according to the Canadian Psychology Association, is 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.”
Globally there are mental health campaigns at this time of year to address the mid-winter blues. Remember to take time for your mental health! There is help available if you need it, either through your workplace or the Canadian Psychology Association website.
Addressing workplace mental health is one of OHCOW’s primary functions. Our StressAssess Survey Tool and App 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 preventing the harms that can result. It has personal and workplace editions, and is available in desktop and app formats. OHCOW’s Workplace Mental Health Page Stress Assess
Mayday, Mayday Workplace Mental Health Webinar Series
Every year OHCOW holds a weekly webinar series in the month of May, hosting webinars that specifically address psychosocial hazards in the workplace, including depression, stress and anxiety, and substance abuse. These webinars feature expert speakers on a wide variety of relevant topics. All of the sessions are on our youtube page divided in playlists for each year.
Below is one of the sessions from last year’s series, featuring Carrie de Graaf, a former schoolteacher and the President of OSSTF district 8 support staff; and John Oudyk, OHCOW Occupational Hygienist. To see more webinars from this series, see the 2025 youtube playlist.

CROSH Conference
2026-01-23
The Annual Conference of the Centre for Research in Occupational Safety and Health (CROSH). This important event will feature seminars on respiration hazards in mining and other sectors, occupational exposures to silica and poor air quality, supporting worker mental health and wellbeing, and more topics.
Download a pdf of the full schedule here. REGISTER

Heart Month 2026
2026-02-01 08:00 - 2026-02-28 17:00
February is Heart Month
February is Heart Month, an annual opportunity for individuals, groups, and businesses to raise funds and awareness for the prevention and treatment of heart disease.
February is also Preventative Health Awareness Month

As well as Heart Month, February is also officially recognized as “Preventative Health Awareness Month“. This grass roots initiative has grown into a national movement, and although its topic is broad, it includes the promotion of preventative measures to avoid heart disease such as not smoking, committing to a healthy diet, and prioritizing regular movement and exercise.
Links:
University Hospital Foundation Heart Month Page
Heart and Stroke Foundation Canada

OHCOW Webinars on Work-Related Heart Disease
Worker Particulate Exposure and Heart Disease: McIntyre Powder
Reviewing Clinical Experience & Current Research on Critical CVD Particulate Hazards, and Related Opportunities for Prevention
2024. In Canada, heart disease is the second leading cause of death, with 1 in 12 Canadians over the age of 20 living with a diagnosis. Smoking, unhealthy diet, and lack of physical activity are well-known risk factors. However, occupational and environmental exposures are also becoming increasingly recognized as important. Join Dr. Andrew Zarnke PhD, and Dr. Sandra Dorman PhD, as they explain the health effects of the inhalation of fine particles in the workplace, and the associated contribution to heart disease using McIntyre Powder as a case example.
Host: Dave Wilken, OHCOW, Chief Operating Officer
Speakers: Dr. Andrew Zarnke PhD, OHCOW, Project Director; Dr. Sandra Dorman PhD, Centre for Research in Occupational Safety and Health (CROSH), Director
Work-Related Heart Disease Webinar
A 2021 presentation made in partnership with the Center for Research in Occupational Safety and Health (CROSH) as part of the OCC-Disease Prevention webinar series and in the spirit of Heart Month.With presentations by Dr. Sandra Dorman, Centre for Research in Occupational Safety and Health (CROSH) and Andrew Zarnke, Occupational Health Clinics for Ontario Workers (OHCOW)
Dr. Sandra Dorman, Centre for Research in Occupational Safety and Health (CROSH). VIEW SLIDES [PDF]

Black History Month
2026-02-01 08:00 - 2026-02-28 17:00
Government of Canada News Release

The 30th Anniversary of Black History Month
Each year, Black History Month honours the experiences, achievements and enduring contributions of Black communities in Canada, while deepening our collective understanding of their history and impact on Canadian society.
Today, the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages, unveiled this year’s theme: “30 Years of Black History Month: Honouring Black Brilliance Across Generations — From Nation Builders to Tomorrow’s Visionaries.” This theme celebrates three decades of Black History Month in Canada and recognizes the enduring legacy of Black Canadians, whose leadership, creativity, innovation and resilience have shaped our past, continue to influence our present, and will inspire future generations.
Minister Miller announced the theme at the Black Cultural Centre for Nova Scotia, a hub that showcases and preserves, promotes and celebrates the history, culture and contributions of African Nova Scotians. During his visit, he also announced funding of more than $280,000 for nine projects in the Atlantic Region that will highlight Black History Month.
Throughout February, Canadians are invited to learn more about and celebrate the diversity and accomplishments of Black Canadians across the country. Black History Month is also a time to reflect on Canada’s painful history and the systemic barriers that Black communities continue to face, including anti-Black racism and discrimination, and to reaffirm our shared responsibility to address them.
As we prepare to celebrate 30 years of Black History Month in Canada, communities across the country are invited to join in honouring Black excellence in Canada and celebrating the remarkable contributions that Black Canadians make to Canadian society every day.

World Cancer Day 2026
2026-02-04
See the commentary from the international World Cancer Day organization website.

Webinar: 11:30am to 1pm EST
OHCOW & OCRC on World Cancer Day shared research on occupational co-exposures of cancer and clinical case studies.
The Occupational Health Clinics for Ontario Workers (OHCOW) and the Occupational Cancer Research Centre (OCRC) this World Cancer Day explores occupational co-exposures and cancer risk through both research and clinical perspectives. OCRC presented findings from their co-exposures project on lung and bladder cancer, while OHCOW will follow with clinical work and case studies that illustrate the real-world impacts of multiple workplace exposures, linking research findings to practice.
11:30 AM – 12:15 PM
The Changing Landscape of Exposure and Cancer
Dr. Jeavana Sritharan – OCRC Scientist, Surveillance, Dr. Tracy Kirkham – OCRC Associate Director & Scientist, Shannon Halls – OCRC Research Associate, Fatima Ali – OCRC Research Associate
12:15 PM – 12:45 PM
A Clinical Perspective: Case Studies with Multiple Exposures
Lawrence Kurtz – OHCOW Occupational Hygienist
12:45 PM – 1:00 PM
Q&A

RSI Day 2026 Available to View
2026-02-06 10:00 - 12:00
Repetitive Strain Injury Day Webinar Series
OHCOW is pleased to announce that the 2026 Webinar Series had 2,015 registrants, surpassing the registration for the 2025 sessions! It is now believed to be the world’s largest international ergonomics-focused webinar series.
View the full playlist on our Youtube channel. Go to Landing Page WEEK ONE

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

Speaker: Trevor Schell – Coordinator/OHCOW Ergonomist

10:15 AM – 11:00 AM
Symptoms in the Opposite or Uninjured Leg and Limping-Related Back Pain: Secondary Effects on Lower-Extremity Joints and the Spine

Speaker: Trevor Schell – OHCOW Ergonomist, Sudbury; Cathrine Hjelle Feier – UW Post Doctoral Fellow

This session examines how altered gait and compensatory movement patterns following lower-limb injury redistribute joint loading across the uninjured leg, pelvis, and spine. The presentation explores the development of functional and structural leg length discrepancies, their impact on pelvic alignment, and the resulting strain placed on the hip, knee, ankle, sacroiliac joints, and lumbar spine through disruption of the biokinetic chain. Emphasis is placed on understanding these interconnected biomechanical effects and on preventative measures such as early gait correction, targeted rehabilitation, and supportive interventions to reduce secondary injury risk and long-term musculoskeletal dysfunction.
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11:00 AM – 11:45 AM
Applying Ergonomics at Home

Speaker: Daryl Stephenson – OHCOW Ergonomist, Hamilton

When people think of the term ergonomics, they often think of the workplace. However, ergonomics also plays a vital role in preventing injuries outside of work, influencing how we move, posture, and perform everyday activities. This session explores various way that ergonomic principles can be applied to daily living.
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11:45 AM – 12:15 PM
Q&A

REGISTER

RSI Day 2026 Week 2
2026-02-13 10:00 - 12:00
Repetitive Strain Injury Day Webinar Series
OHCOW is pleased to announce the return of our free annual international event focussed on musculoskeletal disorders and their prevention. Now in its 27th year, OHCOW’s RSI Day program continues to translate the knowledge and experience of our professional staff and guest speakers to increase awareness and prevention of musculoskeletal disorders. Due its ever-expanding audience, this year’s event will again be held virtually, as a 4-week webinar series over the month of February.
WEEK TWO

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

Speaker: Trevor Schell – Coordinator/OHCOW Ergonomist

10:15 AM – 11:00 AM

Understanding Fatigue in Occupational Hand Tasks

Speaker: Michael Holmes – Program Director, Brock University

Repetitive strain injuries of the distal upper extremity are typically attributed to mechanical strain from cumulative loading. RSIs are multifactorial, but neuromuscular fatigue is often a common mechanism linking occupational exposure to performance loss and injury risk. This presentation will review biomechanical and physiological evidence showing how peripheral and central fatigue accumulate during repetitive work, ultimately compromising grip force and hand control. We will discuss our recent work that strives to leverage fatigue as a biomarker for early intervention and prevention.
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11:00 AM – 11:45 AM
Ergonomics and Pregnancy

Speakers: Andrew Flanagan – OHCOW Ergonomist, Melissa Statham – OHCOW Ergonomist; Jessica Montgomery – OHCOW

Pregnancy brings significant physical changes that can affect posture, balance, and musculoskeletal comfort. Applying ergonomic principles during pregnancy can help reduce the risk of MSDs, and promote overall well-being. This session helps workers understand the risk factors associated with pregnancy and MSDs. Emphasis is placed on preventative measures, body mechanics, and supportive tools that help expectant mothers maintain comfort, mobility, and long-term musculoskeletal health throughout pregnancy. This session will also touch on workplace party responsibilities associated with pregnancy at work.

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11:45 AM – 12:15 PM

Q & A

REGISTER More information and links to register will be provided.

RSI Day 2026 Week 3
2026-02-20 10:00 - 12:00
Repetitive Strain Injury Day Webinar Series
OHCOW is pleased to announce the return of our free annual international event focussed on musculoskeletal disorders and their prevention. Now in its 27th year, OHCOW’s RSI Day program continues to translate the knowledge and experience of our professional staff and guest speakers to increase awareness and prevention of musculoskeletal disorders. Due its ever-expanding audience, this year’s event will again be held virtually, as a 4-week webinar series over the month of February.
WEEK THREE 10:00 AM – 10:15 AM
Welcome Message and Overview
Speaker: Trevor Schell – Coordinator/OHCOW Ergonomist

10:15 AM – 11:00 AM
Simplifying Ergonomic Risk: A First Look at the Preliminary Ergonomics Risk Assessment Tool (PERAT)
Speaker: Nathan Birtch – WSPS Special Consultant (Ergonomics)
Identifying musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) hazards is often supported by simple checklists, but prioritizing these hazards and assigning risk ratings typically requires complex assessment tools and specialized ergonomics knowledge. To address this gap, Nathan Birtch, Ergonomist at WSPS, collaborated with employers and fellow ergonomists to design and pilot a practical, easy-to-use solution: the Preliminary Ergonomics Risk Assessment Tool (PERAT). PERAT goes beyond basic checklists, providing a structured approach without the complexity or time demands of in-depth ergonomic assessments. In this session, we’ll introduce the tool, share insights from its 2025 trial, and outline next steps for formal evaluation and validation. While PERAT is not yet available for general use, plans are underway to release it alongside a training component to ensure effective implementation.

11:00 AM – 11:45 AM
From Pixels to Prevention: How AI is Changing Ergonomic Assessment
Speaker: Steven L. Fischer – Associate Professor | Associate Chair Applied Research Partnerships and Outreach
Associate Director Research, CRE-MSD and Department of Kinesiology | University of Waterloo
This presentation will share insights about how advances in computer vision and artificial intelligence are transforming simple smart phone videos into actionable insights for musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) prevention. Attendees will learn how emerging best-practice guidelines are shaping the responsible use of AI for ergonomic assessment, including a specific case-example of the use of computer vision to drive a revised NIOSH Lifting Equation analysis.

11:45 AM – 12:15 PM
Q & A
REGISTER

RSI Day 2026 Week 4
2026-02-27 10:00 - 12:00
Repetitive Strain Injury Day Webinar Series Week 4
10:00 AM – 10:15 AM
Welcome Message and Overview
Trevor Schell – Coordinator/OHCOW Ergonomist

10:15 AM – 11:00 AM
Protective or Problematic? Passive Shoulder Exoskeleton Use and Musculoskeletal Risk in Overhead Drilling: A Field to Lab Study
Speaker: Maria Valerio – Senior Project Manager, Conestoga College
Recent interest in passive shoulder exoskeletons is reshaping how we address musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) risks in overhead construction work. These devices aim to reduce shoulder stress and perceived strain, yet questions remain about their impact on workers’ risk perception and muscular effort. Using a field to lab research approach, we examined exoskeleton use during overhead drilling tasks in construction jobs. Overall, exoskeletons may lower strain in some muscles but shift it to others, potentially altering risk perception. Informed by this study and related research, we will provide evidence-based insights to guide ergonomists in MSD prevention strategies.

11:00 AM – 11:45 AM
Pouring over the Data: Conditions of Work and Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain Among Alcohol Service Workers from Ontario
Speakers: Kristin Yates – Researcher, Conestoga College, Pete Driezen – Senior Data Analyst, Conestoga College, Mohammad Howard-Azzeh – Data Analyst, Conestoga College
People employed in the food and beverage industry in Canada face many occupational health and safety issues. Burnout is a major psychosocial challenge, especially among servers, bartenders, and managers. Likewise, musculoskeletal discomfort and pain are notable due to physically demanding tasks such as prolonged standing, repetitive movements, and handling heavy loads in fast-paced work environments. This study reports the results of a survey of 595 people employed in the alcohol service industry, primarily from Ontario, Canada. It explores the psychosocial conditions of work using the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire along with risk factors for chronic pain in this high-risk population. Implications of these findings for the prevention of musculoskeletal injuries in this population are discussed.

11:45 AM – 12:15 PM
Q & A REGISTER
