Canada to roll out training for prosecutors and police on investigating workplace deaths as criminal negligence from Dec. 1
Key points
- A national training program for Crown prosecutors and police starts Dec. 1
- It aims to close the enforcement gap left by the Westray Law (Bill C-45), which amended the Criminal Code in 2004
- A lawyer says senior management could face greater criminal scrutiny, and frontline police may become more involved in investigations
A training program for Crown prosecutors and police to investigate workplace deaths as criminal negligence will roll out across Canada on Dec. 1. It aims to close the enforcement gap left by the Westray Law (Bill C-45), which amended the Criminal Code in 2004. Lawyer Ryan Collins says the new enforcement could bring greater criminal scrutiny to the entire safety system and senior management, and frontline police may become more involved in investigations. For reference only, not legal advice.
What employers should do
- Review workplace safety systems and related records to confirm they meet current safety requirements
- Brief senior management on the potential criminal scrutiny that could follow a workplace death
Policy details
- Jurisdiction
- Canada
- Status
- Enforcement action
- Effective date
- —
- Employers covered
- Canadian employers (workplace death investigations)
- Official source
- View official source ↗
Original report: Canadian HR Reporter ↗Edited with AI assistance. Facts are based on official sources and original reports. For information only; not legal, immigration or insurance advice.