OSH Answers Fact Sheets

What are climate related emergencies? Due to climate change, there has been an increase in extreme weather events. Climate related emergencies refer to emergency situations caused by these extreme weather events, such as: Extreme heat and cold events Forest Fires  / Wildfires Floods and heavy rain and snow Severe winds, hurricanes, and tornadoes Air pollution and smog Other extreme weather events Why do workplaces need to plan for climate related emergencies? The...

What are wildfires and forest fires? Wildfires and forest fires are any fire that occurs in forests, brush, shrub, and grasslands. These fires are a natural part of the ecosystem and help maintain forest diversity, and health. In this document, we will use the term wildfire to refer to either wildfires, wildland fires, or forest fires. What causes wildfires? Wildfires are most often started by lightning strikes or by human activity. Between early April and late October, many regions of...

What should I know before reading about this occupation? This profile summarizes the common issues and duties for a registered nurse. Nurses can work in a wide variety of health care settings or workplaces. Depending on where you live, the duties of a nurse (registered, licensed practical, aid versus other types of nursing) may vary. Because each workplace is unique, there is no way to predict all of the possible hazards you may encounter. This summary focuses on the major job duties that...

What are reproductive hazards?  Reproductive hazards are, generally speaking, hazards that can interfere with a person’s ability to procreate. Reproductive hazards may affect the sexual function and fertility in a person, including conception, pregnancy, and development.  Exposure to these hazards can result in infertility, miscarriage, premature labour, fetal malformations, or genetic defects in offspring that may impact the child's health. Please also see our OSH Answers Fact...