However, I’m not going to debate about the calibre of workplace safety curriculum in schools. What I do want to share with you is how I went from knowing little about OH and S issues to learning a lot more. And while I certainly don’t claim to be an expert, my time here at COS has really opened my eyes. 

I’ve had the opportunity to report on a diversity of workplace health and safety issues – ranging from the violence security guards encounter on a daily basis to a research project that is helping reduce stigma within the workers’ compensation system – and in doing so I’ve learned about the human impact of these issues on the stakeholders involved. 

I see now how passing laws, educating people, conducting research and every other effort that is being made to keep workers safe while on the job DO make a difference in helping to reduce the number of workplace injuries and fatalities. 

From my experience here, I’ve even noticed a change in myself. Not only do I approach my own work in a safe way, but I’m constantly aware of how my actions will affect others as they do their jobs, even more so than before.

Take my drive to work on the highway, for example, which has seen various amounts of roadwork since I started in June. When I approach those construction workers, who are just meters away from the vehicles whizzing by, I no longer view them as an inconvenience to my commute. Instead, I see workers who could easily be injured or killed, all while simply trying to do their jobs. Now, I’m much more aware of how my actions as a driver can help those workers do their jobs safely.

I even noticed my changed attitude when I got a parking ticket a few weeks ago. I was pretty angry at first and wanted to find that officer so I could give him a piece of my mind. But once I calmed down, I remembered what I’ve learned about the devastating consequences of workplace violence and harassment. That’s when I saw this officer as a worker who is doing his job and doesn’t deserve to be yelled at or berated for it.

While my internship here has come to an end, my heightened respect for the right of workers to be able to do their jobs safely and my increased understanding of how my actions can play a role in this certainly have not. I also hope that my contributions have had a similar positive impact on others. 

Thank you, COS, for this valuable education and opportunity.

Larissa Cardey
Dundas, Ont.