From L-R: SafeGen Treasurer James Wilson, SafeGen Board of Directors Chair Bruce Wilkinson, and Jobs, Economy and Northern Development Minister Brian Jean. (Government of Alberta)

By rdnewsNOW Staff

Alberta

Province announces investment to build safer workplaces for youth

Feb 10, 2023 | 4:29 PM

Alberta’s government has announced it is providing $150,000 to deliver workplace safety training to high school students.

The government says it is partnering with organizations like SafeGen to empower students as they explore and build their careers. This initiative, say officials, aims to help Alberta’s partners create safer and healthier workplaces for a new generation of innovators. The funding is expected to allow SafeGen to provide free safety training to students, keeping Alberta’s workplaces healthy and safe for years to come.

“Supporting students as they explore careers means giving them the tools to make responsible decisions on the job. This is a key part of the Renewed Alberta Advantage, because it keeps young Albertans safe, creates vibrant workforces that attract job creators and helps our economy grow even stronger,” says Brian Jean, Minister of Jobs, Economy and Northern Development.

Through their JobSafe education program, provincial officials say SafeGen provides training for students across the province. Alberta’s government says it is proud to support the organization, as it teaches the next generation valuable skills to keep them safe in today’s workplaces. SafeGen works with junior and senior high schools to offer free JobSafe courses to students.

“Providing workplace health and safety is one of the many steps in preparing students for in-demand careers such as skilled trades,” adds Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Education. “Young Albertans deserve to be equipped with the necessary tools to thrive in any workplace they decide to pursue. This safety training will give students the confidence they need to begin their careers.”

Meaningful Mementos

Remembering Someone You've Lost at Christmas

Dec 03, 2024

Seasonal Sorrow

How Do You Get Through The Holidays When You're Grieving?

Nov 01, 2024

Upcoming Events at Oliver's

Grief & Loss and Estate Planning Seminars

Oct 02, 2024

Preparing students for high-demand industries, such as the trades, say government officials, will allow them to build good habits and incorporate their training in their future careers. For decades, SafeGen has assisted schools throughout Alberta, Saskatchewan and the Northwest Territories implement the JobSafe Program into curriculums. The government says the program is currently used by more than 200 schools, with more than 115,000 students having completed the courses. Three JobSafe courses are accredited, offering one credit each.

“Through our JobSafe Program, we are promoting safe and healthy workplace training to young Albertans before they join the workforce,” shares Darryl Kitschinski, executive director, SafeGen

. “Since starting this program in 1995, we have delivered our courses to over 100,000 students across Alberta. We are excited to be able to offer this critical program to our next generation of workers.”

According to provincial officials, Alberta’s government offers several programs and resources to keep Albertans safe on the job. Actions are said to include updating the Occupational Health and Safety Code to reflect modern workplaces. An updated and easy-to-understand OHS Code is anticipated to help employers keep workers safe, building workplaces that support jobs, attract investment and grow Alberta’s economy. In addition, a new searchable occupational health and safety tool is said to make it easier for Albertans to access essential health and safety information.