WCB wants to ban smoking in all workplaces

The Workers’ Compensation Board has announced it will band together with Nunavut and the Northwest Territories to campaign for the elimination of smoking in all workplaces.

WCB spokesperson Dave Grundy said it would be the toughest smoking ban ever to be implemented in the North, outlawing smoking in all public areas, including bars, restaurants and private clubs.

At a recent WCB meeting in Iqaluit, members agreed to address the issue of second-hand smoke this year, and advised employers, workers and the public of its intentions.

“Environmental tobacco smoke (ETS), or second-hand smoke, is a known source of carcinogens in the workplace,” Andy Wong, the chair of the WCB, said in a news release.

“Medical science and the experience of other jurisdictions show us that exposure to ETS makes workers sick. With its mandate to ensure safe workplaces, the WCB will work with the governments to develop legislation or regulations to prevent and control workers’ exposure to second-hand smoke,” Wong added.

Throughout the process, the WCB will consult with employees, bosses and the public.