A safe workplace matters—physically and psychologically. This page is here to help you find trusted information, understand your options, and connect with a steward if you need support.
If something doesn’t feel right at work, you don’t have to sort it out alone. Reaching out early is okay—even if you’re not sure it’s a “health and safety issue.”
Not sure where to start?
Here are a few common reasons members come to this page:
- A concern about workplace violence, harassment, or disrespectful behaviour
- A safety issue in your work area (equipment, hazards, near-misses)
- Pain, strain, or repetitive work concerns (back, neck, shoulders, wrists, etc.)
- Questions about reporting, documentation, or what happens next
If you want to talk it through, please contact a steward via the Contacts page. A short conversation can help you figure out the best next step.
How a steward can help
A steward can:
- Listen and help you clarify what’s happening
- Help you document concerns (dates, facts, and what you’ve already done)
- Explain processes and options in plain language
- Support you in respectful conversations and next steps
You don’t need perfect wording or paperwork to reach out. Start with what you know.
Workplace violence and harassment
Everyone deserves to work without fear of violence or harassment, in a safe and healthy workplace. If you’re experiencing or witnessing concerning behaviour, support is available.
If you feel unsafe right now: prioritize your immediate safety and contact campus security/emergency services first, then reach out to the Local when you’re safe.
Ontario’s Occupational Health and Safety Act includes requirements for workplace violence and harassment policies and programs in provincially regulated workplaces.
Ontario Government: OHS Act
Georgian College: Health and Safety
Pains and strains (MSDs): early signs matter
Pain, strain, and repetitive stress injuries can build over time—and it’s common to “push through” until it becomes harder to manage. Early attention helps.
Common early signs:
- Tingling or numbness
- Persistent soreness or stiffness
- Pain that increases during repetitive tasks
- Reduced range of motion or grip strength
If you notice early symptoms, consider reaching out to a steward and/or your health and safety representatives to talk through options and workplace supports.
Helpful resources (trusted organizations)
These links are provided for learning and reference:
- Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) — practical OHS information and guides
- Workers Health & Safety Centre (WHSC) — training and resources for workers
- Education Safety Association of Ontario (ESAO) — education-sector safety resources
- Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) — electrical safety information
- Ontario Safety Association for Community Health Care — safety resources for community/health settings
- Ontario Service Safety Alliance (OSSA) — sector safety resources
- OHS Canada — general safety news and articles (helpful reading, but not an official standard)
Georgian College Health & Safety Committee
The College’s Health & Safety Committee is a key part of workplace prevention and improvement. If you’re looking for committee information, meeting notes, or reporting pathways, include the official Georgian College link here:
A quick note on confidentiality
For privacy, please avoid posting sensitive personal details in public areas of the site. If your concern involves personal circumstances or ongoing issues, use the Contacts page to connect directly with a steward.
Connect with a Steward
This page is maintained as a practical reference. If a link looks outdated or broken, please let us know so we can correct it.