Romana Cruz
Senior Regional Officer, WorkSafeBC
Languages spoken: Pilipino (Tagalog), English
Years with WorkSafeBC: 29 years
Background: MSc and BSc in Chemistry, specialist training in Occupational Hygiene, WHMIS, and safety in health care

What does a WorkSafeBC senior regional officer do?

As a senior officer, I supervise a group of WorkSafeBC prevention officers who make sure workplaces are safe and healthy. We provide advice and safety information to employers and workers. We inspect workplaces to make sure they comply with B.C.’s health and safety laws. Many times, this is in response to reports of safety violations or that a worker has been hurt.

What do you like about your work?

Whether in a hospital, where many caregivers are first-generation Canadians, in a factory, or a restaurant, workers daily face the risk of a sore back or shoulder, or hazards from machines, and equipment. I take satisfaction that my job, though demanding, means more of these workers can go home safe and free from injury at the end of each day.

When you talk to workers, what do you tell them about WorkSafeBC?

That knowing and exercising their rights — like the right to refuse unsafe work — will help them stay safe. They should also know that they can make a claim for health care costs and lost wages if they are hurt, and that WorkSafeBC can help them in their language if they do not understand English well.

How can employers make sure their workplaces are safe for workers?

Employers must understand that they are responsible for workplace health and safety. That responsibility includes properly supervising and training employees for the work they do.

Where can employers and workers learn more about WorkSafeBC?

Our website, WorkSafeBC.com, is a good resource for health and safety material, videos, and information in many languages. Or people can call our Prevention information telephone line if they have questions.

To learn more visit WorkSafeBC.com or email Comment@WorkSafeBC.com. To talk to someone about health and safety in your workplace, call our Prevention information line: 604 276-3100 or toll-free 1 888 621-7233.