Occupational Health and Safety On Board Aircraft - TP 14215

TP 14215 - Occupational Health and Safety on Board Aircraft
(PDF, 616 KB)

What is the aim of the Aviation Occupational Health and Safety (AOHS) Program?

The goal of the AOHS Program is to ensure compliance with Parts II and IV of the Canada Labour Code (the Code) and its pursuant regulations. This deals with the work place health and safety of employees working on board aircraft in operation.

What is meant by on board aircraft "in operation"?

An aircraft is "in operation" anytime it is flying, as well as anytime the aircraft doors are closed and the aircraft is moving on the ground, under its own power, for take-off or landing. An aircraft is not “in operation” when it is stationary, in Canada or abroad, before, after, or between flights.

Where does the AOHS Program get its authority?

Transport Canada Civil Aviation oversees the Code and its regulations through a Memorandum of Understanding with Employment and Social Development Canada’s Labour Program.

What is the purpose of the Code?

The purpose of the Code is to prevent accidents, occurrences of harassment and violence and physical or psychological injuries and illnesses arising out of, linked with or occurring in the course of employment to which this Part applies.

Which of the Code's regulations cover employees' health and safety on board aircraft in operation?

Aviation Occupational Health and Safety Regulations
Administrative Monetary Penalties (Canada Labour Code) Regulations
Policy Committees, Work Place Committees and Health and Safety Representatives Regulations
Work Place Harassment and Violence Prevention Regulations

How does the AOHS Program work?

The AOHS Program monitors work places, produces promotional/educational campaigns, and conducts audits, inspections and investigations.

What rights does an employee have under the Code?

There are three basic employee rights in the Code:

1. The right to know every known or foreseeable health or safety hazard in the work place and the precautions needed to remain safe and healthy
2. The right to participate as a member of the Policy Health and Safety Committee, Work Place Health and Safety Committee, or as a Health and Safety Representative
3. The right to refuse dangerous work

Who is responsible for oversight of the AOHS Program?

Civil Aviation Safety Inspectors - Occupational Health and Safety (CASI-OHS), referred to as Health and Safety Officers (HSOs), are responsible for oversight of the AOHS Program.

For more information on this or any other subject related to Aviation Occupational Health and Safety for employees working on board aircraft in operation, please contact your nearest regional HSO.