Paramedics have the right to Refuse Dangerous Work

Written By Edmonton-Metro LUE

What Is a Dangerous Work Refusal?

A worker may refuse to work or to do work at a work site if the worker believes on reasonable grounds that there is a dangerous condition at the work site, or that the work constitutes a danger to the worker’s health and safety or to the health and safety of another worker or another person. The manager and worker will work together to remove the dangerous situation. If at any time you need more assistance with a dangerous work refusal, your Workplace Health and Safety Advisor can help.

What do you need to do?

Step 1: Worker believes there is a dangerous work condition.

Step 2: Worker promptly reports the work refusal to their manager or supervisor, along with their reasons they believe the work is dangerous.

Step 3: Manager and worker work together to assess the situation and determine if it can be resolved right away.

Step 4: If resolved: the worker goes back to work and an incident report is submitted in MySafetyNet.

Step 5: If NOT resolved: see the Dangerous Work refusal flowcharts below. Submit an incident report in MySafetyNet.

Step 6: Call your local Workplace Health and Safety Advisor if you need assistance.

Common EMS scenarios that may trigger a refusal of dangerous work

  • Violent scenes unsecured by Police

  • Defunct CO detector

  • Defunct portable radios

  • Defunct AC/Heating in ambulance

  • Absent PPE - Gloves / Eye Protection / Gowns / Respiratory protection

Please consult the Edmonton Zone EMS Hazard Identification Assessment and Control (HIAC) for further details on controls and equipment that have been implemented to keep you safe on the job.

Edmonton-Metro LUE
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