Safety and Health Week May 1-7
Safety and Health Week was first launched in June 1997, marked by an agreement between Canada, the United States and Mexico. During the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) talks between the governments of Mexico, United States, and Canada, workplace safety within the boundaries of all three nations was discussed by government labour department representatives.
Each year the first week of May is dedicated to health and safety and recognized by workplaces throughout North America.
McMaster has recognized this week with special events since it’s inception.
COVID-19 Resources
University Guidelines to COVID-19 Learn More
Updated May 1, 2022
The hierarchy of controls continues to be the University framework of measure for the ongoing protection of all members of the McMaster community.
Incident Reporting Learn More
All injuries, incidents and hazardous situations must be reported immediately to your supervisor.
Ergonomics: Working from Home Learn More
The following suggestions will allow employees to continue to work productively and consider proper ergonomic set-up while at home.
Working from Home Ergonomics Video
Strategies for Healthy Screen Habits – NEW
Working Alone Learn More
Employees who are working alone on campus must have a working alone plan that is created with their supervisor. The plan must include procedures for obtaining assistance in the event of an emergency.
Home Safety Learn More
The checklist is designed to assess the safety of the home workstation. Employees are expected to designate an adequate and separate workstation in the home. To ensure employees are working in a safe and healthy dedicated workstation, the following checklist should be completed. Please note, assessment is of the workstation only and is not reflective of the safety of the home in its entirety.
Masks and Face Coverings
Face Coverings and Face Masks – Government of Ontario
When and How to Wear a Mask – Public Health Ontario
Mask Use for Non-Health Care Workers – Public Health Ontario
Quick Links
Joint Health and Safety Committee's (JHSC's)
Learn more about Our Safety

Risk Management Manual Learn More
Includes all Risk Management Manual Programs.

Occupational Safety Learn More
Information includes ergonomics, violence and harassment prevention in the workplace, fire safety, standard operating procedures and first aid kit locations.

Lab Safety Learn More
Information including biological/chemical waste disposal, hazardous materials, and McMaster’s chemical inventory system (HECHMET).

Travel Safety and Planning Learn More
Information on international travel including Global Affairs Canada, International SOS, Travel Smart app.

Campus Insurance Learn More
Information included: Certificates of Insurance, insurance coverage for shipping equipment and information on leased, owned or rented vehicles.

Field Trip, Student Placements and Research Activity Learn More
Information for students, employees travelling on McMaster business as part of a field trip, research activity or student placement.