According to WorkSafeBC, an employer in British Columbia, Canada is required to have a safety program if they employ 20 or more workers. A safety program is a systematic approach to managing workplace health and safety, and it helps employers meet their legal obligations under the Workers Compensation Act and its regulations. The safety program must outline the policies and procedures that the employer has in place to manage and prevent workplace hazards and injuries.

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), a safety program is needed in order to help prevent workplace injuries and illnesses. OSHA requires that employers take steps to eliminate or reduce workplace hazards to ensure a safe and healthy work environment.

The specifics of when a safety program is required by OSHA may vary depending on the size of the organization, the industry, and the types of hazards present in the workplace. Employers with 10 or fewer employees may be exempt from some recordkeeping requirements, but still have a responsibility to provide a safe workplace for their employees. Employers with 11 or more employees are generally required to establish a safety program and maintain accurate records of workplace injuries and illnesses.

According to Alberta Occupational Health and Safety (OHS), employers are required to have a safety program in place if they have 20 or more workers or if they operate in a high-risk sector, such as construction. The purpose of the safety program is to identify and control workplace hazards, prevent injury and illness, and promote a safe and healthy work environment for all employees. The safety program should be tailored to the specific needs and risks of the workplace and include the following elements: hazard assessment, hazard control, emergency preparedness, training, and regular review and updating.

A safety program is necessary in a workplace to prevent accidents and illnesses, ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, and foster a culture of safety among employees. It helps to identify and manage potential hazards, establish procedures for reporting incidents, and provide training and resources for preventing incidents from occurring.

A comprehensive safety program can reduce the number of workplace accidents and illnesses, minimize financial losses due to work-related incidents, and improve overall employee morale and productivity.