Making Work Safe: S. (Prab) Prabhakaran

S. (Prab) Prabhakaran

Occupational Safety Officer, WorkSafeBC

Languages spoken: English, French, Tamil, Hindi and Arabic
Years with WorkSafeBC: 4 years
Background: I’ve worked in manufacturing, petro-chemical and chemical industries, and production-control operations. I have an Occupational Health and Safety Diploma and 3rd class Power Engineering certificate from BCIT; and I’m a Canadian Registered Safety Professional.

What does a WorkSafeBC officer do?

We make sure workplaces are safe for workers through compliance with B.C.’s health and safety laws.
We visit workplaces to provide advice and safety information to employers and workers. We inspect workplaces, often in response to reports about safety violations or that a worker has been hurt.

What do you like about your work?

Making a difference for the better — for safety — in someone’s life every day!

What should workers new to B.C. know about WorkSafeBC?

Find out what your rights are. Speak up if you have concerns about safety and say no if you think a task is dangerous. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
If you do get injured, you have a right to make a claim with WorkSafeBC to cover your health care costs and wages lost.
You can find information about your rights and workplace safety in various languages on WorkSafeBC’s website at www.worksafebc.com.

What should employers who are new to B.C. know about WorkSafeBC?

They should understand that they are responsible for ensuring that their workplace is healthy and safe for all their workers. This includes proper supervision and training of employees for the work they are being asked to do. Employers also need to register with WorkSafeBC.

How can people learn more about WorkSafeBC?

Workers and employers can go to WorkSafeBC.com to find a wealth of useful information and safety videos. We also have information in many languages on the website for those who don’t read or speak English.

To learn more visit WorkSafeBC.com or email [email protected]. 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.