Understanding the Internal Responsibility System

What Is the Internal Responsibility System?

The Internal Responsibility System (IRS) is the foundational principle of Ontario's Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA). It holds that everyone in the workplace—from the employer down to each individual worker—shares responsibility for health and safety. Rather than placing all responsibility on a single regulator or inspector, the IRS distributes accountability internally so that hazards are identified and addressed at the source.

Employer Responsibilities

• Establish and maintain a written occupational health and safety policy
• Ensure equipment, materials, and protective devices are provided and maintained in good condition
• Inform supervisors and workers of known hazards
• Acquaint workers with the rights and responsibilities under the OHSA
• Take every precaution reasonable in the circumstances for the protection of workers

Supervisor Responsibilities

• Ensure workers comply with the OHSA and workplace safety policies
• Advise workers of any potential or actual dangers in the workplace
• Provide written instructions where required
• Take every precaution reasonable in the circumstances for the protection of workers

Worker Rights and Responsibilities

• Right to know about hazards in the workplace
• Right to participate in identifying and resolving workplace health and safety issues
• Right to refuse unsafe work without reprisal
• Responsibility to work in compliance with the OHSA and workplace policies
• Responsibility to report hazards and defects to the supervisor

The Role of the JHSC

A Joint Health and Safety Committee (JHSC) is required in workplaces with 20 or more regularly employed workers. The JHSC acts as the internal mechanism for worker participation in the IRS. It identifies hazards, makes recommendations to the employer, and monitors the implementation of corrective actions.

Getting Started with the IRS

• Review your OHSA obligations as an employer or supervisor
• Establish or update your health and safety policy
• Ensure your JHSC is properly constituted and certified
• Train all workers on their rights and responsibilities
• Create a regular inspection and hazard reporting process