WorkSafeBC will be carrying out an inspection initiative in 2026 with a focus on Musculoskeletal Injury (MSI) prevention in long-term care. Inspection initiatives support employers in identifying where prevention programs and controls may require strengthening, with the goal of reducing worker injuries and improving health and safety outcomes.

From 2021 to 2024, approximately 29.7% of the 56,306 time-loss claims in health care and social services were related to MSIs resulting from overexertion. These injuries are most commonly associated with patient care activities such as lifting, transferring, repositioning, and boosting, as well as the handling of equipment and materials.

This subsector also has a higher injury rate than the province as a whole. In 2024, the injury rate for health care and social services averaged 3.9, compared to the provincial injury rate of 2.03. Meanwhile, the long-term care classification unit (CU 766011) has an injury rate approximately four times higher than the provincial average.

SafeCare BC offers resources and support to employers in long-term care. See our Guide to MSI (musculoskeletal injuries) prevention for more information.

What should an employer expect during this initiative?

WorkSafeBC’s health care prevention officers will use a risk-based inspection approach, with a
focus on:

• Reviewing work processes, practices, and equipment used by health care workers
• Assessing the application of the hierarchy of controls, in alignment with sections 4.46– 4.53 of the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation (Ergonomics — MSI Requirements)

Throughout this initiative, WorkSafeBC will continue to apply a balanced approach of education, consultation, and enforcement, tailored to the level of workplace risk. This approach ensures employers and workers receive clear direction and appropriate oversight to support effective MSI prevention, while continuing to address other workplace risks, including violence prevention, as
required.

At the conclusion of the initiative, WorkSafeBC will arrange a meeting with you to review overall findings and to receive your feedback.

For more information about what to expect during the inspection process, visit worksafebc.com.

Read the full letter sent by WorkSafeBC.