Donating blood is a small decision you can make that can have an immeasurable impact. Taking around an hour out of your day and braving a tiny pin prick could mean the difference between life and death for someone in need. Each person has between 3.5 and 5.5 liters of blood, yet donating one unit - just 525ml - can save the lives of as many as three people.[1] On the other hand, car accident victims can require upwards of 50 units[2]. Blood is always in demand, and demand is always shifting. Canada’s lifeline is fragile; factors as commonplace as bad weather or as terrifying as natural disasters...

With winter comes the excitement of moving through the snow on toboggans, skis, snowboards, skates, and snowmobiles. One of the most common modes of transportation in the winter, though, is one that many people dread: everyday winter driving. Winter driving impacts all Canadians. Even for those who manage to avoid driving themselves, winter roads conditions can cause delays for delivery drivers, postal workers, ride-sharers, and more. When everyone does what they can to mitigate the risks of winter driving, both individual drivers and their communities can benefit. Winterize your ride [1] This tips can help make sure your vehicle is road-ready (even when you'd rather be curled up...

First Aid Defined: Photo Credit: DLG Images First aid is acute care provided to an individual who is either injured or has suddenly become unwell.  The goal of first aid is to minimise the extent of the injury or illness as well as potential lasting side effects. This can look like alleviating discomfort for mild incidences, or this can look like preservation of life in extreme circumstances. Workplace Requirements:  Photo credit: EMS Limited Different jurisdictions across Canada will vary when it comes it specific requirements, but there are common rules and recommendations to keep in mind: All jurisdictions have an obligation to provide a basic level of first...

Picture this: you come home from work and you’re exhausted. Your brain and body are crying out for rest. So, you plop down on the couch and scroll on your phone, or maybe you binge that new dramady everyone is talking about. Yet, by the time you go to bed, you’re still feeling drained. You figure maybe you need more rest, so you spend your weekend lounging too, but Monday rolls around and you somehow feel worse. Maybe others tell you to go to the gym to get energized or hit the town to unwind, and while these things may help some of the time, by and large...

Do you use your hands as part of your job? Chances are you do. Whether you perform your job duties in a storefront, an office, or out in the field, you will likely find yourself needing to repeat one movement over and over. The more time you spend performing repetitive tasks – such as typing, pushing, or grasping – the higher your risk for developing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS). CTS Definition and Anatomy: Photo credit: Carpal Syndrome Vs Repetitive Strain Injury | CPR First Aid The carpal tunnel is an open space in the wrist. It is made up of the bones at the base of the hand...

What is an EAP? EAP stands for Employee Assistance Program. EAPs also go by the name EFAP, which stands for Employee and Family Assistance Program. In Canada these are confidential, employer-sponsored benefit programs that provide support and resources to employees and their immediate family members. EAPs can help employees and their dependents manage personal and work-related issues that may impact job performance, health, and overall well-being. Key Elements of an EAP: Confidential Counselling Services: Short-term therapy for issues like stress, anxiety, depression, grief, family problems, and substance abuse. Available through licensed professionals (psychologists, social workers, counsellors). Typically provided in person, by phone, or online. Work-Life Services: Legal and...

Have you noticed that your electricity bill has been going up in recent years with no sign of stopping? Did you know that you can take small steps to lower your monthly bill and improve the energy efficiency in your living and work space?[1] Conserving energy is one small way you can help not only your wallet, but the environment as well. We have put together some simple and effective changes you can make to conserve electricity every day. Conserving energy at home: Prioritize using natural light, especially during the day. Turn off lights and electronics when not in use. Make it a habit to turn off lights...

In the aftermath of the holiday season hustle and bustle, it's natural to feel down. You may notice you feel more tired, less motivated, or just not quite like yourself. You might even feel anxious or depressed. It is important to know that you are not alone. Many people suffer from the winter blues, and each person has their own way of working through it. There are countless ways you can manage these feelings and care for yourself. Finding what works best for you may take some exploration. We are here to provide you with more information about the winter blues and inspire you with some ideas for...

Although most Canadian employees are legally entitled to breaks, many workers still aim to take time away from work as little as possible. Despite popular belief, rest is not just a treat to indulge in or a reward for getting enough work done. Taking breaks is vital to maintaining sustainable work practices and practicing self-care. Taking Breaks for Happiness A survey of 1,200 North American workers compared employees who take a lunch break every day with those who do not. The results showed that the employees who took consistent breaks reported higher levels of job satisfaction, felt more valued as employees, and were more likely to recommend their...

Have you ever wondered about the similarities and differences between Canada’s provincial healthcare systems? Often times these questions only arise when patients seek healthcare outside their home province. Questions such as “Do all the provinces communicate with each other regarding healthcare?”, “How does provincial healthcare in Alberta compare to Ontario?”, and of course “How does the healthcare system in Canada actually work?”. Read on for answers to questions you may not know you had about provincial healthcare. Canada's healthcare system is primarily a publicly funded and publicly administered system. The Canada Health Act of 1984 is the foundation of healthcare across the nation. This legislation establishes five key...