Healthcare and Social Assistance Advancing priorities through research and partnerships

Most people think of the Healthcare and Social Assistance (HCSA) industry as providing clean, sterile and safe places to work. In reality, HCSA workers are exposed to many hazards that can affect their health and well-being. Their work exposes them to life threatening infections, such as SARS, HIV and hepatitis. They work with highly toxic cancer treating drugs and various chemical agents. They perform physically demanding tasks, such as lifting patients. In fact, this sector of the economy is highly hazardous and puts workers at a surprising risk for illness and injury.

Healthcare and Social Assistance Advancing priorities through research and partnershipspdf icon [PDF – 748 KB]