The Gig Economy & OH&S: Are Freelancers and Contractors Safe?

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Summary

The gig economy is booming in Calgary. Whether it’s food delivery drivers, construction contractors, tech freelancers, or rideshare operators, more people than ever are working independently. But here’s the big question: who’s responsible for their safety? 🤔

Unlike traditional employees, gig workers don’t always have access to workplace safety programs, benefits, or OH&S protections. That’s where things get tricky. Who makes sure independent workers are safe on the job? What rights do they have? And, more importantly, how can businesses hiring gig workers avoid legal risks?

At Calgary Safety Consultants, we work with businesses and independent workers to navigate OH&S compliance, risk management, and safety training. Let’s break it all down.

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What is the Gig Economy? And Why is OH&S an Issue?

The gig economy refers to a workforce where individuals work on short-term contracts, freelance jobs, or as independent contractors, instead of having full-time employment. This includes:

  • Rideshare & Delivery Drivers (Uber, Lyft, SkipTheDishes, DoorDash)
  • Construction & Trades Contractors (Electricians, Plumbers, Welders, General Contractors)
  • Freelancers in IT, Marketing, & Design
  • Personal Care Workers (Home cleaners, fitness trainers, caregivers)

While gig work offers flexibility, it also comes with major OH&S risks:

❌ Why Safety is a Challenge for Gig Workers:

  • No employer-provided safety training
  • Limited access to PPE or hazard control measures
  • Unclear liability for injuries
  • Lack of insurance or workers' compensation coverage

Fact: Studies show that contractors and gig workers are at higher risk of workplace injuries than full-time employees. (Source)

Common OH&S Risks for Gig Workers

Rideshare & Delivery Drivers

  • Vehicle accidents due to fatigue (long hours & tight deadlines)
  • Exposure to violence or harassment from passengers/customers
  • Repetitive strain injuries from constant driving & carrying loads

Solution:

  • Businesses hiring delivery drivers should provide safety training on road hazards.
  • Drivers should use hands-free devices & follow shift limits to avoid fatigue.

Rideshare OH&S Guidelines: https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/hsprograms/driver_safety.html

Construction & Trades Contractors

  • Falls from heights (scaffolding, ladders, roofing work)
  • Exposure to hazardous materials (asbestos, lead, silica dust)
  • Heavy machinery & power tool injuries

Solution:

  • Contractors must be trained in fall protection & PPE use.
  • Companies hiring independent tradespeople should verify their OH&S compliance.

Alberta Construction Safety Requirements: https://www.alberta.ca/occupational-health-and-safety.aspx

Freelancers & Remote Workers

  • Ergonomic injuries (poor workstation setup leading to back/neck pain)
  • Mental health concerns (stress, isolation, lack of support)
  • Cybersecurity risks affecting workplace safety**

Solution:

  • Companies hiring remote freelancers should provide ergonomic guidelines & mental health support.
  • Freelancers should set up a proper workstation to prevent long-term injuries.

Remote Work OH&S Tips: https://www.worksafebc.com/en/about-us/news-events/2021/june/workstation-set-up-tips-for-working-at-home

Who is Responsible for Gig Worker Safety?

Unlike full-time employees, gig workers aren’t always covered under workplace safety laws. In Alberta, OH&S laws primarily apply to employer-employee relationships—but things get murky with independent contractors.

Responsibility Falls on Three Parties:

  1. The Gig Worker – Responsible for their own safety, but often lacks resources or knowledge.
  2. The Business Hiring Them – Can be held liable if they fail to provide a safe work environment.
  3. Government & OH&S Regulators – Set legal standards, but enforcement varies for gig workers.

Alberta OH&S Laws & Gig Work: https://www.alberta.ca/contractor-responsibilities-ohs.aspx

How Businesses Can Protect Gig Workers & Reduce Liability

If your business hires gig workers, contractors, or freelancers, you could be held responsible for their safety. Here’s how to avoid liability while ensuring worker safety:

✅ 1. Verify Safety Training & Certifications

  • Require proof of safety training & qualifications before hiring.
  • Ensure contractors comply with OH&S regulations for their industry.

✅ 2. Provide Basic Safety Guidelines & PPE

  • Offer workplace-specific safety instructions to independent workers.
  • Provide PPE (gloves, masks, harnesses) if required for the job.

✅ 3. Ensure Proper Insurance & Workers’ Compensation Coverage

  • Check if gig workers have their own WCB (Workers' Compensation Board) coverage.
  • If not, consider extending your company’s insurance coverage to contractors.

✅ 4. Include Safety Clauses in Contracts

  • Clearly define who is responsible for safety compliance in work agreements.
  • Outline hazard control measures and required PPE in contracts.

Fact: Businesses that fail to ensure proper OH&S compliance for gig workers could face fines & liability lawsuits if an injury occurs on-site. (Source)

How Calgary Safety Consultants Can Help

At Calgary Safety Consultants, we help businesses & gig workers navigate OH&S compliance. Whether you’re a company hiring independent contractors or a freelancer looking for safety support, we offer:

✔ OH&S Compliance Audits – Ensuring businesses meet legal safety requirements.
✔ Safety Training for Gig Workers – Teaching freelancers & contractors how to work safely.
✔ Workplace Risk Assessments – Identifying hazards for gig-based work.
✔ Custom Safety Policies & Contracts – Helping businesses protect themselves & workers.

 

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Final Thoughts: Making Gig Work Safer in Calgary

The gig economy isn’t going anywhere—but safety risks shouldn’t be ignored. Whether you’re an independent contractor, freelancer, or a business hiring gig workers, it’s critical to understand your rights, responsibilities, and safety obligations.
By implementing proper safety measures, verifying compliance, and seeking expert OH&S guidance, businesses can protect their workers and avoid costly legal issues.

Let’s talk! Book your complimentary consultation today.

Stay safe, stay compliant, and keep your business running smoothly!

FAQs About The Gig Economy & OH&S

Unlike traditional employees, gig workers often lack safety training, insurance, or workplace protections. This can result in higher injury risks and legal complications when accidents happen.

Safety responsibility is shared between:

  • The Gig Worker – Must ensure they have PPE and follow safety best practices.
  • The Business Hiring Them – Should verify OH&S compliance and provide necessary safety guidance.
  • Regulators (OH&S Authorities) – Set legal standards, though enforcement varies for independent workers.
     

  • Rideshare & Delivery Drivers: Vehicle accidents, fatigue, and customer-related violence.
  • Construction Contractors: Falls from heights, power tool injuries, and hazardous material exposure.
  • Freelancers & Remote Workers: Ergonomic issues, mental health concerns, and cybersecurity risks.
     

It depends. While gig workers are independent, businesses may still be liable if they fail to provide necessary safety instructions, PPE, or workplace hazard information. Including safety clauses in contracts is highly recommended.

Secure Your Workplace Safety Today

Calgary Safety Consultants is here to help you ensure compliance, enhance safety, and streamline your OH&S program. Don’t wait—fill out the form, and we’ll connect with you to discuss how we can support your business. Let’s get started!