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

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.

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)

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!

About the author

John Duplessis, B.Sc., CRSP

President and Principal Health & Safety Consultant

John Duplessis is a Canadian Registered Safety Professional with more than 30 years of occupational health and safety experience in oil and gas, construction, green energy, midstream operations, and industrial project work.

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