Policies and Procedures

Banff Centre has a Health and Safety program in place that follows these guiding principles:

Reduce incidents and accidents

Improve safe work practices

Promote communication and improve attitudes on health and safety throughout Banff Centre

Provide the necessary tools and systems to build and maintain a healthy and safe work environment

If you are working with hazardous materials (solids, liquids, or gases), operating power tools, or doing rigging during your residency, inform yourself about safety requirements. A mandatory studio orientation by your facilitator/program delivery specialist covers health, safety, and studio equipment training prior to access.

You are responsible for understanding and following safe work practices (SWP), personal protective equipment (PPE), and the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS). You are required to supply your own approved safety footwear if requested by your department.

All accidents, incidents, or near-misses must be reported to your program coordinator or supervisor and an incident report completed. If needed, a WCB Report will also be completed; this must be submitted within 24 hours of an incident.

Banff Centre's Security Services handles complaint investigations, on-site escorts, first response in emergencies, and protection against fire, theft, vandalism, wildlife, and illegal activity. Security Services ensures compliance in illegal drug and alcohol legislation, addresses environmental concerns, and risk management.

Security Services has a partnership with the local police, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), and also assists the Parks Canada Warden Service in monitoring the activity and protection of wildlife.

Contact Security by dialling '0' or '7777' on any Banff Centre phone in the event of an emergency. Security is on campus 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and is here to assist you. You can also reach them on their 24 hour cell phone 403.760.0098.

It is common to see wildlife across campus at Banff Centre, within the Town of Banff and Banff National Park. An animal sighting can be one of the most thrilling experiences during your visit, but always keep in mind that these are wild animals in wild spaces. For your safety and theirs, please treat them with respect and keep your distance. Please do not feed any of the animals, including the squirrels, as they are protected by law.

Elk can be fast and dangerous, especially during spring calving (May 15-July 1) and the fall rut (Sept. 1 - Oct. 15). If you encounter any elk, keep your distance. You must stay at least three bus lengths away from elk at all times. Do not use headphones on trails. It is always best to travel in groups and to be aware of your surroundings at all time. If you see wildlife on campus, please contact Security Services.

It is your responsibility to educate yourself on the topic of wildlife and how to prepare for wildlife encounters.

Mountain Environment: A Word of Caution

Mountains can be dangerous. If you are planning an excursion, contact the Parks Canada Information Centre at 403.762.1550 for up-to-date weather and avalanche information, reports on trail conditions, and wildlife activity. Visit pc.gc.ca/banff for more information.