Welcome to the FWSN Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) webpage. In this case, FAQ refers to a collection of answers to often-asked questions about the Forest Worker Safety Network and we hope that questions and answers helps with any concerns or issues that you might have regarding the FWSN.

Questions (click on question for answer)

What is the Forest Workers Safety Network?

Do I have to be a United Steelworkers member to join?

How can the FWSN help me?

Why is there a need for a FWSN?

How do I join the FWSN?

What will you do with my personal information if I join?

Why does the FWSN website mention the government and politics?

Can the FWSN help me exercise my basic rights?

Question: What is the Forest Workers Safety Network?

Answer: The Forest Workers Safety Network (FWSN), an initiative of United Steelworkers (USW) District 3, has been formed as a response to a demand for a worker-focused information and networking system. [back]

Question: Do I have to be a United Steelworkers member to join?

Answer: No, all BC forest workers are welcomed to join, whether or not they are unionized There are no fees. [back]

Question: How can the FWSN help me?

Answer: The FWSN can empower you and your fellow workers. You will learn about and defend your basic rights. You will learn to use WorkSafeBC to defend you. Together we can pressure government and forest industry licensees to live up to their legal responsibilities to provide safe work environments.  [back]

Question: Why is there a need for a FWSN?

Answer: Group of workers, disempowered by contracting out and the race to the bottom have had enough. They are setting aside their differences and are banding together to take action. [back]

Question: How do I join the FWSN?

Answer: Simply visit FWSN.ORG, click on Join TODAY, fill in the online form, and click SUBMIT. [back]

Question: What will you do with my personal information if I join?

Answer: The FWSN will not release your personal information to any government agency or employer. Your e-mail and/or address may be used to send periodic communications to you about issues and events. [back]

Question: Why does the FWSN website mention the government and politics?

Answer: The FWSN activities begin with the premise that government and government agencies are responsible for holding employers accountable to their legal responsibilities for worker safety and that government itself can be ineffective if not pushed by workers themselves. Some employers just don't care.  [back]

Question: Can the FWSN help me exercise my basic rights?

Answer: Absolutely. Your right to refuse unsafe work is written in law. So too is your right to be aware of workplace hazards, to be provided proper hazard awareness and working training and to fully participate in health and safety initiatives. We will work with you to ensure all your rights are upheld. [back]