Retail · Boutique · Store

OHS action plan for retail CNESST-compliant

Boutiques, convenience stores, pharmacies, clothing shops, bookstores: all Quebec retail businesses with fewer than 20 employees must now have an OHS action plan.

Top OHS risks in retail

Handling and lifting

Unloading deliveries, restocking, step ladders. Back and shoulder injuries are very common.

Violence and theft

Customer aggression, armed robbery (convenience stores, jewellers). CNESST requires a written violence-prevention procedure.

Slips and falls

Wet floors, loose mats, objects on the floor. Falls account for 20% of retail injuries.

Psychosocial risks

Difficult customers, atypical hours, peak-season pace. Bill 42: mandatory harassment policy.

Your CNESST obligations (retail < 20 employees)

  • Written OHS action plan posted (back office)
  • 6-category risk assessment
  • OHS liaison officer + training within a year
  • Harassment policy (Bill 42)
  • Theft or aggression procedure
  • Basic employee risk training

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FAQ — Retail OHS

Does a solo boutique with no employees apply?

If you have zero workers (employees or contractors), you are not subject. As soon as you have one employee (even part-time), the law applies.

Do I need a theft procedure even if my shop has never had one?

Yes, prevention is the goal. Even without prior incidents, a workplace-violence risk assessment is mandatory for retail.

Who should be the liaison officer in a small shop?

A worker designated by the employer, which can be a regular employee. They must complete CNESST-approved training within a year of designation.