Verna Ledger: Workplace Safety Pioneer, 2013
Verna Ledger got her first job in 1953 at a plywood mill in New Westminster, BC. She found the working conditions challenging due to the noise, dust, and strong chemical smells from resins that caused breathing difficulties.
Ledger’s experience in the mill sparked her interest in preventing such hazards, leading her to get involved in workplace safety.
Verna was elected to the mill’s safety committee and, despite initial nervousness, became a vocal advocate for preventing worker injuries. She faced resistance, as many, including doctors and union members, did not initially recognize occupational health as a significant issue.
Her dedication led to her election to a position the International Woodworkers of America (IWA) union local in New Westminster, where she began speaking about health and safety at regional conventions. Her articulate and forceful advocacy caught the attention of others, marking her as a natural leader. A turning point came when she attended a convention in Portland where Jeannie Stellman, author of “Work is Dangerous to Your Health,” spoke, which solidified Verna’s resolve to push for improvements.
Impressed by her commitment, the IWA hired Verna as the safety director for Western Canada, and later for all of Canada. Despite some initial resistance from those who doubted a woman could handle the “tough” industry, Verna proved them wrong, becoming one of the best safety directors who significantly expanded the focus beyond just accidents to include overall worker health.
In the late 1970s, Verna traveled to Sweden with other IWA delegates to observe their safer mill practices. The Swedish mills were a revelation, with minimal noise, enclosed machinery, and no dust, demonstrating that solutions, though costly, were possible.
While employers were initially slow to prioritize occupational health, focusing primarily on production, Verna worked to educate them about the benefits of a healthier and safer workplace. Eventually, some companies recognized the financial burden of employee illnesses and began implementing changes. Verna looks back with pride, acknowledging her substantial contribution to these advancements.
This video was produced by WorkSafeBC for the BC Labour Heritage Centre.