The annual Vancouver Island and Interior Safety Conferences are industry-driven safety conferences covering topics of interest to the forestry sector.
The conferences are led by steering committees made up of representatives from labour, industry, BCFSC and WorkSafeBC with industry sponsorship that allows for free admission for conference delegates.
The 2025 Vancouver Island Safety Conference (VISC) is coming up on Saturday, November 1, 2025 at the Vancouver Island Conference Centre.
Registration opens mid-June! Be sure to check back and sign up early for a chance to win our early-bird prize: a BCFSC Stanfield and toque.
Join us for an inspiring day of learning, sharing and advancing safety in BC's forestry sector. We'll delve into safety-related issues and learn ways to enhance safety across industry. We look forward to seeing you there!
VISC is FREE for anyone who works in any phase of the forest industry from silviculture to harvesting to wood products manufacturing. This annual event is a must-attend for BC forestry professionals bringing together industry leaders and forestry workers to explore critical safety topics and share practical strategies for creating safer workplaces.
This year's theme, Facing the Future Together: The Human Side of Safety, promises to deliver powerful insights and practical knowledge through a series of compelling presentations by industry experts and speakers.
Keynote Speakers:
- Sylvia Marusyk is an Occupational Therapist with over 30 years of expertise in health and safety. Her company MindBody Works Inc. focuses on creating and maintaining health and wellness in the workplace. Sylvia will deliver a humorous and dynamic presentation on how to build healthy lives and workplaces.
- Steve Howe will share his powerful journey from a life-altering workplace accident to becoming a passionate safety advocate. Through personal storytelling and professional insight, he will challenge us to reflect our own “why” for working safely and offers practical strategies to foster a culture of zero-accident workplaces.
- Justin Brien, a mental health advocate from Salmon Arm, BC, will share his journey through addiction, depression and self-doubt in his keynote, Find Your Voice, Find Yourself. His talk will highlight the power of asking for and accepting help, leading to recovery, purpose and a stronger sense of self.
Event Highlights:
- Engaging Presentations: Hear real-life experiences that will help you think about transforming safety in your company.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow professionals and industry leaders.
- Relevant Safety Information: Learn about the latest safety practices and innovations.
The Vancouver Island Safety Conference (VISC) wouldn’t be possible without the generous contributions of our industry sponsors. By becoming a sponsor — you’re helping us move closer to a shared vision where every forestry worker goes home safe - every day.
For sponsorship opportunities, contact the VISC Steering Committee at training@bcforestsafe.org or by phone at 1-877-741-1060.