The NDP Government in Alberta is taking steps to include farm and ranch workers under safety legislation.

Jobs Minister Lori Sigurdson has introduced Bill 6, the Enhanced Protection for Farm and Ranch Workers Act.

She says there's still a lot of consultation that needs to be done because one size doesn't fit all occupations.

"If the legislation is passed, we wouldn't make any changes to Employment Standards or Labour Relations until next spring," she says. "First, we will consult with farmers and ranchers their workers, so can gain a good understanding of the circumstances that are unique to the industry."

She says the government knows that harvest doesn't fit neatly into an eight-hour day and calving season doesn't conform to a statutory holiday so they need to speak with farm and ranch owners, workers and their organizations to come up with the right fit for everyone.

Farm and ranch workers will be protected by the Occupational Health and Safety Act and regulations beginning January 1, 2016.

Workers’ Compensation Board coverage for farm and ranch workers will also be mandatory as of this date.

Changes to Alberta’s Employment Standards and Labour Relations legislation will come into effect in the spring of 2016, following consultations with industry regarding exemptions that may be needed for unique circumstances such as seeding or harvesting.

"I think the vast majority of farmers and their organizations are looking forward to this, I know there's some uncertainty about when it's going to be taking place so moving forward they're going to be able to address their operations as they see fit to make them that much more safer," says Agriculture and Forestry Minister Oneil Carlier. "This legislative framework will give that level playing field to all workers in Alberta.

A series of town hall meetings will also be held to get input on the changes with one scheduled for Okotoks December 2nd at the Best Western.