What is a JHSC?

A workplace Joint Health & Safety Committee (JHSC) includes both management and worker representatives. At least half of the committee should be non-management workers.

The requirement to have a JHSC is based on the number of workers, so some workplaces may have only a Health & Safety Representative, which may be a worker or a member of management.

The JHSC meets on a regular basis to review and deal with any health and safety issues at the workplace in a cooperative way.

Your worker representatives on the JHSC contribute their first-hand knowledge of the workplace and the experience of the workers to critical conversations about health and safety.

The responsibilities of your JHSC or H&S Representative include:

• Identify and evaluate hazards/risks that may cause injuries, illnesses, or accidents.

• Help develop procedures to protect the employees’ health and safety, and put those procedures into action.

• Speak with/respond to employees about their health and safety concerns, complaints, and suggestions.

• Take part in health and safety investigations or inquiries and consult with professional resources when needed.

• Help implement and promote employee training programs.

• Make sure injury and hazard records are maintained.

• Follow up on reports and related recommendations.

• Take part in resolving unsafe work refusals.

• Recommend prevention and safety programs to management.

• Monitor the efficacy of all health and safety procedures and programs in the workplace.

QUESTIONS?

Your JHSC or workplace Health & Safety Representative is the best place to start. You can also reach out to your Union Rep or the Union’s dedicated Health & Safety department @ 1-800-565-8329.

WANT TO GET INVOLVED IN THE HEALTH AND SAFETY OF YOUR WORKPLACE?

Taking an active role in your workplace and the Union can be very rewarding!

As part of a JHSC, you make important contributions to the working conditions for every employee. You gain valuable planning and leadership experience, too.

Speak to your Union Rep about the steps you can take to get involved.