Why We Need Action on the OHS Resource Centre
Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committees (JOHSCs) need practical tools and support so workers and employers can work together to prevent, report, and resolve health and safety issues at work. The OHS Resource Centre helps meet this need by providing an easy-to-use online meeting management platform with tools, resources, and training.
Unions and health authorities developed a project plan for the OHS Resource Centre more than 10 years ago. In 2023-2024, SWITCH BC, in partnership with unions and employers, used that plan to begin building the platform. In 2025-2026, we implemented the OHS Resource Centre at four health authorities, developed a robust multi-modal training program, and continued to expand the features of the platform to better support JOHSCs. All health authorities will be using the OHS Resource Centre in the coming year and access for affiliates is in the planning stages.
Action We Are Taking
The OHS Resource Centre is now supporting more than 84,000 health workers, through 247 committees, and 2,853 committee members who are using the platform across B.C. Ninety-six per cent of participating health authority JOHSCs are using the platform.
In 2025-2026, SWITCH BC focused on implementation, training, strengthening adoption, supporting users, and improving platform functionality through responsive, hands-on service. The team resolved 889 help desk requests, attended 88 meetings to provide committee training, and facilitated 48 question-and-answer sessions to help committees integrate the platform into their regular work. Training videos supporting self-directed learning have been viewed 21,047 times, demonstrating strong interest in flexible learning supports.
Our expert advisory pilot provided direct and ongoing support to 17 JOHSCs, helping committees build confidence in using the platform and managing their JOHSC work, while generating insights to guide future training and resource development.
Implementation and Rollout Across Health Authorities
Implementation of the OHS Resource Centre has been successful because of balanced advice from health employers and unions. They provide guidance on how the new platform affects workers, the health system, regulation and legislation, and collective agreements.
→ Providence Health Care (PHC)
100% of their committees are actively using the platform. As the first adopters of the OHS Resource Centre, PHC committees helped shape 10 key enhancements to improve user experience.
→ Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH)
85% and using a phased rollout approach.
→ Island Health
100% of its committees are using the OHS Resource Centre. Users report that the platform is easy to use and helpful for supporting monthly meetings.
→ Interior Health
99% of its JOHSCs are on the platform with the highest number
of individuals logged-in and using the system of any of the health authorities.
→ Fraser Health
implementation planning is underway for a May 2026 launch.
Training, Support, Data, and Continuous Improvement
Training and support have been key to the program’s success. SWITCH BC continues to add new online resources, including quick-reference guides, updated manuals, and support materials that work alongside live training sessions.
We are also improving the platform with our development partner, OHS Solutions. This includes making it easier to use and adding new reporting features. New dashboards will track safety indicators, training activities, and trends in incidents and investigations to help committees plan and improve workplace safety.
Work is also underway to expand platform functionality to include:
- Training and Annual Education
- Written Recommendations (21-day response tracking)
- Annual Evaluations
- Enhanced Reporting and Analytics Capabilities