PILOT
The Role of JOHSCs in PHS
Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committees (JOHSCs) play an important role in protecting and promoting worker health and safety. JOHSC members are already familiar with identifying physical hazards, i.e., slippery floors, broken equipment, chemical exposures, or ergonomic risks. JOHSC members can also identify psychosocial hazards, including high workload or lack of supervisor support.
System vs. Individual
When it comes to workplace psychological health and safety, there are important differences between system-level management (psychosocial hazards) and individual (mental health) supports.
(Psychosocial Hazard Focus)
This is where JOHSCs focus – identifying risks and hazards and recommending controls, just like you do for physical risks and hazards.
- Look for workplace conditions and day‑to‑day activities that could create risks or affect people’s mental health and wellbeing.
- Use inspections, investigations, and regular reviews to identify where risks show up. As well as where things are working well or could be improved.
- Recommend practical actions that help reduce risks and improve psychological health and safety across the workplace.
- Promote psychological health and safety through all interactions within the worksite.
- Bring forth concerns and feedback raised by colleagues.
(Mental Health Focus)
This is important work, usually led by Human Resources, psychological health and safety, and/or wellbeing programs, and leadership.
- Help individual workers cope with stress.
- Provide extended health benefits, Employee and Family Assistance Programs (EFAP), and
- Mental Health First Aid.
- This does not mean providing counseling or therapy unless qualified to do provide such services.
- Provide training on resilience and stress management skills.
- Make accommodations for mental health injuries and illnesses.
Who does what in PHS?
Supporting workplace psychological health and safety is a team effort. Here is where JOHSCs and other health roles work collaboratively in organizations.
| JOHSC Members | Managers/Supervisors | Human Resources /PHS programs/Workplace Health and Safety programs | Workers | |
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| Primary Role in Psychological Health and Safety |
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| Areas of Responsibility |
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| Decision making or scope of influence |
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| Response and reaction time |
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| Key Question | “Is this a system issue affecting multiple workers?” | “How do I address this in my team now and prevent recurrence?” | “What programs support workforce PHS?” | “Am I safe and supported here?” |
| Example Actions |
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| Not Their Role |
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Definitions at a glance
Psychological Health and Safety Management System (PHSMS)
Harm
Hazard
Psychosocial Factors
Psychosocial Hazard