Joint Health and Safety Committee

A joint health and safety committee (JHSC) is a forum for bringing the internal responsibility system into practice as ministry of labour cannot have their inspector placed in every single company. The committee consists of labour and management representatives who meet on a regular basis to deal with health and safety issues. The advantage of a joint committee is that the in-depth practical knowledge of specific tasks (labour) is brought together with the larger overview of company policies, and procedures (management). Another significant benefit is the enhancement of cooperation among all parts of the work force toward solving health and safety problems. It is co-chaired by member of management and workers.

The committee assists the employer to:

•   Recognize workplace hazards
•   Evaluate the risk of accidents/incidents, injuries and illness.
•   Participate in development and implementation of programs to protect the employee’s.
•  Respond to employee complaints and suggestions concerning safety and health.
•   Ensure the maintenance and monitoring of injury and work hazard records.
• Monitor and follow-up hazard reports and recommend action.
• Set up and promote programs to improve employee training and education.
•  Participate in all safety and health inquiries and investigations.

·   Rights of JHSC

•            Right to obtain H&S information from the company
•       Right to be present during testing
•            Right to be informed of all hazards in the workplace
•            Right to inspect the workplace monthly
•            Right to participate in work refusals

http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/hsprograms/hscommittees/whatisa.html