Picture Source: besafe.ma
I first joined JOHS to make a meaningful impact on the workplace. I appreciate that the JOHS committee is most effective when the JOHS members care about their colleagues. In our 119 location, clientele is diverse and comes from many walks of life. Often, we work closely with individuals who have a history of substance use or criminal histories, thus putting our staff in situations with heightened risk. Not only does the JOHS committee become an integral part of maintaining staff safety concerns, but it is also a presence that provides comfort to staff. Our JOHS committee is safe and confidential, and we let staff know they are welcome to file concerns anonymously. It provides an avenue for staff to express concerns without feeling like they are confronting management.
JOHS has seen quite a few changes since I joined. I think the most noticeable change is the participation of JOHS members. We have worked hard to foster an environment that allows JOHS members to have accountability, which has motivated them to be more active. Some safety items we address include ensuring staff arrangements align with safety best practices, improving air quality, and adding additional safety features and policies in the building.
In my opinion, the best way staff can support JOHS is to understand that we are all one big team. If an issue is affecting you, it most likely is affecting others!
--- Josiah, Co-Chair of TSA 119 JOHS Committee (Union Representative)
I joined the JOHS committee to learn how to support the staff better and contribute to a safer work environment and gain valuable learning experience. As the DTES can be an unpredictable and potentially volatile area to work in, I want to make sure that we are all prepared and knowledgeable in our safety plans. A JOHS committee allows us to have a productive collaborative team that helps maintain a safe work environment. I also believe it contributes to the company culture around safety as it gives our staff piece of mind that things will always be addressed as needed. If staff would like to contribute to the health & safety of the workplace, staff are always welcome to bring repairs or safety concerns to the JOHS!
-- Steve, Co-Chair of TSA 108 JOHS Committee (Employer Representative)