Effectiveness of joint health and safety committees: A realist review1. Issue 4 (28th November 2012)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Yassi, Annalee; Lockhart, Karen; Sykes, Mona; Buck, Brad; Stime, Bjorn; Spiegel, Jerry M.
• Is Part Of: American journal of industrial medicine. Volume 56:Issue 4(2013:Apr.)
• Page Start: 424
• Page End: 438
• Publication Date: 2012-11-28
• Subjects: Medicine, Industrial -- Periodicals; Médecine du travail -- Périodiques; 616.9803
• DOI: 10.1002/ajim.22143
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0271-3586

Abstract

<abstract abstract-type="main" xml:lang="en"> <title>Abstract</title> <sec id="abs1-1" sec-type="section"> <title>Background</title> <p>Joint health and safety committees (JHSCs) are widely acknowledged as important to a healthy and safe work environment. However, it is also generally believed that having a JHSC is necessary but not sufficient; the JHSC must be effective.</p> </sec> <sec id="abs1-2" sec-type="section"> <title>Methods</title> <p>A systematic review was undertaken to find empirical studies regarding the effectiveness of JHSCs; realist review methodology was applied to determine context‐mechanism‐outcome patterns. Experts from across Canada and from various sectors and perspectives including government, employers, and unions, were brought together to inform the synthesis.</p> </sec> <sec id="abs1-3" sec-type="section"> <title>Results</title> <p>Thirty‐one studies met inclusion criteria. Mechanisms identified as important determinants of JHSC effectiveness across various jurisdictions include adequate information, education and training; appropriate committee composition; senior management commitment to JHSCs; and especially a clear mandate with a broad scope and corresponding empowerment (through legislation and/or union presence).</p> </sec> <sec id="abs1-4" sec-type="section"> <title>Conclusions</title> <p>Consistent empowerment mechanisms emerge as determinants of successful JHSCs across contexts despite few evidence‐based details for best practice implementation. Intervention research is warranted. Am. J. Ind. Med. 56:424–438, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.</p> </sec> </abstract>