THE EFFECTIVE JHSC
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140-002-07-IGOT © 2013, Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS)
1 877 494 WSPS (9777) | 905 614 1400 | www.wsps.ca
Establish Ground Rules
What Are Ground Rules?
Ground rules establish a code of conduct for everyone to follow during JHSC meetings. They help the
meetings run smoothly. Once the rules are agreed upon, individual members are asked to adhere to them.
Examples of ground rules for meetings
ƒ Will begin and end on time
ƒ Everyone comes prepared
ƒ No interruptions unless there's an emergency
ƒ No cell phones
ƒ Differing opinions are okay
ƒ Strive for consensus
Timetables for Meetings and Inspections
1. Setting the JHSC Meeting Timetable in Advance
This helps make sure everyone can attend by giving lots of notice. Here are some things to take into
consideration when booking meetings in advance:
ƒ Take into consideration different work shifts if you have them
ƒ Ask members to confirm their availability for the dates set
ƒ Ask members to tell their supervisors about these meeting dates
ƒ Hold members accountable for attending these meetings
If members find that the meetings are conflicting with their job and they cannot resolve this with
their supervisor, the co- chairs may need to take the issue to senior management. Remember, it is the
responsibility of the employer to make sure that the JHSC works.
2. Setting the Monthly Workplace Inspection Timetable in Advance
Monthly inspections need to be conducted in your workplace on a set schedule. A designated worker
member of the committee completes the inspection and if possible this member is a certified member.
The member the JHSC designates for inspections does not have to be the same member each time. For
example, if your committee has enough members, consider a rotation schedule so all members have the
opportunity to participate in inspections.
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