Guides & Toolkits

THE EFFECTIVE JHSC 46 140-002-07-IGOT © 2013, Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS) 1 877 494 WSPS (9777) | 905 614 1400 | www.wsps.ca Trust and Respect Guiding principles establish the framework of trust and respect among team members. The principles must be adhered to in all committee activities. Share Information – Keep Confidences Informed individuals are people who are engaged. They work harder and contribute more. All members of the JHSC team are given access to a full range of pertinent information. The JHSC is bound to keep private any medical or other personal information about a worker that it learns during the course of its duties. Constructive Conflict Conflict occurs when two or more parties have interests that – to some degree – are competing. Conflict – properly worked through – can be an excellent catalyst for change. Problems can be discussed from many points of view. Solutions often may call for collaboration and compromise. Realistically, "conflict" is not a question of "If ". It is a question of "when." Unmanaged conflicts can escalate into disputes, with anger and frustration. By focusing on a process of common interests, almost all conflict can be resolved. ƒ Discuss conflicts in the open ƒ Acknowledge different points of view ƒ Find common interests that people can agree on ƒ If appropriate, dig deeper by asking questions to uncover core, root issues that are contributing to the conflict Roles and Core Skills The JHSC develops flexibility by cross-training members in more than one function. This benefits the team by ensuring understanding of all JHSC functions, back-up coverage, succession and individual enrichment. For example, it is a good idea to certify additional JHSC members over and above the minimum legislated requirement. Not only does this build a bigger platform of expertise on the JHSC; it also ensures that designated members can be seamlessly replaced if they leave the committee. WSPS.CA

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