Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committee Basics

Joint Occupational Health and Safety (JOHS) committees are a cornerstone of effective health and safety programs. They facilitate members’ rights to participate collaboratively with the employer in reducing the toll of occupational injury, disease and violence on members. JOHS committees are legally mandated by the Workers Compensation Act and are a provision of our collective agreements. JOHS committees have a range of duties including the ability to inspect workplaces, investigate OHS concerns, and make recommendations to employers. In this interactive course, JOHS committee representatives learn about the crucial role they play in creating and maintaining safe, healthy worksites for all members.

Learning Outcomes

• Describe the appointment process

• List your rights as a worker representative

• Complete your responsibilities as a worker representative

• Participate effectively in a JOHSC meeting

• Reference related legislation to support your worker responsibilities

Course Format

Blended Learning: Online learning activities, and one live session offered virtually or in-person.

Course Requirements

• Active JOHSC Representative

• Mandatory 8-hour education provided by Employer completed

Required: Please send us documentation, such as JOHSC Meeting minutes or your OHS Appointment Letter, that indicates you are an active JOHSC Rep.

Note: Course applications open four months prior to course start, and close 6 weeks prior to course start to allow Members time to request union leave. 

Salary Reimbursement

In order to be receive salary reimbursement for this course, you will need to apply for Union Leave with your employer. Please apply for Union Leave after your application for the course has been approved. You can find the Union Leave Request form on the BCNU website. Learn more about How to submit your Member Expense Form for salary reimbursement.