Joint Occupational Health & Safety (JOHS) Committee

What is a JOHS committee?

A Joint Occupational Health & Safety (JOHS) committee consists of worker and employer reps working together to create and promote safe and healthy workplaces. 

The duties and functions of JOHS committees are listed in the Workers Compensation Act and in our collective agreements.

JOHS committees meet at least monthly. The number of worker reps on each committee must be equal to or greater than the number of employer reps. 

Why are JOHS committees important?

JOHS committees are a cornerstone for effective health and safety programs, providing a forum for collaboration, consultation, and participation at the workplace. 

JOHS committees guarantee you the right to participate in health and safety issues at your worksite. It’s through these committees that you and your co-workers can offer frontline solutions to make our workplaces safer and healthier. 

How is BCNU involved?

To be effective, JOHS committee members need education and training on a wide range of issues. BCNU's OHS department offers a helpful one-day course for JOHS committee members, and assists them with research and problem-solving.

For further information about Joint Occupational Health and Safety (JOHS) committees such as functions, investigations, inspections, 21-day recommendation letters, and education, please contact healthandsafety@bcnu.org.