Delivering quality healthcare services means working in safe & healthy environments

This year North American Occupational Safety & Health (NAOSH) Week (www.naosh.ca) is from May 5 - 11 and it's a great opportunity to learn more about the connection between quality healthcare delivery and safe and healthy workplaces.

Every time a BC healthcare worker is injured on the job there's one less person to deliver healthcare services and help their coworkers.

NAOSH Week began in 1997 when Canada, the USA and Mexico agreed to dedicate one week a year to raise awareness about the importance of safety at work, at home and in the community.

At many worksites BCNU stewards will provide opportunities to learn more about the connection between safety and health and the delivery of quality healthcare services.

Here's some things you can learn during NAOSH week:

• Point of Care Risk Assessments (PCRAs) and how to use them to address safety concerns before interacting with patients, residents, or clients
• How to report and resolve health and safety concerns
• Who your steward and/or BCNU Joint Occupational Safety and Health (JOSH) representative is so you can get help to resolve safety and health concerns

NAOSH week is also a great opportunity for stewards and JOSH representatives to learn more about members' health and safety concerns so they can take proactive steps to help resolve problems.

You can join the learning environment during NAOSH week by contacting your worksite steward or Joint OH&S Committee to participate in events at your worksite.