Revitalizing Your JHSC: Strategies to Address Underfunding and Misunderstanding

By Michael Matthew — Safety.Inc | Certified Health & Safety Consultant | Operational Risk Management Professional

Workplace safety depends heavily on the effectiveness of the Joint Health and Safety Committee (JHSC). Yet many organizations struggle with JHSCs that seem ineffective or broken. The truth is, these committees are often not broken at all. Instead, they suffer from underfunding, undervaluation, and widespread misunderstanding of their role and potential. This post explores practical ways to revitalize your JHSC by addressing these core issues.

JHSC members discussing safety improvements

Understanding the Real Challenges Facing JHSCs

Many workplaces treat their JHSC as a checkbox exercise rather than a vital safety resource. This attitude leads to:

• Underfunding: Limited budgets restrict training, resources, and time for committee members.

• Undervaluation: Management and workers may see the committee as a formality, not a partner in safety.

• Misunderstanding: Confusion about the committee’s authority and responsibilities weakens its impact.

  
  

These issues create a cycle where the JHSC cannot perform effectively, which then reinforces the perception that it is ineffective or broken.

Why Funding Matters More Than You Think

Funding is the foundation for a strong JHSC. Without adequate resources, committees cannot:

• Access proper training to stay current on safety regulations and best practices.

• Conduct thorough workplace inspections and hazard assessments.

• Implement safety initiatives or follow up on recommendations.

• Allocate time for members to participate fully without sacrificing their regular duties.

  
  

For example, a manufacturing plant that increased its JHSC budget by 30% saw a 25% reduction in workplace incidents within a year. This improvement came from better training and more frequent safety audits.

Changing How Your Organization Values the JHSC

Recognition and respect from both management and workers are essential. When the JHSC is valued:

• Members feel motivated and take ownership of safety improvements.

• Communication between workers and management improves.

• Safety concerns are addressed promptly and seriously.

  
  

To build this culture, leadership must visibly support the committee by attending meetings, acting on recommendations, and celebrating safety successes. Workers should also be encouraged to bring concerns to the JHSC without fear of reprisal.

Clarifying the Role and Authority of the JHSC

Misunderstanding the committee’s role leads to confusion and frustration. The JHSC is not just a reporting body; it has specific powers and responsibilities, including:

• Identifying hazards and recommending corrective actions.

• Participating in workplace inspections.

• Reviewing incident reports and investigating causes.

• Promoting health and safety awareness among workers.

  
  

Clear communication about these duties helps everyone understand what the committee can and should do. Providing written guidelines and regular training sessions can reinforce this understanding.

Practical Steps to Revitalize Your JHSC

Here are actionable strategies to strengthen your committee:

• Secure dedicated funding for training, inspections, and safety initiatives.

• Schedule regular meetings with clear agendas and follow-up on action items.

• Provide ongoing education for members on safety laws and best practices.

• Encourage open communication between workers, committee members, and management.

• Recognize and reward the committee’s contributions publicly.

• Use data to drive decisions, such as tracking incident trends and measuring the impact of safety measures.

• Involve the JHSC early in planning changes that affect workplace safety.

  
  

Examples of Successful JHSC Revitalization

• A construction company introduced a small budget for JHSC members, allowing them to dedicate time without financial loss. This led to more thorough site inspections and a 40% drop in accidents.

• A healthcare facility created a monthly safety newsletter authored by the JHSC, improving awareness and reporting of hazards.

• A warehouse implemented a digital platform for workers to submit safety concerns directly to the JHSC, speeding up response times.

  
  

Building a Stronger Safety Culture Through Your JHSC

Revitalizing your JHSC is not just about fixing a committee; it’s about building a culture where safety is a shared responsibility. When the committee is properly funded, valued, and understood, it becomes a powerful force for preventing injuries and improving workplace well-being.

Take the first step by assessing your current JHSC’s resources, support, and clarity of purpose. Engage leadership and workers in a conversation about how to strengthen this vital part of your safety program. The results will benefit everyone.