HRM2000_Module 3: Promoting Employee Health and Safety Through Organizational Culture

Organizational Culture

• Collective understanding of beliefs and values that guide how
  employees act and behave.

• “Personality” of the organization

Employee Engagement

Amount of commitment and dedication an employee has toward the job and the organization

Examples of engagement:

• Volunteering for new projects.

• Bringing in creative ideas to improve processes.

• Speaking positively about the organization.

• Showing strong attendance and low turnover.

• Helping coworkers when not required.

Employees Responsibilities and Rights

An organization I’m familiar with

Emphasizes respect, teamwork, and innovation. These values are shown by:

• Respect: Leaders encourage open communication, diversity, and inclusion.

• Teamwork: Employees work in groups, share ideas, and celebrate success together.

• Innovation: The company invests in training, new technology, and rewards creative solutions.

Effect on employee engagement:

• A supportive culture makes employees feel valued → higher motivation, job satisfaction, and loyalty.

Effect on health and safety:

• A culture of care ensures safety rules are followed and employees report hazards without fear.

• Builds trust, so employees look out for each other’s well-being.

Employer’s Responsibilities in Workplace Health & Safety (Most important)

• Take every precaution to ensure the health and safety of workers (due to diligence)

• Provide training before employees are asked to do new work

• Filling government accident reports

• Provide personal protective equipment (PPE)

• Participate in Workers’ Compensation (WSIB)

Supervisor’s Responsibilities

• Ensure workers comply with occupational health/safety regulations

• Advise/instruct workers about safety

• Must aim to instill workers desire to work safely

• Take action when hazard is present

Employees’ Responsibilities and Rights

• Take reasonable care to protect their own health and safety, and that of coworkers

• Includes wearing protective clothing and equipment and reporting contravention of the law

• Basic rights: To know about the workplace safety hazards, to participate in the OHS process and refuse unsafe work

Protecting Employees Safe and Healthy

• Policies & Training: Regular training on workplace safety, bullying/violence prevention, and emergency response.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Provide confidential counseling and support for stress, mental health, or personal issues.

• Disability Management: Support injured or ill employees with accommodations and return-to-work programs.

• Workplace Security: Cameras, access cards, security staff to prevent violence or intruders.

• Wellness Programs: Exercise sessions, flexible schedules, ergonomic assessments, healthy snacks.

• Encourage Reporting: Make it safe to report hazards, bullying, or stressors without retaliation.

• Promote Positive Culture: Respect, fairness, and recognition reduce stress and improve mental health.