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Community Social Services Health and Safety Association of BC

Tag: Health and Safety

  • Return-to-Work Coordinator Training (Virtual) – January 28 -29

    Return-to-Work Coordinator Training (Virtual) – January 28 -29

    This two-day, three-hour instructor-led virtual training equips Return-to-Work Coordinators with the tools, strategies, and expert guidance to support injured workers through every stage of recovery. Learn proactive approaches, effective communication with WorkSafeBC, and real-world planning techniques to foster successful, sustainable returns to work.

    Event Dates: 

    Day 1: January 28th – 9:00AM – 12:00 PM PST
    Day 2: January 29th – 9:00AM – 12:00 PM PST

    Learning Objectives:

    • Apply a proactive approach to RTW and support an injured worker starting from the moment of injury
    • Learn how to communicate effectively with WorkSafeBC throughout the return-to-work process, with a focus on supporting mental and physical health claims.
    • Identify and provide suitable and/or alternate work that aligns with an injured worker’s functional abilities.
    • Implement strategies to maintain the injured worker’s connection to the workplace during recovery.
    • Develop, monitor, and adjust effective stay-at-work and return-to-work plans.

    Key topics include:

    • The four stages of the RTW process.
    • Benefits of early intervention, starting from the time of injury.
    • Differences between suitable and alternate duties.
    • Categorizing tasks as light, medium, or heavy.
    • Creating suitable work offers that match worker abilities.
    • Communicating with WorkSafeBC.
    • Developing and monitoring stay-at-work/RTW plans.
    • Troubleshooting challenges post-return.

    Participants will complete self-assessments and have the option to take a quiz. A follow-up coaching session (60-90 minutes) will be scheduled four weeks after the course to review your application of the material and address any questions.

    Facilitators:

    • Rachelle Grace, RTW Specialist and Registered Nurse with 20+ years of experience in occupational health, injury management, and consultation services at WorkSafeBC.
    • Heather Miller, BN, RN, RTW Specialist Nurse with over 12 years of experience in injury management and workplace reintegration, currently with WorkSafeBC’s Consultation and Education Services.

    Target Audience:

    • For Supervisors, Managers, H&S Pros Disability and Claims Managers

    This course will provide you with the expertise to manage RTW effectively and create a supportive environment for injured workers. Register today to gain practical skills for RTW success!

    Please note: This course is available to CSSHSA member organizations only. To inquire about membership, please contact us at training@csshsa.ca.

  • Building a Safer, Healthier Workplace: 5 Ways to Show Real Commitment to Safety and Wellness

    Building a Safer, Healthier Workplace: 5 Ways to Show Real Commitment to Safety and Wellness

    True organizational commitment to safety and well-being means creating a culture where everyone, from senior leaders to frontline staff, understands that safety is everyone’s responsibility. It’s about weaving safety into everyday decisions, conversations, and values—not just policies.

    When it comes to running a successful organization, few things matter more than keeping your people safe and well. Workplace safety and well-being isn’t just about meeting regulations—it’s about showing genuine care for the people who make your organization thrive.

    When employees feel protected, supported, and valued, they’re more engaged, productive, and loyal. Here’s how to make that kind of culture a reality.

    1. Lead by Example

    Leadership sets the tone. When leaders model safe behavior, it sends a clear message that safety isn’t optional—it’s essential.

    That means showing up for safety meetings, participating in safety training, and following the same rules as everyone else. It also means being transparent when things go wrong and demonstrating accountability.

    In a recent CSSHSA pilot on musculoskeletal injury prevention on transfers and repositioning best practices, managers and staff jointly participated in training and identified ways to troubleshoot complex situations for individuals they support. It was a great example of how safety training can build team culture and engagement.

    Employees notice what leaders do far more than what they say. When leaders prioritize safety, others naturally follow.

    2. Make Safety Part of the Business Strategy

    Safety shouldn’t compete with productivity—it should drive it.

    Integrate safety and wellness objectives into your business strategy, budgets, and performance metrics. Track safety outcomes alongside operational results. Leading indicators such as number of staff trained on violence prevention or participation in workplace mental health programs to name a couple of types of indicators. When safety is linked to business goals, it reinforces that a safe, healthy workplace is a sign of success—not an obstacle to it. Tracking safety objectives makes good business too – Learn more about WorkSafeBC experience rating.

    3. Invest in Training and Education

    Providing ongoing training is one of the strongest indicators of genuine commitment. Go beyond basic compliance training to include interactive sessions, scenario-based learning, and workshops focused on mental health and stress management. Investment in training is a good way to drive improvements to an organization’s WCB experience rating. Learn more about CSSHSA Learning Centre and how we are supporting social services sector wit best practices in education and training.

    Well-trained employees are confident, capable, and far more likely to identify and address hazards before they become incidents.

    4. Empower Employees to Speak Up

    A truly safe workplace thrives on open communication. Employees should feel free to raise safety concerns, report hazards, and suggest improvements—without fear of blame or retaliation.

    Establish anonymous reporting channels, create joint health and safety committees, and regularly invite feedback. When employees feel heard, they become active partners in maintaining a safe workplace. Learn more about Psychological Health and Safety in the workplace.

    5. Recognize and Celebrate Safety Success

    Recognition fuels motivation. Acknowledge individuals and teams who go above and beyond to promote safety and wellness.

    Simple gestures—like thank-you notes, certificates, or shoutouts in team meetings—reinforce that safety is valued and appreciated. Recognition builds pride, strengthens culture, and helps keep safety top of mind across the organization. Watch our past Webinar on Building a Culture of Recognition.

    Final Thoughts

    Commitment to workplace safety and wellness is more than a checklist—it’s a reflection of your organization’s values.

    When safety is integrated into every decision and interaction, it sends a clear message: we care about our people. That commitment not only prevents injuries and stress—it builds trust, engagement, and long-term success.

    Because at the end of the day, a safe workplace isn’t just good for people—it’s good for business.

  • Introduction to JOHSC – November 19 – Victoria

    Introduction to JOHSC – November 19 – Victoria

    This one-day (8-hour, in-person) course covers the essentials for all new health and safety committee members and serves as an introduction to Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committees.

    Learning objectives:

    • Outline your role and scope as a JOHSC member
    • Name sections of WSBC regulation, guidelines, and Workers Compensation Act relevant to JOHSC members
    • Describe the role of the JOHSC member in the work refusal process
    • Examine the role of JOHSC members in workplace inspections, incident investigation, hazard identification and risk assessment

    This course meets WorkSafeBC OHS Regulatory requirements (Section 3.27).

    Topics covered in the course:

    • The structure of health and safety in British Columbia
    • Roles and Responsibilities
    • Health and Safety Rights
    • What is expected of a health and safety committee?
    • Roles and Responsibilities
    • Duties and Functions
    • Committee Terms of Reference
    • Committee Evaluations
    • Hazard identification, risk assessment and control
    • Ergonomics, is it an issue?
    • Psychological wellness: why do we need to talk about this?
    • Inspections
    • Investigations

    Course Instructor(s):

    Savanna Rutkowski, OHS Advisor, CSSHSA

    Jackie Lee, OHS Advisor, CSSHSA

    Course Length: 8 hours

    Course certificate is provided through CSSHSA Learning Centre.

    Cancellation policy:
    If you are unable to attend this course, you must give CSSHSA a minimum of 3 business days notice (prior to the course date) to qualify for a full refund or rebooking without penalty. Cancellation terms are as follows: notice of 3 or more business days = rebook without penalty, less than 3 days notice = $50 + GST to rebook,

    Lunch is not provided. Bring your own lunch or choose from a multitude of options nearby.

    Cancellation and rebooking policy:

    If you are unable to attend the course, please provide at least three (3) business days’ notice prior to the course date to receive a full refund or rebook at no additional cost.

    Cancellation terms are as follows:

    • 3 or more business days’ notice – eligible for a full refund or complimentary rebooking
    • Less than 3 business days’ notice – a $50 + GST rebooking fee will apply

    Cancellations must be submitted by email to training@csshsa.ca.

    Important Note: A minimum of 8 participants is required for the training to proceed. If fewer than 8 participants are confirmed 3 days prior to the session, the course will be rescheduled and participants will be notified.

    Lunch Information

    Please note that lunch is not provided. Participants are encouraged to bring their own lunch or take advantage of the many nearby dining options.

  • Introduction to JOHSC – October 21 – Kelowna

    Introduction to JOHSC – October 21 – Kelowna

    This one-day (8-hour, in-person) course covers the essentials for all new health and safety committee members and serves as an introduction to Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committees.

    Learning objectives:

    • Outline your role and scope as a JOHSC member
    • Name sections of WSBC regulation, guidelines, and Workers Compensation Act relevant to JOHSC members
    • Describe the role of the JOHSC member in the work refusal process
    • Examine the role of JOHSC members in workplace inspections, incident investigation, hazard identification and risk assessment

    This course meets WorkSafeBC OHS Regulatory requirements (Section 3.27).

    Topics covered in the course:

    • The structure of health and safety in British Columbia
    • Roles and Responsibilities
    • Health and Safety Rights
    • What is expected of a health and safety committee?
    • Roles and Responsibilities
    • Duties and Functions
    • Committee Terms of Reference
    • Committee Evaluations
    • Hazard identification, risk assessment and control
    • Ergonomics, is it an issue?
    • Psychological wellness: why do we need to talk about this?
    • Inspections
    • Investigations

    Course Instructor(s):

    Savanna Rutkowski, OHS Advisor, CSSHSA

    Course Length: 8 hours

    Course certificate is provided through CSSHSA online Learning Centre.

    Cancellation and rebooking policy:

    If you are unable to attend the course, please provide at least three (3) business days’ notice prior to the course date to receive a full refund or rebook at no additional cost.

    Cancellation terms are as follows:

    • 3 or more business days’ notice – eligible for a full refund or complimentary rebooking
    • Less than 3 business days’ notice – a $50 + GST rebooking fee will apply

    Cancellations must be submitted by email to training@csshsa.ca.

    Important Note: A minimum of 8 participants is required for the training to proceed. If fewer than 8 participants are confirmed 3 days prior to the session, the course will be rescheduled and participants will be notified.

    Lunch Information

    Please note that lunch is not provided. Participants are encouraged to bring their own lunch or take advantage of the many nearby dining options.

     

  • Return-to-Work Coordinator Training (Virtual) – October 22 -23

    Return-to-Work Coordinator Training (Virtual) – October 22 -23

    This two-day, three-hour instructor-led virtual training equips Return-to-Work Coordinators with the tools, strategies, and expert guidance to support injured workers through every stage of recovery. Learn proactive approaches, effective communication with WorkSafeBC, and real-world planning techniques to foster successful, sustainable returns to work.

    Event Dates: 

    Day 1: October 22nd- 9:00AM – 12:00 PM PST
    Day 2: October 23rd- 9:00AM – 12:00 PM PST

    Learning Objectives:

    • Apply a proactive approach to RTW and support an injured worker starting from the moment of injury
    • Learn how to communicate effectively with WorkSafeBC throughout the return-to-work process, with a focus on supporting mental and physical health claims.
    • Identify and provide suitable and/or alternate work that aligns with an injured worker’s functional abilities.
    • Implement strategies to maintain the injured worker’s connection to the workplace during recovery.
    • Develop, monitor, and adjust effective stay-at-work and return-to-work plans.

    Key topics include:

    • The four stages of the RTW process.
    • Benefits of early intervention, starting from the time of injury.
    • Differences between suitable and alternate duties.
    • Categorizing tasks as light, medium, or heavy.
    • Creating suitable work offers that match worker abilities.
    • Communicating with WorkSafeBC.
    • Developing and monitoring stay-at-work/RTW plans.
    • Troubleshooting challenges post-return.

    Participants will complete self-assessments and have the option to take a quiz. A follow-up coaching session (60-90 minutes) will be scheduled four weeks after the course to review your application of the material and address any questions.

    Facilitators:

    • Rachelle Grace, RTW Specialist and Registered Nurse with 20+ years of experience in occupational health, injury management, and consultation services at WorkSafeBC.
    • Heather Miller, BN, RN, RTW Specialist Nurse with over 12 years of experience in injury management and workplace reintegration, currently with WorkSafeBC’s Consultation and Education Services.

    Target Audience:

    • For Supervisors, Managers, H&S Pros Disability and Claims Managers

    This course will provide you with the expertise to manage RTW effectively and create a supportive environment for injured workers. Register today to gain practical skills for RTW success!

    Please note: This course is available to CSSHSA member organizations only. To inquire about membership, please contact us at training@csshsa.ca.

  • Mental Health First Aid – September 4 – 5

    Mental Health First Aid – September 4 – 5

    Join us for an engaging and impactful virtual Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Certification Course, designed to equip you with essential skills to assist individuals experiencing a mental health crisis or decline in well-being. This interactive training will take place virtually, from 8:30AM to 12:00PM, on September 4th & 5th, providing you with hands-on techniques to recognize, support, and guide individuals toward recovery.

    Throughout the course, participants will learn how to:

    • Recognize early signs of mental health declines or crises
    • Encourage open discussions about mental health and well-being
    • Guide individuals to appropriate professional or community supports
    • Offer support in mental health or substance use crises
    • Use MHFA actions to maintain your own mental health

    Upon successful completion, participants will receive a Mental Health First Aid certificate from the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC).

    Before attending the virtual training, participants must complete a self-directed online module (Module 1), which introduces key concepts and strategies to be explored in the live training (Modules 2 and 3). The online module takes approximately 2 hours to complete, and proof of completion is required prior to the start of the virtual modules. Completion of Module 1 is mandatory to participate in the virtual course. Failure to complete the online module by the specified deadline will make the participant ineligible for a refund or transfer of registration.

    Important Note: A minimum of 8 participants is required by the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC) for the training to proceed. If fewer than 8 participants are confirmed 48 hours prior to the session, the course will be rescheduled in accordance with MHCC’s group size policy.

    Cancellation Policy:

    • Cancellations must be submitted via email (training@csshsa.ca) at least 5 business days before the scheduled course to receive a refund or reschedule.

    Late cancellations or no-shows are not eligible for refunds or rescheduling.

  • Mental Health First Aid – July 24 – 25

    Mental Health First Aid – July 24 – 25

    Join us for an engaging and impactful virtual Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Certification Course, designed to equip you with essential skills to assist individuals experiencing a mental health crisis or decline in well-being. This interactive training will take place virtually, from 8:30AM to 12:00PM, on July 24th & 25th, providing you with hands-on techniques to recognize, support, and guide individuals toward recovery.

    Throughout the course, participants will learn how to:

    • Recognize early signs of mental health declines or crises
    • Encourage open discussions about mental health and well-being
    • Guide individuals to appropriate professional or community supports
    • Offer support in mental health or substance use crises
    • Use MHFA actions to maintain your own mental health

    Upon successful completion, participants will receive a Mental Health First Aid certificate from the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC).

    Before attending the virtual training, participants must complete a self-directed online module (Module 1), which introduces key concepts and strategies to be explored in the live training (Modules 2 and 3). The online module takes approximately 2 hours to complete, and proof of completion is required prior to the start of the virtual modules. Completion of Module 1 is mandatory to participate in the virtual course. Failure to complete the online module by the specified deadline will make the participant ineligible for a refund or transfer of registration.

    Important Note: A minimum of 8 participants is required by the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC) for the training to proceed. If fewer than 8 participants are confirmed 48 hours prior to the session, the course will be rescheduled in accordance with MHCC’s group size policy.

    Cancellation Policy:

    • Cancellations must be submitted via email (training@csshsa.ca) at least 5 business days before the scheduled course to receive a refund or reschedule.

    Late cancellations or no-shows are not eligible for refunds or rescheduling.

  • Introduction to JOHSC – July 23

    Introduction to JOHSC – July 23

    This one-day (8-hour, in-person) course covers the essentials for all new health and safety committee members and serves as an introduction to Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committees.

    Learning objectives:

    • Outline your role and scope as a JOHSC member
    • Name sections of WSBC regulation, guidelines, and Workers Compensation Act relevant to JOHSC members
    • Describe the role of the JOHSC member in the work refusal process
    • Examine the role of JOHSC members in workplace inspections, incident investigation, hazard identification and risk assessment

    This course meets WorkSafeBC OHS Regulatory requirements (Section 3.27).

    Topics covered in the course:

    • The structure of health and safety in British Columbia
    • Roles and Responsibilities
    • Health and Safety Rights
    • What is expected of a health and safety committee?
    • Roles and Responsibilities
    • Duties and Functions
    • Committee Terms of Reference
    • Committee Evaluations
    • Hazard identification, risk assessment and control
    • Ergonomics, is it an issue?
    • Psychological wellness: why do we need to talk about this?
    • Inspections
    • Investigations

    Course Instructor(s):

    Savanna Rutkowski, OHS Advisor, CSSHSA

    Jackie Lee, OHS Advisor, CSSHSA

    Course Length: 8 hours

    Course certificate is provided.

    Cancellation policy:
    If you are unable to attend this course, you must give CSSHSA a minimum of 3 business days notice (prior to the course date) to qualify for a full refund or rebooking without penalty. Cancellation terms are as follows: notice of 3 or more business days = rebook without penalty, less than 3 days notice = $50 + GST to rebook,

    Lunch is not provided. Bring your own lunch or choose from a multitude of options nearby.

     

  • Return-to-Work Coordinator Training (Virtual) – June 18th, 19th

    Return-to-Work Coordinator Training (Virtual) – June 18th, 19th

    This two-day, three-hour instructor-led virtual training equips Return-to-Work Coordinators with the tools, strategies, and expert guidance to support injured workers through every stage of recovery. Learn proactive approaches, effective communication with WorkSafeBC, and real-world planning techniques to foster successful, sustainable returns to work.

    Event Dates: 

    Day 1: June 18th – 9:00AM – 12:00 PM PST
    Day 2: June 19th – 9:00AM – 12:00 PM PST

    Learning Objectives:

    • Apply a proactive approach to RTW and support an injured worker starting from the moment of injury
    • Learn how to communicate effectively with WorkSafeBC throughout the return-to-work process, with a focus on supporting mental and physical health claims.
    • Identify and provide suitable and/or alternate work that aligns with an injured worker’s functional abilities.
    • Implement strategies to maintain the injured worker’s connection to the workplace during recovery.
    • Develop, monitor, and adjust effective stay-at-work and return-to-work plans.

    Key topics include:

    • The four stages of the RTW process.
    • Benefits of early intervention, starting from the time of injury.
    • Differences between suitable and alternate duties.
    • Categorizing tasks as light, medium, or heavy.
    • Creating suitable work offers that match worker abilities.
    • Communicating with WorkSafeBC.
    • Developing and monitoring stay-at-work/RTW plans.
    • Troubleshooting challenges post-return.

    Participants will complete self-assessments and have the option to take a quiz. A follow-up coaching session (60-90 minutes) will be scheduled four weeks after the course to review your application of the material and address any questions.

    Facilitators:

    • Rachelle Grace, RTW Specialist and Registered Nurse with 20+ years of experience in occupational health, injury management, and consultation services at WorkSafeBC.
    • Heather Miller, BN, RN, RTW Specialist Nurse with over 12 years of experience in injury management and workplace reintegration, currently with WorkSafeBC’s Consultation and Education Services.

    Target Audience:

    • For Supervisors, Managers, H&S Pros Disability and Claims Managers

    This course will provide you with the expertise to manage RTW effectively and create a supportive environment for injured workers. Register today to gain practical skills for RTW success!

  • CSSHSA’s e-Learning Roadmap to Launch

    CSSHSA’s e-Learning Roadmap to Launch

    Investing in health and safety training is key to preventing incidents, boosting efficiency and fostering a positive health and safety culture. Health and safety training empowers employees to identify potential hazards in the workplace, understand safety procedures, and take necessary precautions, ultimately reduce the risk of incidents and injuries, improving employee morale, and ensuring compliance with legal regulations; essentially creating a safer work environment for everyone involved.

    CSSHSA team in collaboration with our Board, Advisory Panel, and Community of Practice have identified a number of priority courses to develop for the Social Services sector. We have also been listening to the various organizations as part of our engagement and presentations to the sector.

    We are happy to report that we are well underway with our efforts. We are now at the stage of meaningful consultation with our members to ensure they reflect all lens’ of the sector (Indigenous lens, accessibility, etc.). We will be testing our Learning Management System (LMS) shortly, we are calling it the Learning Centre. The testing will be performed with our Advisory Panel, our Community of Practice, and we will be reaching out to various CSS organizations to ensure we consult in a meaningful way with our membership. We will be featuring our first 4 draft e-learning courses developed specifically for our sector:

    1. Trauma Informed Practice
    2. Violence Risk Assessment
    3. WHMIS
    4. Workplace Inspections

    Later in the spring, we will also be testing, 4 additional e-learning courses: Musculoskeletal Injury (MSI) Awareness and Prevention, OHS for Leaders, Incident Investigations and Respectful Workplace for Workers. We will also commence the development of violence prevention training in collaboration with SWITHC BC.

    We are planning to open course registration to our member organizations in May. We are looking forward to supporting our sector with high quality education and training and we are excited about this upcoming milestone with our team. We are also grateful for all the support of our various partners, including the employer organizations and unions that have been actively supporting our work for many years. We are also thankful for the support of the health authorities, the Federation of Social Services, WorkSafeBC and the BC Government.