Evaluating the implementation of a participatory organizational change intervention in long-term care

Reasons for the study

The long-term care sector is fast-paced and demanding, putting workers at significant risk of work-related injuries. Among long-term care workers, musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and slips, trips and falls (STFs) are a major source of injuries. MSDs and STFs account for over 60 per cent of all lost-time claims in Ontario’s health-care sector. The Public Services Health & Safety Association has developed an organizational-level participatory ergonomics program, called “Employees Participating in Change” (EPIC), to reduce the incidence of MSD and STF hazards and injuries in long-term care. IWH researchers are evaluating the implementation of the EPIC program.

Objectives of the study

Target audience

Findings will help determine the benefits, challenges and processes of implementing organizational-level participatory ergonomics programs in long-term care homes to reduce workplace injuries.