Category: Safety

Creating Safe Spaces at Work

Creating safe spaces for staff is essential for improving employee well-being and effectiveness. A “safe space” is
more than just a hazard-free physical work environment; they are work spaces and teams where employees can feel psychologically safe, respected, and supported.

Here’s why creating “safe spaces” matter:

• Physical Safety: Staff face workplace hazards, exposure to illnesses, and physical strain. A safe environment minimizes these risks, protecting one’s health and ability to work effectively.
• Emotional Well-being: The demands of care-giving can lead to stress, burnout, and emotional exhaustion. A supportive environment helps mitigate these challenges and promotes mental health.
• Team Morale and Retention: Employees perform better when they feel valued and respected. Safe spaces reduce stress, foster teamwork, and help retain experienced staff.

Steps to Create Safe Spaces for Staff

• Promote Open Communication: Encourage staff to voice concerns, share feedback, and report incidents without fear of retaliation. Reinforce safe communication channels such OHS committee meetings or team check ins.
• Foster Inclusion and Respect: Cultivate a workplace culture that respects diversity and promotes belonging. Recognize and call out all forms of discrimination or harassment.
• Support Work-Life Balance: Encourage staff to take breaks and provide access to mental health resources. Ensuring staff are rested and supported at work improves morale and reduces burnout.
• Monitor and Adjust Policies: Continuously evaluate workplace safety measures and policies based on staff
  feedback and incident reporting.

A Shared Responsibility

Creating and maintaining safe spaces is an intentional and collaborative effort. Management, supervisors, and team members must work together to ensure a supportive and thriving work environment. By prioritizing this effort, we not only protect each other but also empower our workforce to provide the highest standard of care.

 

Additional Resources:

Headversity x Bethany

Not Myself Today Login Guide

Healthcare Excellence CanadaFor more information, please contact:

Lesley MacKinnon
Manager, Safety
Lesley.Mackinnon@BethanySeniors.com

Or

Site OHS Committee Chair or RepresentativeTelus Health supports employee health and well-being.

Bethany employees have access to a wide range of resources, such as:

• Telus Health Blog
• Webinars and Events
• 24/7 Specialist Counselling

Telus Health

username: bcs
Password: EAP
Phone: 1-877-207-8833
Phone App: Telus Health One

Seasonal Hazards: Prioritizing Safety

As the holidays approach, it’s important to focus on safety to protect residents, staff, and visitors. Seasonal hazards like icy conditions, festive decorations, and winter illnesses require extra vigilance in long-term care.

Preventing Slips and Falls

Winter weather increases the risk of falls. Mitigate hazards by:

• Clearing ice and snow: Ensure walkways are regularly treated.
• Keeping floors dry: Use absorbent mats and promptly address spills.
• Encouraging safe footwear: Promote slip-resistant shoes for
  staff and residents.

Fire Safety During Festivities

Holiday decorations can introduce fire risks. Stay safe by:

• Using LED lights and flameless candles: Avoid open flames and overheating bulbs.
• Checking electrical equipment: Replace damaged cords and prevent outlet overloading.
• Maintaining clear exits: Ensure decorations don’t block fire alarms or sprinklers.

Preventing Illness Spread

• The flu season coincides with the holidays. Protect everyone by:
• Encouraging vaccinations: Promote flu and COVID-19 boosters.
• Reinforcing hygiene: Provide hand sanitizers and emphasize handwashing.
• Setting visitor guidelines: Advise unwell visitors to reschedule or connect virtually.

Supporting Mental Well-Being

The holidays can be emotionally challenging for residents and staff.

• Promote connections: Plan group activities like music therapy or storytelling.
• Offer staff support: Share stress management tools and Employee Assistance Program (EAP) resources.

By taking these steps, we can ensure a safe, festive, and healthy environment for all. Let’s make this December a season of care, community, and commitment to safety.

 

Additional Resources:

Winter Safety Tips

Headversity x Bethany

Not Myself Today Login GuideFor more information, please contact:

Lesley MacKinnon
Manager, Safety
Lesley.Mackinnon@BethanySeniors.com

Or

Site OHS Committee Chair or RepresentativeTelus Health supports employee health and well-being.

Bethany employees have access to a wide range of resources, such as:

• Telus Health Blog
• Webinars and Events
• 24/7 Specialist Counselling

Telus Health

username: bcs
Password: EAP
Phone: 1-877-207-8833
Phone App: Telus Health One

Saving money on groceries isn’t just about buying cheaper items; it’s also about maximizing what you already have. In Canada, approximately 63% of the food Canadians throw away could have been eaten, according to the National Zero Waste Council. This waste not only harms the environment but also costs the average Canadian household over $1,100 each year.

Plan Your Meals and Shop with a List – One of the most effective ways to reduce waste and cut costs is meal planning. Planning meals for the week helps limit unnecessary purchases, making it easier to stick to a shopping list. According to a report by Love Food Hate Waste Canada, careful planning can help families save up to $600 annually by ensuring they buy only what they need.

Adopt a First In, First Out (FIFO) System – Rotating your stock is another way to reduce waste. When new groceries are brought home, place older items in front and the newer ones behind. This “First In, First Out” method prevents foods from getting buried and forgotten. A study by Dalhousie University and the University of Guelph highlights that simple strategies like FIFO can lead to substantial reductions in food waste.

Get Creative with Leftovers – In Canada, about 30% of food wasted in households consists of leftovers. The trick is to get creative and repurpose them. For example, last night’s roasted chicken can become the filling for sandwiches or wraps, and aging fruits can be blended into smoothies. The Love Food Hate Waste Canada initiative suggests making new meals from leftovers to save money and reduce waste.

Understand Expiry Dates – Confusion over “best before” and “expiry” dates often leads to unnecessary disposal of still-edible food. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency clarifies that “best before” indicates quality, not safety. Monitoring these dates and using foods accordingly helps cut down on waste.

Reducing food waste not only benefits your wallet but also the environment. By planning meals, storing food properly, and repurposing leftovers, Canadians can save money and contribute to sustainability. It’s a small effort with a big payoff.

Additional Resources:

Still Good to EatFor more information, please contact:

Lesley MacKinnon
Manager, Safety
Lesley.Mackinnon@BethanySeniors.com

Or

Site OHS Committee Chair or RepresentativeTelus Health supports employee health and well-being.

Bethany employees have access to a wide range of resources, such as:

• Telus Health Blog
• Webinars and Events
• 24/7 Specialist Counselling

Telus Health

username: bcs
Password: EAP
Phone: 1-877-207-8833
Phone App: Telus Health One

Celebrating Healthy Workplace Month!

Life often brings storms—those moments of overwhelming stress, challenges, or unexpected events that leave us feeling unmoored. Whether it’s a work crisis, a personal loss, or an unforeseen obstacle, the chaos can be mentally and emotionally draining. Yet, in the eye of the storm, there is always the possibility of calm. Learning how to find this inner stillness can make all the difference in how we navigate life’s inevitable turbulences.

One of the most effective ways to find calm during life’s storms is through mindfulness. This practice allows you to stay grounded by focusing on the present moment, observing your thoughts without judgment. When a situation feels out of control, mindfulness invites you to regain your center by concentrating on what is immediately in front of you—your breath, a sound, or a physical sensation. This simple shift in attention can help quiet the mental chatter and bring a sense of clarity.

Another powerful tool for finding calm is acceptance. Often, our inner turmoil comes not from the storm itself, but from our resistance to it. We want things to be different, better, or easier. By accepting the situation as it is, even if it’s uncomfortable or painful, we can free up mental and emotional energy. Acceptance doesn’t mean giving up; it means acknowledging the reality of your circumstances and choosing how to respond rather than react. This shift can create a sense of peace, even amid chaos.

Self-compassion is equally vital. During stressful times, we tend to be our own harshest critics, blaming ourselves for not doing enough or not being strong enough. Practicing self-compassion means treating yourself with the same kindness you’d offer a friend. It’s okay to not have all the answers or to struggle. By being gentle with yourself, you create space for calm to emerge naturally.

Lastly, finding calm often involves seeking perspective. In the heat of a storm, everything can feel urgent and overwhelming. Stepping back and viewing the situation from a wider lens helps to remind you that this moment, no matter how difficult, is temporary. Over time, most storms pass, and what remains is your resilience and growth.

Finding calm in the middle of your storm isn’t about avoiding challenges but learning to navigate them with grace, patience, and clarity.

Additional Resources:

Not Myself Today

Headversity

Access Mental Health

Canadian Mental Health AssociationFor more information, please contact:

Lesley MacKinnon
Manager, Safety
Lesley.Mackinnon@BethanySeniors.com

Or

Site OHS Committee Chair or RepresentativeTelus Health supports employee health and well-being.

Bethany employees have access to a wide range of resources, such as:

• Telus Health Blog
• Webinars and Events
• 24/7 Specialist Counselling

Telus Health

username: bcs
Password: EAP
Phone: 1-877-207-8833
Phone App: Telus Health One

September is Suicide Awareness Month

Long-term care workers are essential to our healthcare system, providing critical support to vulnerable populations. However, the demands of their work can significantly affect their mental health. It is crucial to prioritize well-being and create a supportive work environment. Here are some key actions workers can take to support their mental health and that of their colleagues:

Speak Up About Mental Health – Openly discussing mental health is vital in breaking the stigma. Workers should feel empowered to share their feelings with trusted colleagues, supervisors, or mental health professionals. Speaking up not only helps you but also encourages others to seek help and promotes a culture of support.

Recognize Signs of Distress – Recognizing the signs of mental distress, such as mood changes, withdrawal, or physical symptoms like fatigue, is essential for early intervention. Early recognition allows for timely support and encourages those affected to seek help.

Utilize Available Resources – Take advantage of resources such as Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) that provide confidential support and connect you with professionals who can help with mental health challenges.

Build a Support Network – A strong support network, both inside and outside of work, is vital. Form or join peer support groups at work and maintain connections with family and friends who can provide emotional support and perspective. A support network reduces isolation and fosters understanding.

Practice Self-Care – Self-care is essential in a high-stress job. Make time for activities that help you relax, such as exercise or meditation, and prioritize your physical health by getting enough sleep, eating well, and staying hydrated.

Reach Out for Help When Needed – If you or a colleague is in distress, seek professional help immediately. There is no shame in asking for help—taking action can save lives.

By taking these steps, we can support mental health and prevent suicide among long-term care workers. Remember, you are not alone, and help is always available. Suicide is preventable. For more information

 

Additional Resources:

Not Myself Today

HeadversityFor more information, please contact:

Lesley MacKinnon
Manager, Safety
Lesley.Mackinnon@BethanySeniors.com

Or

Site OHS Committee Chair or RepresentativeTelus Health supports employee health and well-being.

Bethany employees have access to a wide range of resources, such as:

• Telus Health Blog
• Webinars and Events
• 24/7 Specialist Counselling

Telus Health

username: bcs
Password: EAP
Phone: 1-877-207-8833
Phone App: Telus Health One

Near miss reporting is a crucial practice in any workplace that prioritizes safety and continuous improvement. A near miss is an unplanned event that did not result in injury, illness, or damage—but had the potential to do so. Properly identifying, reporting, and analyzing near misses can significantly enhance workplace safety and prevent future incidents.

Why Near Miss Reporting Matters

1. Proactive Hazard Identification: Near misses provide an opportunity to identify and rectify potential hazards before they result in actual harm. By reporting near misses, employees help the organization proactively address risks, enhancing overall safety.
2. Creating a Safety Culture: Encouraging near miss reporting fosters a culture of safety and accountability. When employees feel comfortable reporting near misses without fear of blame or punishment, it promotes openness and a shared commitment to improving safety in the workplace.
3. Preventing Future Incidents: Analyzing near misses helps identify patterns and underlying causes of potential accidents. This analysis can lead to the implementation of corrective actions and preventive measures, ultimately reducing the likelihood of future incidents.

Near miss reporting is an essential component of a comprehensive safety program. By identifying and addressing potential hazards before they result in harm, organizations can significantly improve workplace safety. Cultivating a culture that encourages near miss reporting, simplifying the reporting process, educating employees, thoroughly analyzing reports, and recognizing contributions are key steps in making near miss reporting effective. Prioritizing this practice not only protects employees but also contributes to a more resilient and proactive organizational safety culture.

 

Additional Resources:

Not Myself Today

HeadversityFor more information, please contact:

Lesley MacKinnon
Manager, Safety
Lesley.Mackinnon@BethanySeniors.com

Or

Site OHS Committee Chair or RepresentativeTelus Health supports employee health and well-being.

Bethany employees have access to a wide range of resources, such as:

• Telus Health Blog
• Webinars and Events
• 24/7 Specialist Counselling

Telus Health

username: bcs
Password: EAP
Phone: 1-877-207-8833
Phone App: Telus Health One

Embracing Self-Care as Psychological PPE

On July 24th we celebrate International Self-Care Day, an important reminder for us to prioritize well-being. Psychological PPE refers to strategies and practices we use to protect our mental and emotional well-being, just as physical PPE protects us from physical harms, self-care acts as psychological PPE. For those in the long-term care sector, these practices are crucial to maintaining resilience and providing high-quality care.

• Practicing mindfulness or meditation can enhance your emotional resilience and reduce stress. Simple breathing exercises or mindfulness apps can be helpful tools.
• Engage with colleagues, friends, or mental health professionals for support. A robust support network can provide emotional relief and practical advice.
• Learning to say no and delegating tasks when necessary is crucial. Setting clear boundaries prevents overcommitment and helps manage stress levels.
• Pursue activities you enjoy outside of work to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Hobbies can provide a sense of fulfillment and joy.

Psychological PPE is just as important as physical PPE, psychological PPE is necessary to protect your mental and emotional health. Try implementing small changes first, simple daily adjustments can significantly impact your well-being and ability to care for others. Building a support network so that when times are tough you can lean on colleagues, friends, and professionals for support and guidance.

On July 24th, let’s commit to integrating self-care – our own psychological PPE – into our lives. By prioritizing our mental and emotional health, we can ensure that we can continue to provide compassionate and effective care. Remember, self-care is not a one-time effort but a continuous process essential for long-term resilience and well-being.

 

Additional Resources:

Not Myself Today – Fostering Positive Workplace CultureFor more information, please contact:

Lesley MacKinnon
Manager, Safety
Lesley.Mackinnon@BethanySeniors.com

Or

Site OHS Committee Chair or RepresentativeTelus Health supports employee health and well-being.

Bethany employees have access to a wide range of resources, such as:

• Telus Health Blog
• Webinars and Events
• 24/7 Specialist Counselling

Telus Health

username: bcs
Password: EAP
Phone: 1-877-207-8833
Phone App: Telus Health One

In the workplace, it is critically important to have an emergency response plan. Plans such as these are essential for ensuring the safety of both our residents and staff, keeping services running smoothly, and protecting important resources. As an employee, understanding and learning about these plans is part of your OHS responsibility and can make a huge difference when an emergency happens.

Keeping Residents and Staff Safe

First and foremost, the main goal of an emergency response plan is to keep everyone safe. In our facilities, residents are vulnerable and have complex health needs. Knowing what to do in emergencies like fires, medical crises, or natural disasters is something we all need to take seriously. Regular practice through table tops exercises, and practice drills ensures that everyone remains calm and knows exactly what to do when a real emergency happens.

Ensuring Continuity of Care

Emergencies can disrupt the care that residents need. A good emergency response plan will help minimize disruption to that care. As employees of Bethany, we play a key role by following established emergency protocols and ensuring that care to residents continues even in an emergency.

Protecting Important Resources

Protecting medical records, medications, and equipment is also important. Emergency plans include steps for safeguarding these resources such as in a cyberattack, quick action can prevent the loss of sensitive medical information can help protect residents’ confidential data and keep the facility running smoothly.

Building a Resilient Workplace

Well-prepared staff can make the workplace more resilient when emergencies occur in the future. This means being able to recover quicker and return to normal operations after an event. By participating in training and staying updated on applicable emergency procedures, we create a culture of readiness. Engaged and prepared employees can take the lead in a crisis, support our colleagues and ultimately, those in the communities we serve. Having a proactive attitude makes emergency responses more effective and helps all of us bounce back faster.

Meeting Legal Requirements

Having and following emergency response plans also helps Bethany comply with applicable laws and regulations. By following these rules, we ensure that the facility remains safe and operational for those we serve.

In summary, emergency preparedness is not something to take lightly, it is essential for safety, continuity of care, resource protection, resilience, and legal compliance. As employees of Bethany, understanding and practicing these plans is an expectation of all of us. It ensures your safety and the safety and well-being of those in our care. Being prepared means you will act confidently and effectively when it matters most.

To learn more, visit the following resources:

Alberta Government – Emergency Response Planning Kit

CCSA – Element 8: Emergency Response PlanningFor more information, please contact:

Lesley MacKinnon
Manager, Safety
Lesley.Mackinnon@BethanySeniors.com

Or

Site OHS Committee Chair or RepresentativeTelus Health supports employee health and well-being.

Bethany employees have access to a wide range of resources, such as:

• Telus Health Blog
• Webinars and Events
• 24/7 Specialist Counselling

Telus Health

username: bcs
Password: EAP
Phone: 1-877-207-8833
Phone App: Telus Health One

#CompassionConnects

May 6 to 12, 2024, is the Canadian Mental Health Association’s (CMHA) Mental Health Week.

This year’s Mental Health Week theme is #CompassionConnects, centred on the healing power of compassion. Compassion isn’t just about being kind to others, it’s about extending that same kindness to ourselves.

To learn more, visit the following resources:

What is Compassion?

The Practice of Self-Compassion

The Mental Health Impacts of Compassion

Creating Compassionate Workplace CulturesFor more information, please contact:

Lesley MacKinnon
Manager, Safety
Lesley.Mackinnon@BethanySeniors.com

Or

Site OHS Committee Chair or RepresentativeTelus Health supports employee health and well-being.

Bethany employees have access to a wide range of resources, such as:

• Telus Health Blog
• Webinars and Events
• 24/7 Specialist Counselling

Telus Health

username: bcs
Password: EAP
Phone: 1-877-207-8833
Phone App: Telus Health One

For more information, please contact:

Lesley MacKinnon
Manager, Safety
Lesley.Mackinnon@BethanySeniors.com

Or

Site OHS Committee Chair or RepresentativeTelus Health supports employee health and well-being.

Bethany employees have access to a wide range of resources, such as:

• Telus Health Blog
• Webinars and Events
• 24/7 Specialist Counselling

Telus Health

username: bcs
Password: EAP
Phone: 1-877-207-8833
Phone App: Telus Health One