Leading Indicators in Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems in Healthcare: A Quasi-Experimental Longitudinal Study.

Abstract

To evaluate the feasibility of implementing interventions guided by six leading indicators, and the effectiveness of these interventions on improving employee's perception of their organization's health and safety climate. A quasi-experimental longitudinal design was used in two hospitals. Occupational health and safety management systems (OHSMS) were assessed using the Leading Indicator Assessment Tool. To address the gaps identified in the assessment, tailored interventions were developed, pilot tested, and evaluated. Data were collected pre- and post-interventions. Interventions were developed to improve three leading indicators: senior management commitment, employee involvement, and communication. Overall, both sites supported using leading indicators to guide proactive interventions. Employees' perceptions of the health and safety climate improved at one site only. The results suggest the utilization of leading indicators to assess an organization's current OHSMS, identify areas for improvement, and implement tailored interventions is feasible to support a culture of safety in healthcare.