برنامه ارگونومیک پیاده سازی پیوسته (EPIC): ادغام بهداشت و ایمنی - فرایند ارزیابی در بخش بهداشت و درمان

Introduction This article presents a health and safety intervention model and the use of process evaluation to assess a participatory ergonomic intervention. Method The effectiveness of the Ergonomic Program Implementation Continuum (EPIC) was assessed at six healthcare pilot sites in Ontario, Canada. The model provided a framework to demonstrate evaluation findings. Results Participants reported that EPIC was thorough and identified improvements related to its use. Participants believed the program contributed to advancing an organizational culture of safety (COS). Main barriers to program uptake included resistance to change and need for adequate funding and resources. The dedication of organizational leaders and consultant coaches was identified as essential to the program's success.

This article presents a health and safety intervention model and the use of process evaluation to assess a participatory ergonomic intervention.

The health and safety intervention model is a structured yet flexible guide for healthcare organizations to implement a particular health and safety intervention. In the case of this evaluation, the intervention was ergonomics-based and used the EPIC program developed by the PSHSA. Results of the evaluation indicate that EPIC, using a PE framework, was successful for the six participating organizations. The process evaluation contributed to the evidence supporting strong leadership and staff involvement, which strengthens the accountability and internal responsibility features of a PE approach. The use of expert PSHSA consultants to deliver the educational workshops and support the organizations throughout the implementation phase was paramount to its success. The findings not only contribute to the evidence-based knowledge of health and safety interventions and PE in general, they also demonstrate how PE can influence staff safety and wellness in the healthcare sector. Furthermore, the findings suggest that the PE approach and EPIC present great opportunities for the future.