Interlake-Eastern RHA becomes safety certified by MASH

On March 30th 2023, the Interlake-Eastern RHA became Manitoba’s first health authority to become safety certified.

After years of dedicated effort and a rigorous assessment period with MASH external auditors, IERHA successfully attained SAFE Work certification! IERHA proudly stands as Manitoba’s inaugural regional health authority to achieve the distinction. This recognition underscores the RHA’s commitment to crafting and executing a robust health and safety program that aligns with the standards set forth by both the Manitoba Association for Safety in Healthcare (MASH) and the provincial benchmarks of Manitoba’s SAFE Work Certification.

Tonya Nelson, director of safety programs, with MASH supported IERHA in securing certification. Tonya and the occupational safety and health staff worked closely with 216 committee members who make up 18 workplace safety and health committees across the region.

The occupational safety and health team is now developing an action plan to address and recommendations that came out of the audit. The organization is striving to maintain the momentum from certification and will ensure the need for staff safety spreads across all programs at all times, so it naturally becomes the way of the future.

Photo: At back (L-R): Jacques St. Hilaire, surveyor; Marion Ellis, CEO; Tonya Nelson, director of safety programs, MASH; Cameron Benedictson, IERHA OSH officer; Lea Doomernik, IERHA OSH administrative assistant; Steffan Ojah, IERHA OSH officer; Bonnie Peloski, IERHA WSH committee member representative, Selkirk Offices. At front (L-R): Michelle Gawronsky, surveyor; Quinn Reis, surveyor; Samantha Roberts, IERHA lead occupational safety and health, disability management and regional education; and Alyssa Rowe, IERHA OSH officer.