THE EFFECT OF UNIONS ON OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY: A QUALITATIVE STUDY ON ISSUES AND PROPOSED SOLUTIONS WITH YOL-İŞ UNION REPRESENTATIVES

The present study aims to examine the participation of unions in occupational health and safety activities and to provide solutions. Interviews were conducted with a union’s 7 workplace representatives affiliated with the Yol-İş Union and employed in the private sector, and the data obtained were analyzed using the content analysis method. It was found that unions contribute significantly to the occupational health and safety process, and they also support the process by conducting awareness-raising activities such as OHS-related training, translation of books, and distribution of brochures. To enhance effectiveness, it is necessary to add clauses to the Collective Labor Agreements that prioritize health and safety, empower representatives, and grant them authority and oversight in relation to occupational health and safety. It is also suggested as a solution proposal that labor unions should increase their workplace visits and address occupational health and safety issues during these visits.