Exploring the implementation of a new voluntary occupational health and safety program in Ontario, Canada: a thematic analysis

Objectives The adoption of voluntary occupational health and safety (OHS) interventions has increased over the last three decades. This research explores the practical implications of implementing a new OHS program designed to appeal to a broad range of firms in Ontario, Canada. It also describes the process of providing findings as real-time evidence to program administrators for early program improvement. Methods Key informant interviews were conducted with 76 individuals from 71 firms enrolled in the program. Data were thematically analyzed with an emphasis on understanding the challenges and successes participants experienced during their first year in the program, as well as why they enrolled and their overall perceptions of the program. Detailed findings from this study were provided to the program’s administrators during its continued rollout. Results The program was well-received and led to early positive changes in OHS. However, there were challenges related to its ‘one-size-fits-all’ nature. Smaller firms with fewer resources, larger firms with more advanced OHS systems and firms with more dynamic working environments faced barriers to participating in the program. Discussion OHS programs meant to appeal to a wide variety of firms can be successful but need to be tailored and responsive to differences in firm size, industry and context. Our findings were used to make changes early in the program’s implementation and highlighted the importance of providing timely evidence to improve outcomes and sustainability of OHS programs.