The provision of healthcare services requires knowledge, commitment, and safety—not only in terms of facilities, equipment, infrastructure, and systems, but also regarding the professionals and staff who accompany the patient at every stage.
JCI accreditation has a strong impact on optimising the institution’s overall performance, not only due to its high standards, based on ensuring safety and excellence in healthcare, but also because of how it fosters collaborative and multidisciplinary work among teams and functional departments.
The interaction between these functional areas during the implementation of JCI standards allows for sustainable and efficient growth, leading to better outcomes in the quality of services provided.
Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) is one of the functional departments that plays an active and direct role, basing its work on three main pillars: reducing and controlling risks, preventing accidents and injuries, and maintaining safe working conditions and environments for all staff.
We develop comprehensive risk assessment programmes and activities, with a particular focus on occupational risks, aimed at improving safety and workplace environments.
Key activities include:
Occupational Risk Assessments – We assess and monitor risks related to facilities, equipment, materials, professionals, and work environments, allowing for timely and preventive interventions.
Incident and Accident Analysis – Each reported occurrence is analysed for risk factors and root causes, enabling us to intervene and eliminate or reduce these risks.
Health Surveillance and Vaccination Promotion – Periodic Occupational Health consultations and diagnostic tests are carried out with the aim of monitoring employee health. This process also involves sharing information on the importance of vaccination as a protective barrier for professionals.
Infection Prevention and Control – We collaborate with other teams to implement hygiene and disinfection protocols, use of personal protective equipment, and infection control procedures to safeguard our professionals and ensure a safe environment.
Safety Procedures – We develop policies, programmes, and work instructions to improve the skills and awareness of our professionals.
Emergency Management – We take part in activities related to various emergency scenarios to prepare teams for situations that require an immediate response.
Additionally, we operate a Risk Management platform — HER+ — which all professionals can access. Here, any event that may compromise safety can be reported, enabling the institution to implement timely action plans and monitor their effectiveness.
The challenge posed by JCI accreditation has led to internal growth. It has encouraged critical thinking and a drive for continuous improvement, while also strengthening communication and the sharing of information and objectives. Altogether, this has led to better interaction and performance across teams.
Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) plays a vital role in promoting a safe and healthy environment, ensuring compliance, and building a relationship of trust within the institution.
Content developed by: Paula Martins – Senior Occupational Health and Safety Technician
Licensing | Occupational Health and Safety | Quality and Radiological Protection
