Abstract

To set up programs such as WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System), some companies rely on external health and safety specialists, while others use their own personnel. A preliminary study of the introduction of WHMIS revealed that externally driven implementation strategies yield better results in the short term than those that are internally driven. The purpose of this project was to evaluate the effect of different strategies over the medium term on the performance of this safety program. Data from approximately 60 companies using internal or external personnel to implement WHMIS was collected by questionnaire, interview, and observation. Two sets of analyses were conducted : comparison of the various strategies on the success of the program over the medium term, and evolution of results between 1990 and 1993. The results of this study should prove useful to companies and safety consultants involved with the implementation of WHMIS and other safety measures.