The Occupational Health Clinics for Ontario Workers (OHCOW) is set to host a webinar series titled “Activating Knowledge for Workplace Mental Health” in commemoration of May Day, also known as International Workers’ Day.
With the globally recognized distress call “MAYDAY, MAYDAY!” symbolizing a cry for help, and May Day itself honoring the contributions of workers worldwide, the focus on Workplace Mental Health couldn’t be timelier, particularly amid the ongoing repercussions of the recent global pandemic.
Celebrating International Workers’ Day alongside significant milestones, the webinar aims to delve into the history, research, and practices pertinent to Workplace Mental Health. Notably, May Day holds special significance as it marks both Labour Day worldwide and the commencement of OHCOW’s inaugural Occupational Hygienist, John Oudyk, in 1989. This year, as OHCOW commemorates its 35th anniversary alongside John’s tenure, the event will spotlight Knowledge Activism and its intersection with Workplace Mental Health and Injury Prevention, principles steadfastly championed by the organization.
Community-Scale Impact: The Role of Knowledge Activism
Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the pivotal role played by the United Steelworkers union in advancing worker knowledge mobilization for prevention efforts. From the landmark Elliott Lake Wildcat strike fifty years ago to OHCOW’s genesis in the 1980s, and the legislative response following the Westray Mine Explosion in 2004, the event will trace the evolution of worker activism and its relevance to contemporary workplace challenges, including mental health and gender-based violence.
From Research to Practice: Implementing Knowledge Activism
Distinguished speakers, including Dr. Alan Hall, Honorary Research Professor at Memorial University, will shed light on the latest research surrounding worker activist engagement and its implications for mental health within the workforce.
Turning Research into Action: Applied Knowledge Activism
Additionally, the event will mark the 15th anniversary of the Mental Injury Tool Group (MIT), pioneers in recognizing stress and other workplace-induced factors as occupational hazards necessitating assessment and mitigation. Through the development of practical tools such as the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire, MIT has spearheaded knowledge activation efforts, exemplifying OHCOW’s commitment under John’s stewardship.
The insights shared by Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire users from across the globe promise to offer valuable perspectives for those dedicated to enhancing health and well-being in both research and practice settings.
