Evaluating occupational health and safety programs in the public sector

Background Two case studies are presented of public sector occupational health and safety (OHS) program evaluations, one of an occupational medicine and safety program (OMSP), one of an employee assistance and wellness program (EAWP). Methods Both audits involved interviews with key personnel, review of written documentation and physical resources, chart audits, and surveys of the programs' stakeholders. Results Key findings of the OMSP evaluation were that the various functions were substantially hampered by the absence of an integrated information system. Mechanisms for effective coordination, communication, and feedback were also lacking. The EAWP audit concluded that it provided a valuable and needed service. The mission, staff facilities, and services offered were in line with the needs of the served community. Discussion Differences between private and public sector OHS program evaluation include programmatic and environmental factors such as resource availability organizational structure, and accountability. Similarities include trends in both sectors forcing programs to justify themselves in terms of economic benefits to their respective organizations. (C) 1998 Wiley-Liss, Inc.