title: The Ergonomic Program Implementation Continuum (EPIC): integration of health and safety--a process evaluation in the healthcare sector.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  This article presents a health and safety intervention model and the use of process evaluation to assess a participatory ergonomic intervention.
  
  
  METHODS
  The effectiveness of the Ergonomic Program Implementation Continuum (EPIC) was assessed at six healthcare pilot sites in Ontario, Canada. The model provided a framework to demonstrate evaluation findings.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Participants reported that EPIC was thorough and identified improvements related to its use. Participants believed the program contributed to advancing an organizational culture of safety (COS). Main barriers to program uptake included resistance to change and need for adequate funding and resources. The dedication of organizational leaders and consultant coaches was identified as essential to the program's success.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  In terms of impact on industry, findings contribute to the evidence-based knowledge of health and safety interventions and support use of the framework for creating a robust infrastructure to advance organizational COS and link staff safety and wellness with patient safety in healthcare.
authors.affiliation: Nursing Health Services Research Unit, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, MDCL 3500, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada L8S 4K1. baumanna@mcmaster.ca
authors.forename: Andrea
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Baumann
authors.forename: D Linn
authors.initials: DL
authors.lastname: Holness
authors.forename: Patrica
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Norman
authors.forename: Dina
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Idriss-Wheeler
authors.forename: Patricia
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Boucher
mesh_terms: D000062:Accidents, Occupational / Q000517:prevention & control; D006804:Ergonomics; D019981:Health Care Sector; D006801:Humans; D017146:Models, Organizational; D016272:Occupational Health; D009864:Ontario; D016730:Program Development