New Plain Language Toolkit Helps Workplaces to Spell It Out for Safety
News release
For Immediate Release
February 11, 2025 – Hamilton, ON – Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS)
The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) has launched Spell It Out, a new toolkit aimed at creating safer and more inclusive workplaces through plain language.
In today's diverse work environments, using acronyms, jargon, and complex words can create barriers and make it hard for everyone to understand important health and safety guidance, including people who are new to the workforce or those who speak a different first language. These misunderstandings may lead to confusion, errors, injuries and feelings of exclusion among employees.
The toolkit highlights the need for clear and simple communication. Key recommendations include:
- Avoid unnecessary jargon and acronyms. Spell out acronyms and use words everyone understands, regardless of background or experience.
- Use plain language principles. Follow guidelines that promote clarity. Use active voice, organize information logically, and choose familiar words.
- Create an inclusive culture. Understand that complex language can make workers feel excluded. Take steps to foster a welcoming work environment through plain language.
The free Spell It Out toolkit provides practical tips and resources on how to use plain language. Sharing the videos, posters, infographic, and social media posts can encourage others to adopt plain language, too.
Access the resources at ccohs.ca/spell-it-out and learn more about using plain language in the workplace.
Quotes
“Clear communication is the foundation of a safe workplace. We hope to inspire others in health and safety to use plain language and affect positive change across Canadian workplaces.”
- Anne Tennier, President and Chief Executive Officer, Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS)
"There’s no room for confusion or misunderstanding in health and safety. With clear safety messages and guidance that are easy for everyone to understand, we can make our workplaces safer and more inclusive.”
- Anne Tennier, President and Chief Executive Officer, Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS)
Quick facts
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Spell It Out features animated videos that show animal workers using complex language such as vibrations, clicks, and whistles to protect themselves against hazards. Humans, however, can use plain language. Although the resources take a playful approach, the overall message is serious. Every worker can benefit from plain language to understand and act on important health and safety guidance.
Associated links
Contacts
For more information (media only):
Jennifer Howse
Senior Communications Specialist
Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS)
(289) 442-4057
media@ccohs.ca
www.ccohs.ca