Plain Language Toolkit Creates Safer Workplaces
The Spell It Out toolkit provides guidance on avoiding unnecessary jargon, using plain language principles, and fostering an inclusive work environment.
- By Stasia DeMarco
- Feb 12, 2025
The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) has introduced Spell It Out, a new toolkit designed to improve workplace safety and inclusion through plain language communication.
In a diverse workforce, complex terminology, jargon, and acronyms can create barriers, particularly for new employees and those who speak English as a second language. Misunderstandings in health and safety messaging can lead to confusion, errors, injuries, and feelings of exclusion among workers.
The free toolkit emphasizes the importance of clear, simple communication. Key recommendations include:
- Avoiding jargon and acronyms – Spell out abbreviations and use common, easily understood words.
- Using plain language principles – Communicate with clarity by using active voice, logical organization, and familiar terms.
- Fostering inclusion – Recognize that complex language can alienate workers and take steps to ensure everyone understands safety messages.
It is a toolkit that has safety advice like videos, posters, infographics, and social media resources to help workplaces adopt plain language practices across workspaces.
“Clear communication is the foundation of a safe workplace,” said Anne Tennier, president and CEO of CCOHS. “We hope to inspire others in health and safety to use plain language and create positive change across North American workplaces.”
The Spell It Out campaign features animated videos of animal workers relying on sounds like vibrations and whistles to communicate hazards—highlighting the critical role plain language plays in human workplace safety. While the approach is lighthearted, the message is serious: every worker benefits from clear, accessible safety communication.
For more information, visit ccohs.ca/spell-it-out.
About the Author
Stasia DeMarco is the Content Editor for OH&S.