Mental Illness @ Work

Mental Illness @ Work

by | Oct 17, 2017 | Health & Wellbeing, Injury Prevention, Mental Health, Work Health & Safety

Recent research found employers are failing to acknowledge & address the mental health of their staff. As part of a SafeWork strategy, a group of experts identify construction & scientific industries as the worst offenders.



Mental Illness @ Work

SafeWork NSW research shows many employers neglect staff mental health, with the construction and scientific industries among the worst performers.

The NSW Mental Health Commission reports that 17% of people experience mental illness annually, with another 23% facing undiagnosed issues, impacting about 600,000 small business workers each year.

Evidence shows current workplace mental health programs focus on large organisations, overlooking the unique needs of small businesses.

A recent independent survey of more than 2000 employees across NSW businesses showed that close to one in five employers had only basic awareness of mental health issues and viewed mental health as an individual's responsibility and nearly 50% of the businesses in NSW have no procedures in place to handle situations related to mental health appropriately.

These findings are alarming considering mental illness is now the leading cause of long-term sickness absences among workers in the country. A person with a severe mental health condition can have up to 42 days off work, in addition to normal sick leave costing NSW employers an estimated $2.8 billion annually according to a 2014 PWC report.

Given the importance of mental health in terms of the human and financial cost to workplace safety and business profitability, it is pivotal to implement an effective management strategy regardless of the size of the business. It is also a legal obligation of employers to manage health and safety risks in the workplace, which includes mental health.

While traumatic events are unforeseen, employers and managers have a duty to support workers affected by mental health problems.
Sources:

www.safework.nsw.gov.au

http://www.smh.com.au/national/health/half-of-nsw-businesses-have-no-mental-health-strategy-survey-using-new-algorithm-shows-20171018-gz34p2.html

http://www.theherald.com.au/story/4989711/mental-illness-at-work-in-focus/

Australian Bullying Guidelines

Australian Bullying Guidelines

by | Sep 22, 2016 | Bullying, Claim costs, Claim management, Injury Prevention, Mental Health, Work Health & Safety, Workers Compensation, Workplace safety

Stopping Workplace Bullying

In Australia, employers must prevent discrimination, harassment and bullying, ensuring all workers and job applicants are treated fairly. WHS laws require safe workplace behaviours, and employers must minimise or eliminate health and safety risks caused by bullying. Safe Work Australia has updated its bullying guidance to help managers and workers prevent and manage this issue.

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Occupational Violence

Occupational Violence

by | Sep 16, 2016 | Bullying, Claim costs, Claim management, Injured Worker, Mental Health, Occupational Violence, Work Health & Safety, Workers Compensation, Workplace safety

Occupational Violence

Occupational violence involves a worker being physically attacked at work or during work?related duties, or being threatened in a way that makes them reasonably fear an attack. As the population ages, care providers face growing challenges supporting staff who deal with aggressive behaviours linked to some forms of dementia and disability. Care workers now account for over 9% of NSW workers' compensation claims, with more than 12,000 physical and psychological claims lodged in the past three years. Addressing bullying and violence in these settings is complex, but SafeWork Australia offers guidance to help organisations manage the risks.

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Reducing Workplace Stress

Reducing Workplace Stress

by | May 24, 2016 | Injury Prevention, Mental Health, Work Health & Safety, Work Health Program

Reducing Workplace Stress

For many people stress has unfortunately become a constant in daily life. Irrespective of the level of stress a person experiences, the stress will impact their work as well their personal life. Both internal work pressure and external personal factors affect an individual’s mental and physical well-being.

In today’s social media and highly connected society, people are facing an increased variety of personal and professional pressures. The demands of fitting in work and life can take a toll if not managed carefully. Dealing constantly with deadlines, conflicting priorities, customer needs, appointments, etc. can become stressful for some. By assisting your staff to proactively manage workplace stress, you will help improve their job satisfaction as well as their ability to perform tasks at a higher level. An active approach to workplace stress management is a win/win for all involved.

Employers can take 6 simple steps to assist workers in reducing workplace and personal stresses.

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Safer Workplace in 8 Steps

Safer Workplace in 8 Steps

by | Apr 19, 2016 | Claim costs, Claim management, Injured Worker, Injury Prevention, Manual Handling, Mental Health, Work Health & Safety, Work Health Program, Workers Compensation, Workplace safety

Workplace Safety 8 Steps

Every workplace can take simple steps to reduce injury risks and improve safety. While offices may seem less hazardous than industries like construction or aged care, risks exist everywhere. Common causes of injury include slips, trips, poor manual handling, incorrect workstation setup, lack of breaks, and repetitive strain. Left unaddressed, these issues impact productivity, morale, and absenteeism. Employers can follow 8 practical steps to minimise risks and create safer, healthier workplaces.

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