As an Australian first, SafeWork NSW have issued a code of practice for the management of psychosocial hazards in the workplace. Code of practice – Managing psychological hazards at work
The code is to assist employers in identifying mental health risks and implement the appropriate controls to manage and eliminate the risks.
Alarming statistics demonstrating the increase in psychological injury, increased economic costs such as absenteeism and presenteeism has driven the need to introduce a code to support compliance with businesses’ existing primary duty of care.
The code provides guidance around duties and obligations, provides information about known psychosocial hazards and risks.
Although it is a NSW Code of Practice, it will be equally important for all jurisdictions. Although COPs are not mandatory and employers are not required to follow them, they are often used by courts and Safety Regulators in determining what the PCBU’s state of knowledge should be in considering what is reasonably practicable.
ABILITY GROUP have witnessed the increasing prevalence of psychological claims across personal injury schemes over the past 2 years. We know that many of our clients find managing psychosocial hazards at work very challenging. We are here to help, please make contact with us to help you manage risks and prevent physical and psychosocial injuries in your business. We can help you identify hazards and implement the appropriate controls to support you and your people.
Title: Code of Practice – Managing psychological hazards at work
Source: NSW Government