Mental health and wellbeing inspectors in the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DMIRS) have developed a series of resources on workplace mental health and wellbeing.
DMIRS said its Mentally Healthy Workplaces included resources for management and workers as well as podcasts and a video series aimed at assisting workplaces to discuss, consult, plan and operate in a safe and efficient manner.
“A mentally healthy workplace is one where workers and management collaborate to protect and promote the health, safety and wellbeing of all,” the Department said.
“Maintaining a mentally healthy workplace involves continually addressing health, safety and wellbeing concerns in and due to, the work environment,” it said.
DMIRS said the organisation and design of work, workplace culture, physical environment, and the facilities provided all needed to be considered to maintain a mentally healthy workplace.
“Through creating mentally healthy workplaces, organisations can make a valuable contribution to improving the mental health of their workers,” it said.
“We spend a lot of time at work, and it has a significant impact on our lives; using this part of life to make a positive impact on mental health is a good idea.”
DMIRS said its Mentally Healthy Workplaces podcast series covered risk management process; psychosocial hazards and risk factors; investigating psychosocial hazards and harm to health; managing inappropriate workplace behaviour; and workplace bullying for employees.
“This podcast is not a substitute for training, nor does it constitute training, which should address the concepts presented here and ensure recipients have the necessary knowledge and understanding to operate in a safe and efficient manner,” it said.
The Department’s Mentally Healthy Workplaces podcast and video series can be accessed at this PS News link.
