WorkSafe ACT is calling on workplaces to review how they manage psychosocial hazards during the Territory’s lockdown.
Commissioner for Work Health and Safety, Jacqueline Agius said she was impressed with Public Health Direction compliance, but emphasised the importance of managing the psychosocial hazards posed by the lockdown.
“We know that navigating the COVID-19 environment can be challenging,” Commissioner Agius said.
“But we cannot afford to let workers’ health and safety, particularly mental health, and wellbeing, take a back seat while we adjust to this lockdown,” she said.
“The changing landscape, working from home and in isolation, changing job demands and the increased risk of work-related violence and aggression, under the backdrop of COVID-19, may mean that current systems in place for psychosocial hazards are no longer adequate.”
Commissioner Agius said WorkSafe ACT’s role was to ensure that employers met their obligations under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011, which included having appropriate systems in place to manage risks associated with psychosocial hazards.
The Commissioner said a person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) should review their current systems to account for the additional or changed psychosocial hazards and ensure they were doing what was reasonably possible to eliminate and minimise risk.
“Essential workers, young workers, women and LGBTQIA+ workers, are all at greater risk of work-related violence and aggression,” she said.
“This behaviour is not acceptable and PCBUs must implement control measures to protect all workers during this time.”
Commissioner Agius said providing information to support PCBUs to understand and meet their obligations concerning psychosocial health was a priority for her and for WorkSafe ACT’s dedicated psychosocial inspector team.
“The message I want people to take away is that we are facing a serious mental health challenge here in the ACT,” she said.
“Some people will find this harder than others, feelings of being overwhelmed, alone and anxious about work.”
Commissioner Agius said WorkSafe ACT had useful resources and information available on its website for both PCBUs and workers, including information on possible psychosocial hazards and examples of how they may present in the workplace.
WorkSafe ACT’s psychosocial health resources can be accessed at this PS News link.
