R U OK? in the workplace

Workplace R U OK? Not just one day a year

SafeWork NSW is urging all workers to help build a R U OK? culture every day, not just one day of the year, to help create psychologically safe and healthy workplaces.

Historically, many business owners have focussed on physical safety only in the workplace. However, employers and business owners have a legal responsibility to manage hazards and risks to workers’ physical and mental health and safety in the workplace, under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011.

Managing psychosocial hazards such as high workloads, exposure to trauma, bullying, and harassment in the workplace, creates a healthier and happier environment that is more productive and benefits everyone.

Consultation with workers is the first step and a cornerstone of safety in any workplace. It can include regular discussions with workers about safety, establishing a Work Health and Safety Committee or the use of Health and Safety Representatives to help workers raise health and safety concerns and be consulted about risks.

Employers can consult with their workers about mental health by using the People at Work tool. It’s a free, evidence-based survey to help identify and manage risks to psychological health at work.

SafeWork NSW has a wide range of resources and toolkits available at their Mental Health at Work website.