We often focus on the physical safety of our employees, which is critical, but do we place as much emphasis on the health of our employees? It’s not just preventing illness or ensuring hygiene controls are in place, but also your staff’s mental, emotional and physical wellbeing.
I’m a big believer that a healthy employee is a safe one. Why? Because if someone values their health, and their employer actively values and promotes their physical and mental health, they are less likely to engage in compromising health and safety behaviours in the workplace.
- How do you rate your workplace culture?
- How do you encourage or enhance your staff’s overall health?
With the specific introduction of mental health hazards in Work Health & Safety legislation, and code of practice, looking after your employees’ mental health is not just a “nice to have…” it’s now a part of your legal obligations!
Bullying, harassment, sexual harassment, intimidation and discrimination are unfortunately still part of workplace culture at some venues, and I’m seeing several distressing incident reports come through on a regular basis.
Allowing, excusing, or being part of this behaviour is extremely detrimental to a healthy workplace culture and can have severe legal implications; Fair Work, Work Safe, or the Police! It is your responsibility to act. Ask yourself this:
If there is room for improvement in your workplace, there are a range of activities you could do.
For example:
- Organise regular staff information sessions with “life experts” such as financial advisers and health check professionals.
- Ask your Chefs to develop quick and easy (and budget friendly) meal ideas or provide discounted access to fitness activities in your local area.
- September is a busy month for health awareness and fundraising activities, such as R U OK Day (Sept 9), International Prostate Cancer Awareness Month and World Heart Week. So, now is the time to organise fundraising and awareness resources, programs, workshops, or talks for your staff.
I have developed a Staff Wellbeing Framework that provides guidance and resources for implementing a venue specific wellbeing program for employees. It can be easily adapted to your operation and complement any health providers that you work with.
There are also a range of psychosocial hazard management services available, including workshops, policies and procedures, as well as facilitation of anonymous employee wellbeing surveys and assistance with implementing a Well Employee Program in your venue.
For more information on the Staff Wellbeing Framework, Well Employee Program, and my psychosocial services, please contact me via email at michelle@dws.net.au.
About the Author
A highly qualified advisor, Michelle brings with her 20+ years of experience in safety and compliance. With experience spanning multiple industries including hospitality, construction, mining, environmental services, large municipalities and amusement centres, Michelle brings fresh ideas and a breadth of knowledge to her role as DWS’ Work Health, Safety and Compliance Advisor.
If you have any questions about WH&S or compliance questions, please get in touch with Michelle Bates.
