As Perth businesses strive for success, prioritising employee wellbeing becomes increasingly crucial. While physical safety regulations are well-established, a hidden threat lurks in the workplace – psychosocial hazards.
What are Psychosocial Hazards?
Psychosocial hazards are aspects of the work environment that can negatively affect a person’s mental health. They can stem from job demands, poor organisational culture, violence, and even inadequate support systems.
Here in Perth, common psychosocial hazards include:
- High workload and tight deadlines: These can lead to stress, anxiety, and burnout.
- Lack of role clarity or control: Feeling unsure of your responsibilities or unable to influence your work can be demotivating.
- Poor communication or negative workplace relationships: Conflict, bullying, or a lack of support from colleagues can significantly impact mental health.
- Shift work or long hours: Disrupted sleep patterns and excessive work hours can contribute to fatigue and decreased well-being.
Why Should Perth Businesses Care?
Unidentified and unaddressed psychosocial hazards have a significant cost. They can lead to:
- Increased absenteeism and presenteeism (reduced productivity while at work).
- Higher staff turnover.
- Decreased morale and engagement.
- Work-related injuries and accidents.
- Mental health issues impacting staff and potentially leading to compensation claims.
The Power of Psychological Safety
Psychological safety goes hand-in-hand with managing psychosocial hazards. It fosters a work environment where employees feel comfortable speaking up about concerns, mistakes, or suggestions without fear of retribution. This open and supportive culture is vital for early identification and mitigation of psychosocial risks.
How Can MHFA Training Help?
Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training equips Perth workplaces with the skills and knowledge to navigate these challenges. Similar to physical first aid, MHFA teaches participants to:
- Recognise signs and symptoms of mental health issues.
- Provide initial support to a colleague experiencing a mental health problem.
- Guide them towards professional help if needed.
Our Upcoming MHFA Course in Perth
We’re excited to announce our upcoming MHFA training course in Perth this May! This course is perfect for businesses of all sizes, including schools, training providers, warehouses, construction companies, those in the mining industry, commercial offices, and companies in other fields.
By equipping your staff with MHFA skills, you’ll be creating a safer, more supportive work environment for everyone. This leads to a happier, healthier, and more productive workforce – a win-win for your business and your employees.
Limited seats available! Register today for our MHFA course and safeguard your staff’s mental wellbeing.
Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training will be held on 3rd of May (Friday) at Essential Training. Click the link below to register:
By understanding psychosocial hazards and promoting psychological safety through MHFA training, Perth businesses can create a thriving work environment where everyone feels valued and supported.
