Recent news on workplace manslaughter laws, introduced to Victorian state government earlier this month, raise difficult questions regarding the responsibilities and requirements of employers to proactively support mental health and safety in workplaces.
As reported in The Age “the laws will cover deaths caused by mental injuries, including trauma from bullying or other forms of abuse, sustained on the job as well as accidents and illnesses caused by unsafe workplaces. The new legislation will apply to all employers in public and private companies whose negligence resulted in a death of an employee, be that by providing a dangerous workplace or failing to provide appropriate mental support."
At AccessEAP, our customers already demonstrate a commitment to safeguard the mental health and wellbeing of their people. However, we believe this current proposed amendment to legislation will further define the responsibilities of employers in this area. We are developing resources to start a conversation with and between our customers to help understand the potential impact of the legislation and proactive approaches to implement in the workplace.
The first of these resources is now available in the form of a podcast on Suicide Awareness and Psychological Safety in the Workplace.
In this podcast Michael Foley (Director of Organisational Development) and Dorienne Spennato (Clinical Services Manager) discuss:
- the potential impact of the proposed legislation
- the role that employers play in creating psychologically safe workplaces
- preventing bullying and harassment
- the responsibility of management
- practical hints and tips to create a safe working environment.
Please contact your Relationship Manager for further information, support and access to training.