Addressing Changes to Mental Health Legislation

At EMP Onsite, we know the impact of work on individuals' mental well-being is significant, and how crucial for employers to prioritize mental health in the workplace.  There are various workplace elements that can negatively affect the wellbeing of employees  causing lasting injury, yet they often go unnoticed.  

  
In the past, mental well-being was encompassed within the broader health and safety framework as a "duty of care." However, in numerous states, it is now specifically designated as the employer's responsibility. Throughout Australia, state and territory governments are amending their Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) regulations to align with the code of practice set forth by Safe Work Australia in 2022. 

So far the Commonwealth, New South Wales, Queensland, Tasmania and Western Australia have already adopted these regulations on managing psychosocial risks, with Victoria also proposing regulatory change.  These regulations outline the necessary steps employers must take to  create an action plan to proactively identify and address psychosocial hazards. 

The good news is that workplaces can act today. With a history of providing clinical interventions in the workplace, EMP Onsite mental health programs can help employers address psychosocial risk and save money at the same time to by reducing the incidence, severity and duration of psychosocial workplace injuries. Learn more about how EMP Onsite can help your workplace.