Concurrent 21. Oral Presentation for: Mental health, psychological safety and psychosocial safety – same but different?
Nada Wentzel A *A The Jonah Group, Byron Bay, NSW, Australia.
The APPEA Journal 63 - https://doi.org/10.1071/AJ22372
Published: 2 June 2023
Abstract
Presented on Wednesday 17 May: Session 21
Mental health is a hot topic right now. As is well-being, psychological safety, diversity and inclusivity, respect@work, and psychosocial risk. Recent changes in Work Health and Safety (WHS) Laws have created a buzz around these words. They have caused organisations to scramble to understand their legal obligations and implement strategies to satisfy their obligations. Often these terms are interchanged, implying they mean the same thing. Often, there is a tussle between two or more parts of the business – where does psychosocial safety sit? Human Resources, Health, Safety or Operations? The confusion and ambiguity in definition, approach and responsibility can lead to reactive strategies which whilst they intend to ‘fix’ the problem, inadvertently lead to an increased likelihood of psychosocial risk. Having clear definitions, accountabilities and a simple strategy are key to success. Culture gets created in conversation. If the conversation is murky, the culture is murky. This paper provides a simple framework to help organisations navigate the perceived complexity in this space and create their own blueprint.
To access the Oral Presentation click the link on the right. To read the full paper click here
Keywords: enterprise risk, human resources, mental health, legislation, psychosocial hazard, psychological safety, respect@work, safety culture, safety leadership, well-being, work health and safety.
Nada Wentzel has more than 25 years’ experience in Human Factors within the energy and heavy industries. She started her career as an Offshore Engineer with Esso Australia and was a part of the 1998 Longford Crisis Management Team. She went on to become Safety Manager, Australasia and to complete her M.A. in Social Psychology Masters in Neuro Leadership. She now acts as a board advisor in risk management and Human Factors in HSE. Her unique fusion of formal qualifications, operational experience and deep passion for understanding human behaviour gives her a valuable perspective. |
