Factors in the workplace impacting psychological health and safety
The Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC) championed the development and release of Canada’s first voluntary National Standard on workplace psychological health and safety – available at no cost at www.shop.csa.ca or www.bnq.qc.ca. The new Standard encourages employers to identify, assess, and mitigate risks that may impact an employee’s psychological health and well being. There are 13 psychosocial factors within the workplace that can have a positive or negative impact on employee health.
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PSYCHOLOGICAL SUPPORT: A work environment where coworkers and supervisors are supportive of employees’ psychological and mental health concerns, and respond appropriately as needed.
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ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE: A work environment characterized by trust, honesty and fairness.
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CLEAR LEADERSHIP & EXPECTATIONS: A work environment where there is effective leadership and support that helps employees know what they need to do, how their work contributes to the organization, and whether there are impending changes.
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CIVILITY & RESPECT: A work environment where employees are respectful and considerate in their interactions with one another, as well as with customers, clients and the public.
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PSYCHOLOGICAL COMPETENCIES & REQUIREMENTS: A work environment where there is good fit between employees’ interpersonal and emotional competencies and the requirements of the position they hold.
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GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT: A work environment where employees receive encouragement and support in the development of their interpersonal, emotional and job skills.
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RECOGNITION & REWARD: A work environment where there is appropriate acknowledgement and appreciation of employees’ efforts in a fair and timely manner.
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INVOLVEMENT & INFLUENCE: A work environment where employees are included in discussions about how their work is done and how important decisions are made.
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WORKLOAD MANAGEMENT: A work environment where tasks and responsibilities can be accomplished successfully within the time available.
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ENGAGEMENT: A work environment where employees feel connected to their work and are motivated to do their job well.
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BALANCE: A work environment where there is recognition of the need for balance between the demands of work, family and personal life.
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PSYCHOLOGICAL PROTECTION: A work environment where employees’ psychological safety is ensured.
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PROTECTION OF PHYSICAL SAFETY: A work environment where management takes appropriate action to protect the physical safety of employees.