In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, many employers are grappling with the challenges of ensuring their employees’ employment and income security while also managing increased workloads and tasks due to staff shortages. As an employer, prioritising your employees’ mental health is essential for their overall well-being and productivity at work.
In Australia, there are new health and safety regulations related to employers’ responsibilities for their employees’ mental health. These regulations require employers to manage psychosocial hazards related to work design, systems of work, management of work, carrying out work, and personal/work-related interactions. Failure to manage these hazards may lead to negative psychosocial responses in employees, which can pose a risk to their mental health.
Examples of psychosocial hazards include sexual harassment, aggression, violence, exposure to traumatic events, too high/too low job demands, low job control, poor support, lack of job clarity, poor environmental conditions, remote/isolated work, poor change management, lack of reward/recognition, and poor working relationships.
To prioritize your employees’ mental health, it is essential to start a conversation about mental health in the workplace. You can ask your employees what they think the biggest mental health risks are at your supermarket and take steps to address these issues. Providing various channels for employees to give feedback is the best way to get the most input.
Encouraging employees to look out for each other is also crucial for promoting a positive workplace culture. By fostering a supportive and positive environment, employees will feel less isolated and more supported, which will have a positive impact on their mental health and the success of your supermarket.
If you need further help and guidance regarding mental health issues at your supermarket, do not hesitate to contact us. As an employer, prioritising your employees’ mental health is crucial for their overall well-being and the success of your business.
