Creating a Safe Workplace: Addressing Harassment and Prioritizing Mental Health at Workplace

 Importance of Securing a Healthy & Safe Work Culture 

Figure 1: Melvin D. (2021)-Professional Development. Job Satisfaction. Mental Wellbeing. Does it matter? - THE MSL (themsljournal.com)

One of the most common reasons for people to quit their jobs is, undoubtedly, having an unsafe and unhealthy workplace. Health and safety are critical aspects of any organization, as it not only protects employees from harm and injury, but also contributes to a positive work environment, increased productivity and overall business success. It is crucial that organizations understand the importance of workplace health and safety, key components of a successful health and safety program and strategize for creating a safe and healthy workplace for all employees.

 

What is well-being at work?

Well-being at work refers to the overall health, happiness and satisfaction of employees in the workplace. It encompasses physical, mental and emotional well-being as well as factors such as work life balance, job satisfaction and personal development.

Key aspects of wellbeing at work:

Figure 2:Wellbeing at work; key aspects-Created by author

1. Physical well-being:

Includes factors such as workplace safety, ergonomic workstations, access to healthy food options, opportunities for physical activity. and health promotion programs.

2. Mental wellbeing:

Involves managing stress, promoting work life balance & providing support for mental health issues.

3. Emotional wellbeing:

Focuses on creating a supportive and inclusive workplace culture, fostering positive relationships among colleagues.

4. Carrier wellbeing:

Involves opportunities for growth development and advancement within the organization.

 
 Aspects that contribute to a safe and healthy work Environment:

Figure 3: Lynch (2023)-Workplace safety standards-Employers Have a Legal Obligation to Ensure Workplace Safety | Lynch Law Firm, PLLC (lynchlf.com)

1. Safety policies and procedures

2. Training and education

3. Offering Health and wellness programs

4. Encouraging Work-life balance 

5. Compliance with regulations 

The Significance of mental health at workplace:

Figure 4: Ross J. (2021),Fostering Mental Health in the Workplace - Wedgwood Insurance Limited

Mental health in the workplace is a critical issue that is gaining more recognition and attention in recent years. However, it is true that mental health concerns are still often unheard or not adequately addressed in many work environments. HR Place a crucial role in prioritizing mental health in the workplace.

Some key aspects to which hour can contribute to promote and support mental health among employees:

1. Developing policies and programs: 

HR can and must implement policies and programs that prioritize mental health, such as. Employee Assistant Programs (EAP), Peer support mental health training, wellness initiatives flexible work arrangements.

2. Educating employees and managers:

HR must provide education and training on mental health awareness.

3. Respect confidentiality: 

HR must ensure that employee's privacy and confidentiality are always respected.

Safety in the workplace physical. hazards and injuries: What about harassment?

Figure 5: Respond to harassment at workplace-(Online)The Weinstein Effect - Next Steps - Work Opportunities Unlimited

Safety in the workplace goes beyond physical hazards and injuries, to include psychological safety. Which encompasses protection from harassment, discrimination and other forms of mistreatment. Addressing harassment is crucial to creating a safe and inclusive work environment where employees feel respected, valued and supported.

HR, again plays a critical role in addressing and preventing harassment in the workplace. 

How does an organization benefit by a safe and healthy workplace?

Figure 6: White R. (2019)-5 Steps to Driving a Healthier Workplace Culture (ceotodaymagazine.com)

A healthy and safe workplace is essential for the wellbeing of employees. Employees are happy if their wellbeing is properly taken care of by the organization they work for. Consequently, if there is no external or internal pressure, stressing or hindering the employee's productivity at the workplace, naturally the workforce is going to be more productive & loyal. An organization can ensure sustainability of business operations and long-term success, by prioritizing a positive work environment that benefits employees, customers and stakeholders alike,

Conclusion: 

An unsafe and unhealthy workplace can be a significant factor contributing to employees quitting their jobs. Organizations that prioritize workplace health and safety promote a positive work culture and support employee wellbeing are more likely to retain talent, foster loyalty and create a productive and engaged workforce. Investing in creating a safe, healthy and supportive work environment is essential for attracting and retaining top talent and ensuring long term organizational success as well as securing the company's reputation as well.

References:

1. Robinson B. (2022), Discover The Top 5 Reasons Workers Want To Quit Their Jobs, Forbes, May

2. Harvard Business Review - "The Business Case for Well-Being": This article explores the benefits of investing in employee well-being and the positive impact it can have on organizational performance. (Source: https://hbr.org/2019/06/the-business-case-for-well-being)

3. https://wedgwoodinsurance.com/blog/commercial-insurance/fostering-mental-health-in-the-workplace/ (Online)-accessed on 15-04-2024

4. White R. (2019)-CEO Today-https://www.ceotodaymagazine.com/2019/04/5-steps-to-driving-a-healthier-workplace-culture/

5. Lynch, (2023) - https://www.lynchlf.com/blog/employers-have-a-legal-obligation-to-ensure-workplace-safety/-(online) accessed 15-04-2024