Many more employers are prioritising mental health inside and outside of work. After all, many people are battling various disorders that can take a toll on their daily lives, such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), to name a few.
Employers must pay closer attention to their employees’ mental well-being, but they mustn’t take their eye off the ball regarding physical safety. As a result, they will need to strike the right balance to protect mental and physical health in the workplace. Keep reading for more information.
A Safer Environment for Physically and Psychologically Support
Businesses shouldn’t underestimate the importance of creating a safe environment. It will keep employees safe and secure onsite, which is fundamental to any operation, and provide staff with more psychological support. For instance, they will feel happier and safer in the workplace if a business offers the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and clear signage in high-traffic areas and remains committed to complying with various safety standards. Protect your employees’ mental and physical health by investing in custom signage from a professional signage shop, as well as practical solutions to safeguard your team, such as first aid equipment and floor markings. It will make it easier for a human resources team to create a safer workplace for everyone.
Encourage Breaks to Protect Physical and Mental Health
Encouraging breaks throughout the day is a fantastic way to protect your employees mentally and physically. It will prevent tiredness while lowering their stress levels, helping to avoid serious and fatal accidents in the workplace. Also, your staff will feel happier and mentally stronger throughout the day or night, making them feel more relaxed after a busy day and excited to return to work.
If an employee appears stressed, fatigued, or unmotivated, it is essential to hold a meeting to check how they are feeling and identify the best solution for their needs. For example, you could encourage them to take a personal day, request paid leave, or delegate tasks to remove some pressure on their shoulders. It could prevent careless mistakes, serious injuries, low morale, and mental health disorders from arising in the workplace.
Introduce Health and Wellness Programs
Introducing one or more health and wellness programs could create a happier, healthier, and more secure environment for your team. For instance, regularly host a stress management program to teach effective stress management techniques to your hardworking employees. After all, stressed-out employees are more likely to struggle with poor focus and decision-making, leading to serious errors at work. Plus, the mental pressure off the job could cause them to take time off work, as they could develop anxiety or depression that will impact their emotional well-being and may lead to absences.
Remember, employers have a legal responsibility to make reasonable adjustments to an employee’s working life to support them in their role and protect their physical and mental health. Also, you could combat the above by implementing an exercise program, providing access to regular counselling services, or investing in effective stress management apps.
Create an Open Door Policy
Every line manager should have an open-door policy to allow employees to feel comfortable discussing any issues they might have in the workplace. Communicate you are always ready and willing to listen to your employees’ opinions and concerns, as it will make them feel they have a voice in the business. As a result, they will be more likely to flag a potential hazard, discuss a mental health issue, or highlight unprofessional or concerning behaviour at work.
By following the above advice, you will protect your employees’ physical and mental health while creating a more productive, motivated, and secure environment.
The post Mental Health and Physical Safety: Striking the Right Balance in the Workplace first appeared on HR News.
