PSYCHOSOCIAL risk and safety management systems must be established within governance structures, decision-making processes, and organisational values,says Australian Institute of Health and Safety Board Chair Celia Antonovsky.
Ms Antonovsky told the Fiji OHS conference at the Crowne Plaza Nadi Bay Resort that a respectful and inclusive culture does not happen by chance.
“While awareness is growing, the real challenge lies in implementation,” she said.
“Organisations must adopt practical, structured approaches to identifying and managing psychosocial hazards.”
Ms Antonovsky said this began with recognising that those risks could and should be managed in the same systematic way that physical hazards are managed while ensuring workers are part of the process.
“Their voices, experiences and insights are critical in shaping solutions that are both relevant and effective.”
Ms Antonovsky said was the importance of integration in that psychosocial risk management should not sit separately from existing health and safety systems.
“Another is the value of early intervention, addressing issues before they escalate, not only protects workers but also reduces long-term organisational costs.
“Internationally, there is also growing recognition of the need for context-specific approaches.”
