When thinking about workplace safety, hard hats, steel-toed boots and harnesses often come to mind. However, safety isn’t only about preventing physical harm. It’s also about protecting our psychological health.
“Research statistics don’t lie,” said Joti Samra, Ph.D., a national leader in workplace psychological health and safety. “Conservatively, one out of five of us will experience a psychological health issue or illness every single year. Now more than ever, we have a critical imperative to take action.”
A trusted hub for workers, employers and leaders
WorkSafe Saskatchewan, the injury prevention partnership between the Saskatchewan Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) and the Ministry of Labour Relations and Workplace Safety, developed a free, easy-to-use online hub with Samra’s guidance. The Psychological Health and Safety Resource Centre provides guidance for organizations at every stage, whether they’re beginning to explore workplace psychological health or enhancing existing programs.
“Our goal is to make sure workers and employers in Saskatchewan have access to credible, practical tools that support psychological health and safety,” said Kevin Mooney, vice-president of prevention and employer services at the WCB.
Research shows that workplaces that prioritize psychological health and safety see fewer injuries, reduced absenteeism and higher productivity.
Practical tools, real impact
The resource centre provides resources that are simple, credible and easy to use, including:
- Step-by-step resources for leaders to begin developing a psychologically safe workplace
- Guides and templates to help employers build psychological health and safety into their policies and practices
- Self-assessment tools to help organizations identify strengths and gaps
- Educational videos and toolkits designed to fit the realities of Saskatchewan workplaces
- Worker resources to understand rights, build resources and find support
- Links to provincial psychological health services, making it easy to find additional help when needed
Why psychological health matters
Research shows that workplaces that prioritize psychological health and safety see fewer injuries, reduced absenteeism and higher productivity. “Ultimately, healthy, resilient and thriving organizations and teams are comprised of healthy, resilient and thriving workers, physically and psychologically,” Samra said.
Take the first step
Building psychologically healthy workplaces takes all of us – workers, employers, unions, industry associations and safety leaders. Visit worksafesask.ca/phsrc today to explore free tools, connect with community supports and begin building a stronger foundation for psychological health and safety in your workplace. When workplaces protect physical and psychological health, everyone thrives.
