Psychological
Safety

The concept of psychological safety is rapidly moving from a fringe discussion in HR and psychology circles to a mainstream way of thinking about organizational culture.  Many countries are moving to develop psychological safety standards for employers. In fact some countries are going beyond this to embody standards into labor legislation, obligating employers to create physical AND psychological safe workplaces.

Follow the links to see a curated view of what’s happening in some countries.

It’s critical to understand that while there are many overlaps with traditional engagement measures, psychological safety is a different definition of culture.  mfIQ supports forward thinking employers in developing your psych safety strategy.  Book a meeting to further discuss.

Evolving
Standards

The Mental Health Commission of Canada developed the National Standard for Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace.

CAN/CSA-Z1003-13/BNQ 9700-803/2013 (R2022), Psychological health and safety in the workplace is a voluntary standard that specifies requirements for a documented and systematic approach to develop and sustain a psychological healthy & safe workplace.

The WHO guidelines on mental health at work provide evidence-based recommendations to promote mental health, prevent mental health conditions, and enable people living with mental health conditions to participate and thrive in work.

Regulatory
Impacts

At the national level in Australia, the model Work Health and Safety (WHS) Act and Regulations were adopted by Safe Work Australia.

The “right to disconnect” laws are emerging throughout the European Union.

The European Commission published its strategy for a comprehensive approach to mental health in Europe. 

In the US there is growing pressure from various organizations for States to introduce psychological safety legislation that will build on current Department of Labor Acts.