safe workspaces for teams
- jessicalewis-jones
- Oct 28, 2024
- 2 min read
De-coding Burnout Business Basics as understood Jessica Lewis-Jones
In 2022, Safe Work Australia released a code of practice that provides guidance on identifying and managing psychosocial hazards, including stress, bullying and fatigue.
The code of practice is an excellent point of reference for Australian leaders and businesses to use while navigating and building psychologically safe environments at work.
Ideally, this code should be used in conjunction with relevant laws and regulations to help create SOPPS, audits, team training, support networks and implement a strong culture of wellbeing within organisational teams.
Alarmingly, 61% of Australian workers reported experiencing burnout compared to the global average of 48%.
It's 2024 at the time of writing, If this wasn't implemented in your business back in 2022 when Safe Work Australia released this code of practice, PCBUs and/or those in a position of responsibility to do so, would do well to make it a priority before it's too late.
Further delaying this crucial element or even leaving it completely out of your business'
safety planning could potentially cost businesses and their people in a multitude of ways.
Here are some of the potential risks that employees and businesses face should companies remain non-compliant.
For Businesses:
Decreased morale and engagement reducing overall performance
High employee turnover increasing recruitment and training costs
Increased absenteeism leading to higher sick leave rates and reduced productivity
Reputation damage to your public image impacting customer loyalty & talent attraction
Legal fines and penalties for non-compliance to WHS laws and regulations
For Employees:
Burnout leading to overwhelm, chronic stress, and mental health issues
Physical health risks and repercussions such as heart disease, gut issues and fatigue
Workplace conflict can increase tension, bullying, harassment
Job insecurity and dissatisfaction leading to fears about future job stability
Long-term mental health impacts caused by prolonged exposure without support will likely lead to lasting conditions such as anxiety and depression.
Prioritising psychological safety through clear policies, supportive leadership, and ongoing training empowers employees to feel secure, valued, and motivated. When employees know their health and safety are genuinely prioritised, it translates into stronger teamwork, lower turnover, and higher morale across the organisation.
Download or checkout SafeWork Australia's model code of practice and supporting materials here:
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