SafeWork NSW inspectors to look into psychosocial hazards in construction sector
SafeWork NSW inspectors are visiting construction sites across the state in a new initiative aimed at improving psychological health and safety in the industry.
The initiative, called the "Healthy Minds, Safer Sites" campaign, seeks to address psychosocial hazards that can cause stress responses and result in psychological or physical harm.
Under the initiative, SafeWork NSW inspectors are providing advice and resources to help employers manage these hazards, which include harassment, bullying, work pressure, traumatic events, and hazardous physical working conditions.
"Most employers have adequate systems in place to identify psychosocial hazards at work such as inappropriate interactions or behaviours. However, few are noted as adequately managing the psychosocial risks related to work systems or design, such as work overload, role clarity and instruction, or the physical environment, such as hazardous physical environments," said Trent Curtin, Head of SafeWork, in a statement.
"These are areas that need additional education, which our Inspectors will be providing during this programme," he said.
The construction industry, which employs more than 400,000 people in New South Wales, has seen a rise in mental health issues.
Between 2019 and 2024, almost 900 major workers' compensation claims related to mental stress were filed in the sector, with harassment and bullying being the most common causes.
"Employers are required by law to control psychosocial hazards and risks. Failing to address these risks may result in compliance action from SafeWork NSW Inspectors," Curtin said.
The campaign is a key component of the NSW Government's Psychological Health and Safety Strategy 2024-2026, which is supported by $5.6 million over the next two years for workplace mental health programmes.
It comes as psychosocial hazards are becoming more prevalent, with the costs and time off work associated with these claims typically three times higher than those related to physical injuries.
"Workplace mental ill health is estimated to cost Australian businesses up to $39 billion each year, due to lost participation and productivity," said Sophie Cotsis, NSW Minister for Work Health and Safety, in a statement.
"It is important we continue to provide businesses and workers with tools, resources, and support that enable workplaces to comply and take action to address psychosocial hazards at work."
Among the steps that employers can take to foster a psychologically healthy and safe workplace include:
