RISK – Work conditions resulting in psychological illness
If the work environment doesn’t support Wellbeing, Suitable Duties must be advocated for the work environment and/or nature of work.
Suitable duties enable a person to safely perform their role requirements and enjoy a good quality life.
It is a legal requirement that workplaces do everything within reason to prevent a physical or psychological illness from occurring, and to assist those who already have an illness in order to provide them equal opportunity to fulfil their essential job role requirements and enable job progression.
Managers and Supervisors are to ensure their working environment is conducive to good wellbeing. This includes:
- Managing wellbeing issues promptly
- Making positive adjustments to the working environment and conditions
- Attending mental health training
- Adequately assessing and addressing all requests for change
An example of a suitable duty would be organising an ergonomic assessment when requested and implementing recommendations as required.