As humans we are naturally social. We live in family units, establish communities, forge strong friendship groups, join sports teams and enrol in social clubs. The importance of human connection has been well-documented. That’s why it’s so important to find social connection when working from home or in the office environment.
While the onset of the global pandemic saw the mass migration of the working population into home office spaces so they could continue to operate without the health risks, latest anecdotal data is suggesting that people are now craving human connection with their colleagues more than ever before. It’s an interesting phenomenon, but one that needs to be monitored closely to ensure that business owners and managers are keeping on top of their staff members mental wellbeing. Feelings of isolation and loneliness can set in with any human when left disconnected from their social setting.
According to Safe Work Australia most jobs involve some psychosocial hazards. These are the hazards that can harm workers’ mental health.
The things at work that can harm mental health are known as psychosocial hazards. These hazards can also cause physical harm.
Psychosocial hazards include:
- job demands
- low job control
- poor support
- lack of role clarity
- poor organisational change management
- inadequate reward and recognition
- poor organisational justice
- traumatic events or material
- remote or isolated work
- poor physical environment
- violence and aggression
- bullying
- harassment, including sexual harassment, and
- conflict or poor workplace relationships and interactions
Psychosocial hazards can also come from:
- the design or management of work
- a work environment
- plant (e.g. equipment) at a workplace, or
- workplace interactions or behaviours
Under the new model WHS laws, a person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) must manage the psychosocial risks in the workplace.
“Given all of the requirements that need to be met for businesses to maintain a safe work environment for their team members these days, it is essential that business owners and managers consider going above and beyond rather than just merely meeting the minimum standard when it comes to a connected environment. Long term it will ensure your people feel happier in the work space, and in this new era of staff shortages, I truly believe it will be the difference between the companies that attract and retain the best minds, and those that don’t.”
“Art Work Spaces have flexible office arrangements for those businesses that only require daily hire or part time fixed office space in the city. That is the beauty of the ‘no-contract’ arrangement we have in place.”
Art Work Spaces Community Manager, Gregor Davie
Source: Safe Work Australia
