On 31 March 2022, the Work Health and Safety (WHS) laws replaced the health and safety elements of the Mines Safety and Inspection laws. For information visit www.demirs.wa.gov.au/whs
All health and safety notifications, forms and guidance for mining and petroleum has moved to the WorkSafe website
The information below has been left for historical compliance reference purposes
Controlling psychosocial hazards and risk factors overview
Some control measures are more effective than others. Controls can be ranked from the highest level of protection and reliability to the lowest.
Eliminating the hazard or risk factors is the most effective control, and should always be considered first. Where this is not practicable, organisations should minimise the risk by working through the hierarchy from most to least reliable measures. This may involve a single control measure or a combination of different controls that together provide the highest level of protection that is reasonably practicable.
Some hazards can be eliminated easily and should be done straight away, while others will need more effort and planning to resolve. Of those requiring more effort, organisations should prioritise areas for action, focusing first on those hazards with the highest level of risk.
Note: The same risk management processes used for physical health and safety may be applied to mental health and wellbeing.
Resources
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Psychologically safe and healthy workplaces: Risk management approach toolkit |
This DMIRS tool provides a step-by-step approach for managing psychological risks, covering identification, assessment, control and review. It is designed for use by managers, occupational safety and health professionals and human resources personnel. |
| Supporting good mental health in the workplace: A resource for agencies |
This resource by the WA Mental Health Commission provides information about mental health in the workplace, employer and employee obligations, creating an inclusive work environment, training and awareness raising, and managing performance. |
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This webpage provides information on minimising harm by implementing a structured change management process that includes consultation with workers for significant organisational changes. |
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This guide by the Australian Human Rights Commission assists managers to meet their obligations to all workers in their workplace, including those with a mental illness. It includes strategies for making reasonable adjustments for different types of mental illnesses and their symptoms, for communicating effectively and for managing performance. |
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| For more information on workers’ compensation claims and the return to work process, refer to the Insurance Commission of Western Australia and WorkCover WA. |