CSA Standard for Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace
Implementing the CSA Standard for Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace.
3 key elements for building a strong foundation
Taking the time to build a strong foundation helps ensure success. Adding the Standard to existing operations and building a sustainable Psychological Health and Safety Management System (PHSMS) is no different. With the principles of confidentiality, as well as diversity, equity, inclusion, and reconciliation in mind, implementation has three key elements:
Establish commitment and clear leadership
- Policy statement: Signed by leadership and communicated widely.
- Champions and sponsors: Responsibilities and appropriate resources are assigned for the PHSMS.
Leadership should ‘walk the talk’, actively promote the Psychological Health & Safety Policy, provide training and resources, develop strategic objectives, and maintain current education and awareness on the topic.
Facilitate meaningful engagement and participation
- Stakeholder participation: Required in all stages of the PHSMS design, development, and implementation.
- Provide support: Encourage participation, remove barriers, provide appropriate training, and include appropriate representatives.
Worker participation early in the decision-making process is invaluable because it increases motivation and commitment, supporting the overall implementation and sustainment of the PHSMS.
Build supporting policies and procedures
- Establish, promote, and maintain PHSMS that supports the Standard and the organization’s ethics, values, mission, and vision.
- Build processes, procedures, and programs so the policy becomes part of all operations.
- Review existing policies and procedures to ensure they support the Standard.
Organize and update policies and procedures to support actions that sustain the PHSMS.