Creating Safe Spaces at Work
Creating safe spaces for staff is essential for improving employee well-being and effectiveness. A “safe space” is
more than just a hazard-free physical work environment; they are work spaces and teams where employees can feel psychologically safe, respected, and supported.
Here’s why creating “safe spaces” matter:
- Physical Safety: Staff face workplace hazards, exposure to illnesses, and physical strain. A safe environment minimizes these risks, protecting one’s health and ability to work effectively.
- Emotional Well-being: The demands of care-giving can lead to stress, burnout, and emotional exhaustion. A supportive environment helps mitigate these challenges and promotes mental health.
- Team Morale and Retention: Employees perform better when they feel valued and respected. Safe spaces reduce stress, foster teamwork, and help retain experienced staff.
Steps to Create Safe Spaces for Staff
- Promote Open Communication: Encourage staff to voice concerns, share feedback, and report incidents without fear of retaliation. Reinforce safe communication channels such OHS committee meetings or team check ins.
- Foster Inclusion and Respect: Cultivate a workplace culture that respects diversity and promotes belonging. Recognize and call out all forms of discrimination or harassment.
- Support Work-Life Balance: Encourage staff to take breaks and provide access to mental health resources. Ensuring staff are rested and supported at work improves morale and reduces burnout.
- Monitor and Adjust Policies: Continuously evaluate workplace safety measures and policies based on staff
feedback and incident reporting.
A Shared Responsibility
Creating and maintaining safe spaces is an intentional and collaborative effort. Management, supervisors, and team members must work together to ensure a supportive and thriving work environment. By prioritizing this effort, we not only protect each other but also empower our workforce to provide the highest standard of care.
Additional Resources:
Healthcare Excellence CanadaFor more information, please contact:
Lesley MacKinnon
Manager, Safety
Lesley.Mackinnon@BethanySeniors.com
Or
Site OHS Committee Chair or Representative
Telus Health supports employee health and well-being.
Bethany employees have access to a wide range of resources, such as:
- Telus Health Blog
- Webinars and Events
- 24/7 Specialist Counselling
username: bcs
Password: EAP
Phone: 1-877-207-8833
Phone App: Telus Health One
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