Managing Psychosocial Hazards at Work: Insights from the New Code of Practice 2024
At Spring Safety Consultants, we’re committed to helping organisations create safe, supportive, and productive work environments. With the recent release of the new Commonwealth Government Work Health and Safety (Managing Psychosocial Hazards at Work) Code of Practice 2024, we’re excited to share new guidance on managing psychosocial hazards in the workplace. Here’s what you need to know about this important development.
1. A New Code, A New Standard
The Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (WHS Act) and its accompanying regulations now include a structured approach to psychosocial hazards. This new Code of Practice is approved under section 274 of the WHS Act and offers duty holders practical tools and guidance to meet their obligations around psychosocial risk management.
This Code is more than just guidelines—it’s a significant legal resource that can even be referenced in court proceedings to determine what is “reasonably practicable” when managing psychosocial hazards.
2. The Hierarchy of Controls in Action
One key component of this Code is its emphasis on the hierarchy of controls for psychosocial risk. This method prioritises higher-order controls, requiring businesses to eliminate or minimize risks with the most effective measures available. From our experience at Spring Safety, we know this approach can make a meaningful difference in reducing workplace stress, harassment, and other hazards.
3. Built on Consultation and Community
The Code is the result of extensive consultation with Commonwealth, State, and Territory governments, along with unions, employer organizations, and industry stakeholders. By incorporating feedback from diverse voices, this Code is tailored to the realities of Australian workplaces while meeting the broader national standards set by Safe Work Australia.
4. A Practical Guide for Duty Holders
This Code is filled with practical steps that help businesses:
- Identify and assess psychosocial risks such as high job demands, poor work relationships, harassment, or low job control.
- Implement and monitor controls that address these hazards effectively.
- Respond to reports and incidents in a timely and confidential manner. This includes protecting the privacy of individuals who report sensitive issues like bullying or harassment, following the standards set by the Privacy Act 1988.
By providing clear guidance at every stage of risk management, the Code equips businesses to create workplaces that support both physical and psychological health.
5. Commitment to Human Rights and Privacy
The Code is also aligned with international human rights standards, particularly in regard to just and favorable work conditions as outlined in Article 7 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR). Additionally, it emphasises privacy protection under the Privacy Act, ensuring that sensitive information related to psychosocial hazards is handled securely.
How Spring Safety Can Help
With the introduction of this Code, organisations now have a clear path toward managing psychosocial risks effectively. At Spring Safety Consultants, we specialise in implementing these best practices through customized training, risk assessments, and strategic guidance. Our goal is to support your business in creating a work environment that is safe, inclusive, and legally compliant.
Ready to build a healthier workplace? Reach out to Spring Safety Consultants to discuss how we can help you align with the new Code of Practice and enhance your organisational culture.
For more insights on safety leadership, ESG strategies, and psychosocial support in the workplace, follow our blog or contact us directly.
