Employers are being urged to proactively "minimise feelings of uncertainty" during the COVID-19 pandemic, with researchers finding the unprecedented job losses caused by COVID-19 are causing high levels of depression among employed workers.
The Fair Work Commission has advised an employer and a union to adopt a "new cooperative approach" to workplace safety concerns during the COVID-19 pandemic, after the former sought orders curtailing the union's entry rights in light of current health restrictions.
The COVID-19 pandemic is causing unhealthy, fatigue-inducing sleeping habits in workers, and employers are being urged to take steps to maximise workplace alertness and safety, including monitoring for sleep disorders.
A new WHS Code of Practice has provided PCBUs with clear guidance on their duties to consult with workers, health and safety representatives and other businesses in a COVID-19 context. Meanwhile, Comcare has produced a "micro-learn" video on using face masks at work in the pandemic.
BHP responded to the COVID-19 pandemic by providing "digital personal protective equipment" to staff, expanding its psychological support services and ensuring its 9,000-plus suppliers applied stringent health and safety standards to their own workforces, it claims in its annual report.
R U OK? Day today is particularly important this year, with COVID-19 posing major mental health challenges. An occupational health expert says meaningful workplace conversations aren't about problem solving, but stopping and listening.
