Manage psychosocial hazards at work

WHS duty extends to psychosocial hazards — workload, bullying, harassment, role conflict.

criticalcurrentongoingCriminal liability

Who must comply

All PCBUs (persons conducting a business or undertaking).

What triggers it

Conducting a business or undertaking with workers.

When due

Continuous WHS duty.

Evidence required

Risk assessment, consultation records, control measures, training, incident response procedures.

Max penalty

Industrial manslaughter penalties up to $20M (corporations) + 25 years prison (individuals) in some states for category 1 breaches

Summary

Model WHS Regulation 55A (adopted in most states) requires PCBUs to identify, assess, and control psychosocial hazards including high job demands, low support, role conflict, harmful behaviours, and exposure to traumatic events. Safe Work Australia's model code and state codes (e.g. Vic Compliance Code, NSW Code of Practice) set the standard.

Enforced by

Source legislation

Topics

whspsychosocialmental-health

Source: https://safeworkaustralia.gov.au/safety-topic/managing-health-and-safety/mental-health. Rules Mate is not a law firm. Always verify against the live regulator source before acting.