This upcoming week we celebrate and focus on two important and coincidently relevant topics – occupational health and safety (OHS) and mental health. Interestingly that these two weeks coincide, particularly as we are seeing a shift from not just protecting a worker’s physical safety but the importance and need to protect their psychological safety. Here in Alberta changes to the OHS Act have highlighted this connection through new roles and responsibilities for employers, supervisors, and prime contractors.
North American Occupational Health and Safety Week is about making safety a habit through people, purpose, and passion. Its focus to draw attention to the importance of preventing injury and illness in the workplace, at home, and in the community.
Like physical health, mental health is something we all have. Thus, CMHA Mental Health Week is about raising awareness to end stigma associated with mental illness. 1 in 5 Canadians will have a mental health issue each year. Each of us, all 5 in 5, have mental health.
So, as you sit and ponder next week’s “to dos”. Take a moment to think about these events being celebrated and what you will do to promote change, reduce stigma, and protect those in your workplaces. There are events planned in your area so be sure to add one to your “to do” list for the week.
Check it out!
