Understanding ISO 45003:
The Path To Effective Implementation
and the Role of Qualified Professionals
By Gail Figaro, M.Sc, CBEP, R.E.E.
LINKAGE Q4 (2024) - HUMAN FACTORS
Conclusion: A Call to Action for Leaders and Organisations
I
SO 45003 offers a transformative approach to managing psychological health and safety at work. By implementing its guidelines, organisations can create a supportive and thriving work environment that benefits employees and the organisation. The commitment to psychological well-being is not just a moral and ethical responsibility but a strategic advantage that can drive productivity, engagement, and overall success.
Leaders and organisations are encouraged to recognise the critical importance of mental health in the workplace and take proactive steps to implement ISO 45003. Engaging competent and qualified professionals ensures that the implementation is effective and sustainable, leading to a healthier and more resilient workforce.
To maximise the benefits of ISO 45003, organisations should leverage the expertise of subject matter experts, such as Organisational and Business Psychologists, certified ISO implementers, and other professionals specialised in psychosocial risk management. Here's why their involvement is crucial:
Specialised Knowledge: These experts possess in-depth understanding of psychological health and safety, enabling them to identify subtle risks that may be overlooked by generalists.
Evidence-Based Strategies: They utilise evidence-based practices to develop and implement effective interventions, ensuring that strategies are grounded in research and best practices.
Comprehensive Training Programmes: Subject matter experts can design and deliver tailored training programs that educate employees and management about psychosocial risks, coping mechanisms, and the importance of psychological safety.
Ongoing Support and Evaluation: They provide continuous support and evaluation, helping organisations adapt to changing needs and ensuring that psychological health initiatives remain effective over time.
Linking ISO 45003 with ISO 45001
ISO 45003 was designed to complement ISO 45001, which is the international standard for Occupational Health and Safety management systems. Integrating both standards provides a comprehensive approach to workplace safety, addressing both physical and psychological health. Let us nor review why linking the two is beneficial:
Holistic Health and Safety: Combining the physical safety focus of ISO 45001 with the psychological safety emphasis of ISO 45003 ensures that all aspects of employee well-being are addressed.
Consistent Safety Culture: Integrating both standards fosters a consistent culture of safety, where physical and psychological health are equally prioritised.
Efficient Resource Utilisation: Streamlined processes and unified safety protocols minimise redundancy, optimising the use of resources and reducing administrative burden.
Enhanced Compliance and Risk Management: A comprehensive approach to health and safety supports compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, reducing the risk of penalties and enhancing overall risk management.
The Real Impact: Statistics that Highlight the Importance of Psychological Health and Safety
Statistics underscore the critical need for prioritising psychological health and safety in the workplace:
Burnout and Productivity: The American Psychological Association reports that workplace stress costs U.S. businesses up to $300 billion annually due to absenteeism, turnover, and decreased productivity.
Global Mental Health Crisis: According to the World Health Organization, depression and anxiety disorders cost the global economy $1 trillion USD each year in lost productivity.
Employee Retention: Research by Gallup shows that highly engaged workplaces have 41% lower absenteeism and 24% less turnover, emphasising the link between employee well-being and retention.
Bullying and Harassment: The Workplace Bullying Institute found that 19% of Americans have experienced bullying at work, with significant psychological and physical health consequences.
Impact on Health Costs: The Mental Health Foundation reports that work-related stress is the second most common compensated illness/injury in Australia, accounting for $10.9 billion annually in lost productivity and health care costs.
Conclusion: A Strategic Imperative for Organisational Success
Implementing ISO 45003 is not just about compliance or ethical responsibility; it is a strategic imperative that can drive organisational success. By prioritising psychological health and safety, organisations can create a supportive and resilient work environment where employees thrive.
The benefits are clear: improved productivity, higher employee engagement, reduced absenteeism and turnover, and enhanced organisational reputation.
Leaders and organisations must take proactive steps to implement ISO 45003, leveraging the expertise of qualified professionals to ensure effective and sustainable implementation. The integration of ISO 45003 with ISO 45001 provides a comprehensive approach to health and safety, addressing both physical and psychological well-being.
The time to act is now. Prioritising psychological health and safety is an investment in the future of your organisation, ensuring that your workforce is not only safe but also engaged, productive, and committed to achieving shared goals. Embrace ISO 45003 and lead the way in creating a healthier, more resilient workplace for all.
By focusing on these crucial aspects and utilising the right expertise, organisations can unlock the full potential of their workforce, driving sustained success and creating a positive impact on their employees' lives and overall business performance.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Gail Figaro is the Managing Director - Phi-Onyx Services Limited. She is a certified Change Manager, Enterprise Risk Manager, Business Excellence champion and provides Executive Coaching as well. In addition, she is certified by PECB Canada as a Senior Lead Auditor and Trainer for ISO Standards.