Being exposed to, investigating or witnessing a traumatic event or material related to such an event. An event that is unexpected, perceived as being uncontrollable or is the result of intentional cruelty has a higher likelihood of being traumatic. This includes indirect exposure and cumulative trauma.
Being exposed to a traumatic event or being witness to such an event is a psycholocial risk because such events have an overwhelming physiological stress response.
Severely distressing events such as workplace violence, sexual violence, workpalce fatality, severe injuries, exposure to pornographic material are some examples of events that would be considered to be outside the normal range of human experience. Certain roles such as first responders and staff who work in fields such as child protection would potenitally be encountering such events on a regular basis and need to have strategies in place to prevent psychological harm.
Example:
Maria works in a large manufacturing plant and is responsible for operating industrial machinery. The company prioritises safety, but an unfortunate accident occurred recently where a fellow worker was injured by a machine Maria was overseeing. This injury has led to permanent disability and this worker being unable to return to work.
Maria has been unable to sleep and has been having nightmares about the accident for several months. Although logically Maria knows that she did not cause the accident she is finding it difficult to emotionally regulate her response. She is now wondering if she should approach her manager to discuss her ongoing difficulties and seek support.
What contributes to Traumatic Events or Material
- Events that induce high levels of fear.
- Events that put the health and safety of themselves and others at high risk
- Exposure to natural disasters, injured or deceased persons.
- Seeing, hearing or reading about traumatic events that caused abuse or neglect.
- Being the support person to victims or investigating such events.
Negative consequences of Traumatic Events or Material
- PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder)
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Reduced productivity
- Increased absenteeism
- Insomnia
Strategies for mitigating Traumatic Events or Material
Develop Comprehensive Trauma Response Plans: Create a trauma response plan for handling events. These plans should outline immediate actions, list the support services available and have long term follow-up procedures to ensure employees receive the necessary care and assistance.
Monitor and Assess Employee Wellbeing: Regularly assess the wellbeing of employees through surveys, feedback sessions, and wellbeing check-ins. Use this date to identify areas of concern and implement interventions that support those who may be struggling.
Establish Clear Reporting Mechanisms: Create a clear and confidential reporting system that enables employees to report traumatic events or concerns about their mental health. Ensure these reports are taken seriously and addressed promptly and professionally, providing employees with tools to improve their wellbeing.
