Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) regulations are crucial for ensuring the well-being of employees in the workplace. In recent years, the focus on workplace safety has extended beyond physical hazards to include psychosocial hazards, which can have a significant impact on employees’ mental and emotional health. In Victoria, Australia, there has been growing anticipation regarding when the amendment to the Vic 2017 OHS regulations will incorporate provisions for psychosocial hazards. In this article, we explore the timeline and implications of this anticipated change.

Understanding Psychosocial Hazards

Psychosocial hazards encompass a range of factors in the workplace that can negatively affect employees’ mental health and well-being. These hazards can include workplace stress, bullying, harassment, excessive workload, and inadequate support systems. Recognising the importance of addressing psychosocial hazards is essential for creating a safe and healthy work environment.

The Need for Amendment

The 2017 OHS regulations in Victoria primarily focus on physical safety, but they do not adequately address psychosocial hazards. This gap in the regulations has led to concerns about the well-being of workers facing such hazards. Employees who experience psychosocial hazards are at risk of developing mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and burnout. Consequently, there has been a growing call for the OHS regulations to be amended to provide protection against these hazards.

Timeline for Amendment

There appears to be no specific timeline available for when the Victoria OHS regulations will be amended to include psychosocial hazards. However, it’s important to note that legislative processes can be lengthy and complex, involving consultations with various stakeholders, drafting of new regulations, and the passage of bills through the legislative bodies. Therefore, it is possible that progress is being made. It is advisable to keep a close watch on updates from the Victorian government and WorkSafe Victoria.

The Implications of Amendment

The incorporation of provisions for psychosocial hazards into Victoria’s OHS regulations will have several significant implications:

• Employee Well-being: Employees would benefit from improved mental health support in the workplace, leading to reduced stress and a better work-life balance.
• Employer Responsibilities: Employers would have a legal obligation to identify, assess, and control psychosocial hazards in the workplace, fostering a safer and more inclusive work environment.
• Training and Awareness: The amendment would necessitate training and awareness programs for employers and employees, helping them understand and address psychosocial hazards effectively.
• Legal Consequences: Failure to address psychosocial hazards could lead to legal consequences for employers, emphasizing the importance of compliance.

The anticipation surrounding the amendment to the 2017 OHS regulations in Victoria to include psychosocial hazards is a testament to the growing recognition of the importance of mental health and well-being in the workplace. While the timeline for this amendment remains uncertain, its implications for employees and employers alike are significant. It is essential for all stakeholders to stay informed about developments and actively participate in the process to ensure that the workplace becomes a safer, healthier, and more supportive environment for everyone. Ideally stay ahead of the legislation and commence Psychosocial Hazard Risk Assessment and Workplace Mental Health Awareness Training. For assistance with this contact us on ohsandhr@gmail.com.

UPDATE FROM WORKSAFE VICTORIA 24 Feb 25

“The Victorian Government has confirmed new psychological health regulations will be introduced by the end of the year.”… “A supporting compliance code will also be available to provide employers with practical guidance on how to meet their duties under the new regulations. Additional guidance and templates will be provided, including to promote the use of prevention plans to help identify and manage psychosocial hazards to prevent risks to workers’ health and wellbeing.”
Psychological Health Regulations update -WorkSafe Victoria