Western Australia Mines and Petroleum Minister Bill Johnston this week launched Australia’s first code of practice to help promote and maintain mentally healthy workplaces for FIFO workers in the resources and construction sectors. Developed following extensive public consultation, the ‘Mentally healthy workplaces for fly-in fly-out workers in the resources and construction sectors’ code aims to address hazards and risk factors in FIFO workplaces.

Parts of the code encourage organisations to adopt a risk management process to identify potential psychosocial hazards, establish a positive and supportive workplace culture, provide suitable accommodation and rosters with sufficient time for rest and recreation. The code was created following recommendations from a Legislative Assembly Committee report on the impact of FIFO practices on workers’ mental health. Government-funded research, released by the Minister for Mental Health last year, found FIFO workers experience higher levels of psychological distress than non-FIFO workers. To view the code, visit www.dmp.wa.gov.au/Safety/Codes-of-practice-16145.aspx

Johnston stated: “The McGowan Government is committed to driving change in mental health and improving the wellbeing of FIFO workers and their families. The code identifies a number of potential hazards and risk factors, such as work demands and low levels of control, and it promotes strategies to deal with these issues. A positive, mentally healthy workplace not only benefits employees but also enhances an organisation’s reputation for supporting and respecting its workforce. I’d like to thank all the workers, family members, industry, professional bodies, unions, academia, consultants and local government for their feedback during consultation. It’s especially pleasing the Mining Industry Advisory Committee and Commission for Occupational Safety and Health unanimously endorsed the code.”