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We ended last week on an absolute high with our Genesis OHS Wellbeing Day 2025 at St Mary’s Loch, rounding off another busy 12 months with one of our favourite traditions. It’s a highlight in the Team Genesis calendar, a chance to step away from the whirlwind of daily work, recharge, and spend real quality time together.

This year, we embarked on a new adventure, journeying to the picturesque St Mary’s Loch. The stunning views and serene surroundings provided the perfect backdrop for a day of relaxation and connection. Our extended travel plans required meticulous preparation, ensuring all our on-call services, such as drug and alcohol testing, were fully operational, allowing us to enjoy the day worry-free.

The day began in the car park, where Rachel Eden, the mastermind behind the whole event, gathered us for a warm welcome and a run-through of the day’s plans. Rachel was positively beaming, fresh from receiving her excellent exam results (huge congratulations again, Rachel!).

Energised and ready to go, we split into two groups for the morning activities. Half the team began with nature bathing, a calming 45 minutes of quiet connection with the natural world, guided by the “5-4-3-2-1 grounding technique” to help us stay present and mindful. The other half tapped into their creative sides with an oil painting session, producing an array of beautiful, unique works that proved we have more than a few hidden artists in the team. Then we swapped over, giving everyone the chance to enjoy both experiences before lunch. Whether it was the stillness of the water and land or the splash of colour on a canvas, the morning left us feeling relaxed, inspired, and reconnected.

Lunchtime took us back to the welcoming Glen Café, where steaming bowls of homemade soup, freshly made sandwiches, and irresistible cakes awaited us. The team there truly went the extra mile, catering to every preference, vegan, gluten-free, and everything in between, all accompanied by yet another round of their excellent tea and coffee. Now, something Erin Ford would want us to mention… the moment she spotted vegan cheesecakes on the menu, she didn’t even hesitate, she ordered two straight away and with a little help from Simon, enjoyed every bite.

The afternoon turned up the fun factor with our hire of the Wild Dook Sauna. First up, Mhairi Burnett took us through a health and safety briefing, and, with us being in the health and safety realm ourselves, of course, we were in our element. Clipboards metaphorically at the ready, we soaked it all in before heading off to the real action. We rotated through paddle boarding, water dipping, ping pong, bocce, and, of course, the sauna itself, all made even better by wrapping up afterwards in our brand new Genesis-branded towels. And just when we thought the day couldn’t get more memorable, two RAF fighter jets soared overhead as we were drying off, the perfect, unexpected finale.

This year’s wellbeing day felt different, less about competition, more about slowing down, reconnecting, and simply enjoying each other’s company. We took time to reflect on our company values, share laughs, and appreciate the incredible team we have.

A big thank you to everyone who made it possible, and to those who joined in, especially Iain and Gavin, who embraced their first wellbeing day in true Genesis style. We appreciate your participation and the energy you brought to the day. Sadly, Rebecca, Tracy, and Emily couldn’t make it, but hopefully they’ll be with us next time. And we won’t have to wait long for that next big get-together. September marks our 20th anniversary celebrations, and we’re ready to make it another milestone to remember.

Here’s to carrying the laughter, connection, and calm of this day into everything we do for the rest of the year. St Mary’s Loch, you reminded us to pause, breathe, and truly enjoy the people we work alongside.

If you’d like more information on how to host your own team’s wellbeing day, or are interested in any of our wellbeing training courses, we’d be happy to help. Please get in touch with us on our contact page– we’d love to share ideas and support your team’s journey to better wellbeing.

At Genesis OHS, our commitment goes beyond occupational health and safety; we’re passionate about supporting the local community, young people, and the importance of sport, fitness and wellbeing. That’s why we’re proud to sponsor Queen of the South’s Under 17s team for the current football season.

Football brings people together, it builds fitness, confidence, and community. Whether it’s on the pitch or in the workplace, values like teamwork, discipline, and determination matter, and the QOS U17S are already proving just how strong those values are.

The first home game kicks off this Friday, 8 August at 7 pm at Palmerston Park against Dundee FC, and we’re proud to have our logo on the brand-new kits the team will be wearing.

Good luck to the team for the season ahead. We’ll be right there cheering you on!

In this post, Lisa McMurdo, our Occupational Health Nurse, explores how migraines in the workplace affect employees’ quality of life and work performance.

Migraines, the third most prevalent disease globally, are a significant concern, affecting over 10 million people in the UK—approximately one in seven individuals. Each year, migraines contribute to the loss of about 43 million days of work or school in the UK, costing the economy nearly £9 billion. Despite their significant impact, migraines remain poorly understood.

Migraines are more than headaches; they are a chronic neurological condition that can severely affect an individual’s quality of life and work performance. With one in seven people in the UK experiencing migraines, this is a common workplace concern. Employers must recognise the impact of migraines and understand how occupational health services can support affected employees.

Understanding Migraines and Their Workplace Impact

Migraines typically present as severe, throbbing pain on one side of the head, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and increased sensitivity to light and sound. These episodes can last from a few hours to several days, making it challenging for sufferers to manage work responsibilities due to their unpredictable nature.

In the workplace, migraines can significantly reduce concentration, cause memory problems, and impair cognitive function, hindering job performance. Frequent migraine attacks can lead to significant absenteeism, disrupting workflow and team dynamics. Furthermore, employees may attend work despite experiencing migraines, leading to suboptimal performance and a higher risk of errors.

How Occupational Health Services Can Help

Support from Occupational Health (OH) is crucial in creating a supportive work environment for employees with migraines. Here are several ways in which we here at Genesis OHS can help assist:

• Fitness for Work Assessments: Our Occupational Health Nurses conduct thorough evaluations to assess the severity and frequency of an employee’s migraines and their impact on job performance. They provide personalised recommendations, including reasonable work environment or schedule adjustments.
• Workplace Adjustments: Simple adjustments, such as employers providing a quiet, dimly lit area for recovery during an attack, can have a substantial impact and can make a significant difference. Offering flexible working hours or the option to work from home during migraine episodes helps employees manage their condition without compromising productivity.
• Stress Management Programs: Stress is a common trigger for migraines. OH can implement stress management workshops and resilience training to help employees cope with work-related stress.
• Regular Monitoring and Support: Provide ongoing support and regular check-ins to monitor the employee’s condition and the effectiveness of workplace adjustments. Open communication between employees and management ensures that new issues or needs are promptly addressed.

Under the Equality Act 2010, migraines can be considered a disability if they have a substantial and long-term adverse effect on a person’s ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities. Employers have a legal obligation to make reasonable adjustments to support employees with disabilities, including those with chronic migraines. This is not just a moral duty but a legal one.

The Benefits of Supporting Employees with Migraines

Failure to support employees with migraines can lead to increased absenteeism, reduced productivity, and potential legal issues. By leveraging occupational health services, employers can create a more inclusive and productive workplace, benefiting both the employee and the organisation.

For more information on how we here at Genesis OHS can help you manage migraines in the workplace, please call our team at 01387 248811 or email info@genesisohs.co.uk to discuss further.

References:

• Migraine Trust
• NHS: Migraines Overview
• Equality Act 2010
• Occupational Health at Work June/July 2024 (vol. 21/1) pp15-18

Ensuring the safety and wellbeing of employees is a top priority for any organisation. At Genesis Occupational Health and Safety, we understand the importance of a safe working environment and are committed to helping you achieve this through our Health and Safety Awareness training course.

Why Health and Safety Awareness Matters
Workplace accidents and injuries can have significant consequences, not just for the individuals involved but also for the organisation as a whole. Implementing robust health and safety protocols can help mitigate these risks, ensuring a safer and more productive work environment. Our Health and Safety Awareness course is designed to equip your team with the knowledge and skills to maintain a safe workplace.

Course Highlights
Our training covers a broad spectrum of essential topics, including:

• Introduction to Health and Safety: Understand the basics of health and safety.
• Health and Safety Law: Gain insights into the legal requirements and regulations governing workplace safety.
• Risks and Hazards: Learn how to identify and assess potential hazards in the workplace.
• How to Carry Out Your Duties: Practical guidance on fulfilling your safety responsibilities effectively.
• Practical Exercises: Engage in hands-on activities that reinforce key safety concepts.
• Certificate Valid for Three Years: Upon successful completion, participants will receive a certification valid for three years, demonstrating their commitment to workplace safety.

Flexible Delivery Options
We understand that every organisation has unique needs and constraints. That’s why we offer flexible delivery options for our Health and Safety Awareness course:

• Classroom Training – Available at Genesis OHS training suite facilities or onsite at your organisation, ideal for those who prefer in-person interaction and hands-on learning.
• Online Training – Perfect for remote teams, reducing the need for employees to be off-site for training.
• Duration – Choose between 1/2-day and full-day courses to fit your schedule and training requirements for Health and Safety Awareness.

Hear from Our Clients
Our clients have seen tangible benefits from our training programs. Here’s what one of our satisfied clients had to say:
“This course significantly improved our team’s understanding of safety protocols. The practical exercises were especially helpful. Highly recommended!”
G. Conchie Rosefield Salvage Ltd

For more information or to discuss your specific training needs, please contact us:
Phone: 01387 248811
Website: www.genesisohs.co.uk
Email: info@genesisohs.co.uk

Embracing Mental Health Awareness Week 

Mental Health Awareness Week is a pivotal time for us to reflect on our mental wellbeing and the wellbeing of those around us, particularly in our workplaces. It’s an opportunity to break the silence and dispel the stigma, promoting a culture of understanding and support for mental health issues within the professional environment. Mental health encompasses our emotional, psychological, and social wellbeing, influencing our thoughts, feelings, and actions in daily life. Maintaining good mental health is crucial for handling stress, fostering relationships, and making informed choices, directly impacting productivity and job satisfaction.

Recognising the importance of awareness is the first step toward change. Many employees with mental health conditions encounter stigma and discrimination, which can hinder them from seeking help. Increasing awareness can cultivate a more supportive and informed workplace community. There are many ways in which organisations can help promote a supportive workplace culture and make a meaningful impact, such as:

• • Training: Provide training sessions about various mental health conditions and their symptoms, such as our Mental Health Awareness and Wellbeing & Mental Health Self-care, courses which equip employees to identify people experiencing distress, assist them, and gain confidence in providing them with appropriate services and promoting good mental health in the workplace. 
    
  • Sharing personal stories: Encouraging employees to open up about their experiences can break down the barriers of stigma and create a more understanding and supportive workplace environment.
  • Promote Self-Care Practices: Advocating for mindfulness, exercise, healthy eating, and other self-care practices within the workplace empowers employees to take control of their mental health. Wellbeing days, sharing tips and resources for managing stress and maintaining mental wellness, reinforcing the message that their mental health matters.
  • Occupational Health: Explore additional services such as manager and self-referral counselling.
  • Maintaining Your Mental Health as an Employee: Maintaining your mental health is essential for professional success. You can achieve this by nurturing strong relationships with colleagues, exercising regularly to enhance your mood and alleviate stress, prioritising sleep to improve your overall well-being, eating a balanced diet, and engaging in activities like meditation or yoga to centre yourself and reduce anxiety.

Let’s use this Mental Health Awareness Week to start conversations and spread awareness within our workplaces. By creating a more compassionate and understanding work environment, we can ensure that mental health is recognised as a vital component of overall employee health. Remember, mental health is health, and caring for our minds is just as important as taking care of our bodies.

Lisa, OHN
Genesis OHS

 

In our digitally dominated work environments, the importance of an ‘ergonomic assessment for DSE’ cannot be overstated. Whether it’s a desktop in the office or a laptop at the kitchen table, our daily engagement with display screen equipment (DSE) has profound implications for our posture and overall health. Recognising this, our Health, Safety, and Wellbeing manager, Noora Mättö, emphasises proper ergonomic evaluation to prevent the discomfort and strain associated with prolonged DSE use. This blog serves as a guide for both employers and employees to establish and maintain good posture while using any DSE, supporting wellbeing and productivity.

A correctly arranged workstation is the cornerstone of good posture. Let’s break down what this should look like: 

• Screen Height and Distance: The top of your monitor should be at eye level and about an arm’s length away. This prevents you from bending your neck up or down as you look at the screen, reducing strain.
• Shoulder Position: Keep your shoulders relaxed. Your chair height should be such that you don’t hunch or shrug to use your keyboard.
• Keyboard and Mouse Placement: Your keyboard should be placed just below elbow height, allowing your arms to rest comfortably. Align your mouse with your elbow to avoid reaching or straining.
• Seating: The height of your seat should evenly support both the front and back of your thighs. If necessary, use a cushion to raise your seated position. There should be a small gap (2-3 cm) between the front of the seat and the back of your knees.
• Back Support: The back of the seat should support your lower back adequately. If not, use a cushion to prevent slouching and encourage a natural spine curve.
• Workstation Layout: Ensure the computer and screen are directly in front of you to prevent twisting your back. The screen and keyboard should be central on the desk.

Despite their portability and convenience, laptops often present ergonomic challenges due to their compact and fixed design. To transform your laptop into an ergonomically efficient workstation, consider these adjustments:

• Peripheral Integration: Attach a separate keyboard and mouse. This allows you to position the laptop on a stand or riser, elevating the screen to an optimal viewing height without affecting your ability to type and navigate comfortably.
• Elevated Viewing: When prolonged use is expected, connect your laptop to an external monitor. This setup enables you to maintain the top of the display at eye level, a key factor in preserving good posture without sacrificing the utility of your laptop’s own keyboard and trackpad.

Making these manageable adjustments can lead to major improvements in your posture and comfort, ensuring that even the most mobile workspaces promote a healthy, ergonomic setup.

But it’s not just about the initial setup. Employers have a duty to engage in continuous education and regular evaluations to ensure these setups remain optimal. It’s about creating a culture where adjustments and breaks are as natural as the tasks, and employees feel empowered to take ownership of their workspace comfort.

To encapsulate, embracing the correct posture and ergonomics is synonymous with nurturing a productive and healthy work environment. The effort to understand and implement these ergonomic guidelines is a testament to a collective commitment to workplace health — an intelligent move for employers looking to minimise health risks and for employees aiming to preserve their comfort and well-being.

As the boundaries between work and home blur, taking the initiative to fine-tune your workspace can mean the difference between enduring the day and enjoying it.

Are you prepared to prioritise the health of your team and optimise your workplace ergonomics? Contact us on 01387 248811 or drop us an email at info@genesisohs.co.uk for further details. Your journey towards a healthier, more efficient workspace begins here!

[Good posture when using display screen equipment – MSD – HSE]

 

 

 

Our Occupational Health Nurse, Lisa, investigates the consequences of working non-traditional hours and examines the crucial role that Occupational Health can play in supporting night shift workers, addressing their distinct challenges and enhancing their overall well-being.

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Traditional working hours have evolved significantly in a world where businesses often operate around the clock. Commercial organisations, particularly those in industries demanding continuous 24/7 operation, such as steel production, have adapted to meet the demands of a globalised economy. However, this transformation comes at a cost for individuals working these unconventional hours and society.

Approximately 21% of European workers are involved in some shift work, including night shifts. This shift towards a 24-hour society challenges the natural circadian rhythms that humans have developed over millions of years. We are inherently diurnal beings, designed to be active during the day and at rest during the night, with our body functions, including temperature, blood pressure, and hormone levels, governed by these rhythms. Yet, the demands of modern life have led us to override these instincts, and the implications for shift workers and society are profound. 

Let’s analyse the impacts of non-traditional working hours on employee well-being, exploring the challenges faced by individuals with unconventional schedules and delving into potential mitigation strategies, as well as how employers and Occupational Health can help support – 

Impact on Shift Workers:
Shift workers experience disruptions across various facets of their lives, including biological rhythms, social interactions, and domestic routines. These disruptions can lead to health problems, performance impairments, and safety risks associated with shiftwork.

Shift Work and Chronic Health:
One of the more concerning aspects of shift work, particularly those involving circadian disruption, is its potential link to breast cancer. Melatonin, a hormone central to regulating the body clock, plays a role in cancer risk. Recommendations to mitigate cancer risk among night workers include limiting consecutive night shifts and promoting healthy lifestyles.

Shift Work and Metabolic Disorders:
Shift workers are more likely to develop metabolic disorders like obesity, dyslipidaemia, abnormal blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes. Disrupted eating habits, including consuming more energy at night, contribute to these risks. Gastrointestinal problems due to variations in digestive processes are also common. Employers can enhance the health and well-being of shift workers by offering healthy food options in vending machines and providing access to facilities for storing and reheating home-cooked meals. Hosting regular well-being days throughout the year can provide nutritional guidance as part of their well-being initiatives.

Reproductive Health:
Shift work has also shown associations with reproductive health issues, including pre-term delivery, small-for-gestational-age births, preeclampsia, and gestational hypertension. Reducing exposure to shiftwork may benefit pregnant women. Employers must conduct risk assessments for individuals who become pregnant, are breastfeeding, or have given birth within the last six months. These assessments should also be undertaken regularly as the pregnancy advances or if there are significant alterations in the individual’s work duties or work environment.

Mental Health:
Shift work can induce stress, characterised by a lack of job autonomy and social isolation. The mental health effects of shift work, particularly among female shift workers, warrant further research. Providing counselling services to assist employees can be crucial in offering support.

Safety Risks:
Fatigue and cognitive impairment significantly increase the risk of mistakes and accidents during night shifts. This risk accumulates over consecutive night shifts, underscoring the importance of limiting their number and duration. Incorporating rest breaks can help prevent risk escalation during shifts.

Health Assessment:
Night workers require regular health assessments, with ongoing checks to evaluate the severity of conditions, individual coping mechanisms, and managing health issues. 

Mitigation Strategies for Shift Workers:
For those engaged in shift work, prioritising sleep is paramount. Aiming for 7-9 hours per 24-hour period, establishing a consistent sleep schedule and bedtime routine, strategically napping, creating a comfortable sleep environment, and monitoring caffeine and nicotine intake are essential strategies. Suppose employees are showing any potential signs of sleep deprivation, depending on how a sleep disorder is affecting them within their role. In that case, OH can conduct a fitness-for-work assessment to ensure that appropriate measures and plans are in place to safeguard the well-being of those employees.

In summary, proactive measures are essential, while there may not be a one-size-fits-all solution to the intricacies associated with shift work. To effectively address shift workers’ unique needs and challenges, employers must establish strong partnerships with occupational health professionals.

Employers can play a pivotal role in mitigating the negative impacts of shift work. Key considerations include designing work schedules that minimise circadian rhythms and sleep disruptions. Factors like minimising rapid forward rotation between shifts, providing adequate intervals between shifts, and avoiding extended night shifts should be considered. By adopting a comprehensive approach to address these issues, occupational health can significantly contribute to the overall health, safety, and well-being of those working unsocial hours.
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To learn more about how Genesis can help assist with the services mentioned above, please contact us on 01387 248811 or email info@genesisohs.co.uk

Leading up to World Menopause Awareness Day, the Occupational Health Team here at Genesis have been busy providing in-house training sessions for our employees and delivering informative toolbox talks to many of our clients. In this latest blog post, the team encapsulate the significance of World Menopause Day, an annual event observed on October 18th, aimed at increasing awareness, dispelling stigmas, and spotlighting the available support systems for enhancing the health and well-being of individuals navigating the menopausal journey.

Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years, typically between the ages of 45 and 55. While it signifies the cessation of menstruation, it also brings physical and hormonal changes. One crucial aspect often overshadowed during this phase is the impact of menopause on cardiovascular health. As we observe Menopause Awareness Day today, it’s essential to shed light on the intersection of menopause and cardiovascular health and the measures women can take to maintain a healthy heart throughout this transformative journey.

Furthermore, it’s important to recognise that menopause is not solely a matter of gender or age; it’s an organisational issue that can directly or indirectly affect colleagues. Awareness surrounding this topic is crucial for reducing the stigma associated with menopause and fostering open conversations about it.”

Understanding Menopause

Menopause occurs when a woman’s ovaries stop producing eggs, and the levels of oestrogen and progesterone, two vital female hormones, decline significantly. This hormonal shift results in various physical and emotional symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and changes in bone density. However, it also has significant implications for the cardiovascular system.

The Connection Between Menopause and Cardiovascular Health

Hormonal Changes: Oestrogen, a vital hormone in regulating the menstrual cycle, has a protective effect on the cardiovascular system. It helps maintain healthy blood vessel function, reduces inflammation, and promotes good cholesterol levels. As oestrogen levels drop during menopause, these protective effects diminish, increasing the risk of heart disease.

Increased Risk Factors: Menopause often coincides with increased risk factors for heart disease, such as weight gain, high blood pressure, and unfavourable changes in cholesterol levels. Combining these increased risks with hormonal changes creates a perfect storm for cardiovascular issues.

Vascular Changes: Menopause can lead to changes in the structure and function of blood vessels, making them less elastic and more prone to plaque buildup. Such changes can contribute to the development of atherosclerosis, a condition where arteries become narrow and hardened, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Metabolic Changes: Menopause is associated with an increased tendency to develop insulin resistance, which can lead to type 2 diabetes. Diabetes is a significant risk factor for heart disease.

Acting for Cardiovascular Health

Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Women going through menopause can reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease by adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle, such as eating a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, managing stress, and avoiding smoking.

Hormone Therapy: Some women may consider hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to alleviate menopausal symptoms and potentially reduce the risk of heart disease. However, HRT may not be suitable for everyone and should be discussed with a healthcare provider to assess the individual’s risk and benefits.

Regular Check-ups: Women should prioritise regular health check-ups, including blood pressure and cholesterol monitoring. Early detection of risk factors allows for timely intervention and management.

Education and Awareness: On Menopause Awareness Day and beyond, it is crucial to spread awareness about the relationship between menopause and cardiovascular health. Knowledge empowers women to take control of their heart health.

How Occupational Health Can Support Menopause in the Workplace

Occupational health can help provide valuable support to help employees manage menopause. Here are some of the services that we can offer here at Genesis:

Education and Awareness: Conduct workshops and training sessions to raise awareness about menopause and its potential impact on employees. These sessions can educate employees and managers on the physical and emotional changes associated with menopause. [Course information Sheets available on request. Please email info@genesisohs.co.uk]

Individual Health Assessments: Face-to-face, telephone or video assessments for employees experiencing menopausal symptoms. These assessments can help identify specific needs and accommodations required. Recommendations provided can guide managing common menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances, as well as facilitating the transition back to work and implementing flexible work arrangements.

Ergonomics and Workplace Design: Ensure that workstations and environments are designed for the comfort and well-being of employees, considering the specific needs of those experiencing menopause.

Mental Health Support: Self-referral and manager referrals for counselling can be initiated through the Genesis OHS portal to provide mental health support and referrals to employees facing emotional and psychological challenges during menopause.

Stress Management: Stress management training and strategies to assist employees and managers in mitigating stress linked to menopausal symptoms as part of their Mental Health and well-being Awareness and Mental Health Self-Care courses. [Course information Sheets available on request. Please email info@genesisohs.co.uk]

Access to Healthcare: Genesis referrals can provide employees access to in-house physiotherapy and holistic approaches, including massage therapy and reflexology.

Health Promotion Days: Health promotion campaigns that encourage healthy lifestyle choices, such as regular exercise and a balanced diet, to alleviate menopausal symptoms can be conducted onsite or here at Genesis Training Centre, 5 Buccleuch Street, Dumfries, DG1 2AT.

As we conclude, it is imperative to remember that menopause, a natural phase in a woman’s life, necessitates a profound understanding of its implications for cardiovascular health. By acknowledging and addressing the hormonal, metabolic, and vascular changes that accompany menopause, women are equipped to manage their heart disease risk proactively. With knowledge as their ally and healthy lifestyle choices as their weapon, women can confidently embrace the menopausal journey, securing a future of enduring heart health and vitality. Furthermore, through our various services, from education and individual health assessments to ergonomic support and mental health resources, Genesis OHS is dedicated to fostering a workplace environment where everyone can thrive during this significant life transition.

World Mental Health Day October 2023

As the calendar flips to October, Genesis Occupational Health Nurses Tara and Lisa focus on ‘World Mental Health Day’ and delve into a topic of utmost importance – mental well-being in the workplace.

In today’s dynamic times, where the lines between personal and professional life often blur, the recognition and proactive handling of mental health have never been more crucial. At Genesis OHS, we firmly believe that every individual should thrive in a work environment that cares for their physical health and prioritises their mental well-being. In this blog post, the OH team share valuable insights, practical strategies, and essential resources to foster mental wellness in the workplace.

Mental health awareness has gained significant traction in recent years, shedding light on the importance of mental well-being in all aspects of our lives, including the workplace. Recognising the profound impact mental health has on their workforce, employers are increasingly investing in initiatives to promote mental wellness among employees. Recognising mental health as a universal human right is imperative in promoting a society that values every individual’s dignity, equity, and well-being.

Employers play a pivotal role in fostering a supportive workplace environment. By promoting open communication, offering resources, and eliminating stigma, they can create an atmosphere where employees feel safe discussing their mental health challenges. This open dialogue is essential in addressing issues early on, preventing escalation, and providing timely support.

Employees who feel mentally well are more likely to be productive and engaged in their work. A positive work environment prioritising mental health reduces stress and morale. Mentally healthy employees can better focus on their tasks, leading to increased efficiency and higher-quality work output. Moreover, a mentally healthy workforce is more likely to collaborate effectively, contributing to a positive and vibrant workplace culture.

Mental health issues often lead to absenteeism, where employees cannot work due to their condition. Additionally, even when physically present, employees experiencing mental health challenges might not be fully productive, a phenomenon known as presenteeism. Investing in mental health initiatives can significantly reduce absenteeism and presenteeism rates, saving employers substantial costs associated with lost productivity.

In today’s competitive job market, prospective employees seek employers who prioritise their well-being. Companies that invest in mental health initiatives demonstrate their commitment to the holistic welfare of their employees. This reputation helps attract top talent and enhances employee loyalty. Moreover, by fostering a mentally healthy workplace, employers can reduce turnover rates, as employees are more likely to stay in an environment where they feel valued and supported.

Apart from the moral imperative to care for employees’ well-being, there are legal and ethical reasons for employers to address mental health in the workplace. Many countries have laws requiring employers to provide a safe and healthy work environment, including mental health considerations. Failing to meet these obligations can result in legal consequences and damage a company’s reputation.

In summary, acknowledging mental health as a strategic investment and a universal human right is critical to fostering healthier workplaces and societies. Employers who invest in mental health initiatives not only respond to societal awareness but also drive productivity, compassion, and sustainability. Moving forward, organisations should prioritise open communication, reduce stigma, and provide mental well-being resources to empower employees and reap benefits like increased productivity, reduced absenteeism, and enhanced talent retention. Recognising mental health as a universal right is our collective responsibility to create dignified environments. It transcends legal and ethical obligations, shaping our workplaces and societies into more inclusive, compassionate, and prosperous spaces where everyone can thrive.

Genesis offers various services to promote mental health in the workplace. If you’d like to delve deeper into these services, please don’t hesitate to contact us for a more detailed discussion.

Ensuring the safety and wellbeing of employees should be a top priority for any organisation. In industries where respiratory protective equipment (RPE) is necessary, like construction, healthcare, and manufacturing, fit testing is a critical process to guarantee that the RPE provides adequate protection. If the mask does not fit, it does not protect!

Fit2Fit Face Fit Testing Accreditation is a certification that organisations can achieve to demonstrate their commitment to adherence to industry standards. The accreditation scheme was developed by British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). In this blog post, we will explore what Fit2Fit Face Fit Testing accreditation is, its significance and benefits, and recall our advisors’ journey to achieve the accreditation.

Understanding Fit2Fit Face Fit Testing Accreditation

Fit2Fit is a recognised accreditation scheme for organisations that perform face fit testing for respiratory protective equipment. Face fit testing is a method used to ensure that an individual’s chosen RPE forms an effective seal around their face, preventing the ingress of hazardous substances. The scheme was established to set a high standard for face fit testing and accreditation. An accreditation can be achieved in both qualitative and quantitative method. The qualitative method is a simple test that can be used to test the fit of disposable and reusable half face respirators. This method is a subjective test and relies on an honest response from the test subject and their ability to detect taste. Quantitative face fit testing is an objective method that measures the mask’s fit by calculating the ratio of particles outside the mask to particles inside the mask. This method uses specialised equipment, such as particle counting device or a controlled negative pressure system, to provide a numerical result. This method can be used to evaluate the fit of any mask or respirator, including tight-fitting masks that may not be suitable for qualitative testing.

Significance and Benefits of Accreditation

Achieving Fit2Fit accreditation signifies that the organisation is compliant with Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations and fulfils the standards set by the HSE and BSIF. The accreditation demonstrates commitment to creating and upholding safe working environment and to educating about the risks of exposure to harmful substances. Those holding the accreditation can signify commitment to quality standards and professionalism. Holding the accreditation ensures that those carrying out face fit testing are doing so in the highest standard and have undergone training and examination to carry out the process correctly every time.

The Fit2Fit Accreditation Process

Our Health and Safety Advisors Noora Mättö and Stephen Little have achieved this prestigious accreditation in the qualitative face fit testing method. They received specialised in-house training to ensure they understand the testing procedure thoroughly. On the assessment day, our advisors attended the Institute of Occupational Medicine (IOM) in Edinburgh to process through the required testing and examination to achieve the accreditation. The test comprises of two parts – a multiple choice closed book examination based on the HSE document INDG497 Guidance on respiratory protective equipment (RPE) fit testing and the BSIF companion document and a practical element where the candidates are asked to perform a mock face fit test with troubleshooting scenarios presented to them. Although performing under examination conditions is stressful to most people, or our advisors both achieved their accreditation and are now allowed to perform qualitative face fit testing under the Fit2Fit banner. To ensure professional development and the quality of assessors, the examination and practical test must be repeated in full in no less than three years from the date of qualification to keep the accreditation.

Genesis Can Offer Face Fit Testing and Training Services

We can offer our clients face fit testing related services that are carried out by our accredited Health & Safety Advisors.

Qualitative face fit testing – Our Fit2Fit accredited advisors can carry out qualitative face fit testing for disposable and reusable tight-fitting half-face respirators. The service includes a fit check for the mask provided, the fit test with either a pass or a fail result, and education to the employee about respiratory risks at work and how to take care of their masks appropriately. The whole process only takes 15 minutes per person so multiple employees can be tested in the same day guaranteeing efficiency.  Our advisors will present a badge to confirm their qualification under the scheme.

Face fit testing train the trainer – Do you want to have trained employees within your organisation who can carry out qualitative face fit testing? We offer a Face Fit Testing Train the Trainer half-day course which equips delegates with necessary knowledge about the COSHH regulations and how to carry out the face fit testing process step-by-step. Because our advisors are Fit2Fit accredited, you will always receive quality training based on the principles that our advisors needed to know and understand to achieve the accreditation. We can also order face-fit testing kits to provide to you if you don’t already have one.  Further details on this service can be found on our website.