Draft code targeting FIFO mental health open for comment

The code supports the promotion and maintenance of mentally healthy workplaces
Date: Tuesday, 20 February 2018

A draft code of practice to help promote and maintain mentally healthy workplaces for fly-in fly-out workers has been released for public comment by the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DMIRS).

The draft code has been developed following recommendations from the Legislative Assembly Education and Health Standing Committee’s report on the impact of fly-in, fly-out (FIFO) work practices on workers' mental health.

Mines and Petroleum Minister Bill Johnston said creating a mentally healthy workplace not only benefits the mental health and wellbeing of the workforce but builds trust and respect, and enhances an organisation's reputation.

"The draft code aims to provide companies that employ FIFO workers with guidance on managing mental illness at work," Mr Johnston said.

"Consultation has been an important part of developing the draft code and I encourage Western Australians to provide comment on the draft document.

Members of the Mining Industry Advisory Committee’s Mental Health Strategies Working Group were involved in the development of the draft.

The draft code of practice provides guidance on the risk management approach to identifying and addressing workplace risks that can affect the mental health of workers.

The public comment period for the Mentally healthy workplaces for fly-in fly-out (FIFO) workers in the resources and construction sectors - code of practice runs until 19 April 2018.