Mentally Healthy Work

Awareness of mental health challenges in New Zealand is growing and so is the commitment to tackling them at work. WorkSafe is stepping up to support businesses and organisations in creating mentally healthy workplaces where people can thrive.

Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015, all workplaces have a responsibility to look after both physical and mental wellbeing. WorkSafe’s new Mentally Healthy Work team is helping build understanding and practical tools for employers and workers alike.

Mentally healthy work goes beyond tackling bullying or promoting resilience, it’s about how we design work, shape the environment, and build relationships.

WorkSafe highlights three key areas to focus on:

• Work Design: Do people feel heard and involved in shaping their roles?

• Work Environment: Are physical or psychological risks (like noise, isolation, or unclear expectations) being managed?

• Relationships: Are we fostering a supportive culture, recognising effort, and encouraging work-life balance?

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but every workplace can take steps to support mental wellbeing and create a healthier, more productive environment for everyone.

Ask The HS Officer

Q: What does “mentally healthy work” look like in construction?
A: It means thinking beyond PPE and hard hats. It’s about:

• Designing jobs so people aren’t overloaded or left working alone too often

• Ensuring clear roles, good planning, and avoiding last-minute chaos

• Keeping the work environment supportive, with strong teamwork, clear communication, and fair treatment

• Making sure workers feel comfortable raising issues without fear of being judged

  
  

Q: What are some early signs someone might be struggling?
A: On site, it could look like:

• A usually reliable person becoming withdrawn, irritable, or distracted

• More mistakes or near-misses than usual

• Increased sick days or showing up but not really present (“presenteeism”)
  If you notice changes, check in. A simple “You good, mate?” can go a long way.

Q: What can we do as a team to support mental health?
A:

• Start conversations: Make mental wellbeing part of toolbox talks.

• Buddy up: Especially for high-risk or solo tasks.

• Watch the hours: Long shifts and back-to-back days take a toll.

• Keep it fair: Consistent expectations and respect for everyone, from apprentices to site managers.

• Encourage breaks and check-ins: Short pauses can prevent bigger problems.

Toolbox talks ideas for the month

Week 1: Managing Stress and Fatigue on Site

Discuss common stressors in construction (deadlines, weather, physical demands)

Recognize signs of fatigue and stress

Share practical tips for managing workload, sleep, and breaks

Week 2: Fatigue Management During Longer Daylight Hours

Longer days can lead to overwork, importance of managing shifts and breaks

Risks of burnout and accidents due to fatigue

Week 3: Building Positive Team Relationships

Importance of supportive communication and respect on site

How strong team bonds improve safety and mental wellbeing

Encourage looking out for each other and open conversations

Week 4: Safe Manual Handling and Lifting Techniques

Preventing musculoskeletal injuries through proper lifting

Using mechanical aids where possible

Encouraging team lifts for heavy loads

Not Sure Where to Start with Health & Safety?

At Engage Safety, we know that managing workplace health and safety can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re not sure where to begin.

That’s why we’re offering a FREE one-hour consultation with our experienced Health & Safety Officer.
During your session, we’ll:

• Review your current health and safety setup

• Identify key areas for improvement

• Share practical steps to make your workplace safer and more compliant

  
  

No pressure. No obligation. Just expert advice to help you protect your people and your business.

Based right here in Queenstown, we’re your local health and safety specialists.

Book your free consultation today and take the first step toward a safer, smarter workplace.

Email us to admin@engagesafety.co.nz

Make the most of a Wet Day

We know how tough it can be to schedule time off-site for first aid training, especially when every workday counts. That’s why we’re now offering on-call First Aid Courses for wet weather days!

If your team is rained off site, give us a call and we’ll run a first aid course for your crew that same day (minimum of 10 participants).

Not enough people on your own? No worries, Join the list and we can combine teams from multiple businesses to run a course either at our office or yours (if space allows).

Get in touch next time the weather puts work on pause. We’ll help turn it into a productive day!

Explore Our Services

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- Basic First Aid & Basic life support NZQA: Unit standards 6401 & 6402

- Manage Emergency Situation NZQA: Unit standards 6400, 6401 & 6402

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