With Victoria recently going into a stage four lockdown as a result of the coronavirus pandemic and other states such as NSW monitoring infection rates closely, lockdown 2.0 will likely have an impact on the health and wellbeing of workers in a number of ways, according to experts.

“The key difference today is that, as a nation, we thought we had this pandemic under control and put it ‘behind us’ only to realise that it was far from over,” said Vitality Works’ Head of Client Partnerships, Sarah Curtis, who spoke as part of a recent AIHS webinar on the impacts of managing the second wave of COVID-19.

“This new wave will, therefore, create even more disappointments, frustrations and fatigue that will erode both physical and mental wellbeing even further,” said Curtis.

With the restrictions in place, Curtis said there will be a likely increase in sedentary behaviours and a decrease in physical activities which, in turn, could result in higher exposure to risks related to insufficient physical activity and “unhealthy” lifestyle choices.

“We can also expect to see people continuing to experience negative psychological emotions like stress, anxiety, worry and burnout due to the many pressures from COVID-19 (health, social, economic, mental and emotional,” she said.

“Social isolation will also play a big part in creating a sense of loneliness and a lack of connectedness for many people.”

Although it is hard to predict exactly what the impact on businesses will be, Curtis said that when employees are stressed, disengaged, tired and sedentary, their safety and performance suffer.

On the physical health side, she said organisations can expect to see more cases of pain, strains and discomfort from employees working from home with inadequate setup.

On the mental health side, more employees will present with signs of depression and anxiety leading to absenteeism, presenteeism and lack of productivity.

“But we shouldn’t only focus on the negatives,” said Curtis.

“Proactive organisations that recognised the importance of supporting their people early during the pandemic and put health and wellbeing measures in place can also reap some benefits and thrive from this crisis.”

Many have learned a lot during these difficult times and accelerated some business transformations that were long overdue, according to Curtis, who noted that they have also learned how to work in new ways (virtually), and have found this has brought people together and fostered strong cultures based on health and on care.

Curtis said it is important for organisations to listen to their staff in order to better understand their needs and how they can best support them as a responsible employer.

Once organisations understand employee needs, the best next step is to seek specific expertise to find ways and options to help protect their employees’ health and wellbeing.

“For some, this will take the form of mental health workshops to build knowledge and protective psychological skills, while for others it will take the form of engaging virtual team challenges to promote healthy choices and build connectivity,” said Curtis.

“Whatever form it takes, it is important that solutions are not too complicated and can be implemented promptly and ideally ensure there is some fun along the way.

“Finally, communication channels (two-way) should, more than ever, be kept open to encourage employee dialogue.”

In this process, Curtis said it was important for OHS professionals to know their obligations.

“Looking after the safety (both physical and psychological) of employees, no matter where they work from, is the right thing to do, makes business sense but is also an employer’s duty of care,” she said.

It is critical for employers to recognise and manage early the signs of anxiety, fatigue and burnout in their staff.

Prevention is always better than cure, so Curtis said it is important to equip managers and employees with the knowledge and skills that will ensure their safety in the workplace and at home.

“My final advice: listen, be adaptive, show that your care and take quick actions … our experience tells us that these will be the businesses that will thrive,” said Curtis.

Article originally published by the Australian Institute of Health and Safety.

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