The Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC) is spearheading an innovative initiative to enhance workplace mental health, introducing a new Psychological Health and Safety Audit Program aimed at supporting Canadian employers.
This significant development is backed by a three-year, $820,000 contribution from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).
The program, orchestrated by MHCC’s educational division Opening Minds, seeks to equip employers with tools and strategies to improve the psychological health and safety (PHS) of their workers, mirroring the established practices of occupational health and safety audits. The initiative reflects a growing awareness of the importance of mental well-being in the workplace and aims to integrate psychological safety seamlessly into organizational culture.
Opening Minds is set to develop a comprehensive, evidence-based training regimen within this project, which includes certifying auditors to carry out PHS evaluations and piloting the scheme with select employers. The ultimate goal is to extend the PHS audit services nationwide, offering organizations concrete data to inform their approaches to mental health.
“This contribution from ESDC will support us in creating a credible, reputable and sustainable psychological health and safety audit program,” stated MHCC President and CEO Michel Rodrigue. He emphasized the expected outcomes: “more informed employers, psychologically safer workplaces, more engaged workforces, and mentally healthier communities.”
The announcement has also received endorsement from the government, with Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages, expressing his approval: “Mental care is healthcare. I am pleased to see MHCC developing cutting edge psychological health programs for workers.”
The PHS Audit Program is currently in its pilot phase, with plans for an independent evaluation to assess its efficacy. Results are anticipated to contribute significantly to the body of research in this field, with findings slated for publication in a peer-reviewed journal.
Employers wishing to participate can start by enrolling in the MHCC’s training course on Integrating Psychological Health and Safety. Following this, they may either train their internal auditors or hire certified third-party professionals through the program. Prospective auditors will undergo rigorous training, including a foundational course and a comprehensive 5-day Auditor Training program, culminating in full certification upon meeting the MHCC’s quality standards.