Situational Awareness: Being fit for work

It’s important to be fit and ready for work both mentally and physically, otherwise you could put your own safety and the people around you at risk.
Research has shown that poor wellbeing can lead to a lack of concentration and therefore the ability to carry out tasks safely. By facing life’s challenges and building our resilience both mentally and physically, we improve our coping mechanisms so that we can come to work and be as safe as possible.
But there will likely be times when we need some support with our own wellbeing. It is important that we become more self-aware so we can spot the signs of poor physical and mental health early. We are all responsible for our own wellbeing, so knowing where you can get support is important and will help keep you and colleagues safe.
Leaders should understand how to seek advice and support for their employees when a health condition is affecting their job. This might involve providing information on avenues for specialist support, such as through employee assistance programmes or human resources departments and supporting on workplace adjustments which could help them stay in or return to work, alongside more general work-related health advice.
This short video clip covers the ‘Five ways to wellbeing’. This is based on evidence suggesting that there are five different ways in which you can improve your mental health and wellbeing. Trying some of the techniques mentioned could help you feel more positive and able to get the most out of life. The video provides practical advice from real people within the waste sector who have seen benefits of using these steps across multiple front line and support service roles.