Members Take Action for Safer Workplaces

Throughout October, BCNU has been marking Mental Health Awareness Month by shining a light on the urgent need to prioritize psychological health and safety in every workplace.

Members may have seen BCNU’s Name the Hazard, Shape the Change campaign in action — an initiative empowering members to build psychologically safer workplaces by identifying and naming the psychosocial hazards that cause harm, and taking concrete steps to create meaningful change.

Across the province, BCNU’s regional OHS and mental health representatives have been connecting with members at worksites and distributing new tools and resources designed to spark dialogue, strengthen peer support, and recognize psychological injuries. This includes a psychological injury reporting self-check bookmark and quick reference guide. 

Members have also been invited to complete and return a psychological health self-check chart – a practical tool that helps them assess their work environments and inform real improvements. The data collected will guide site-level actions and be shared directly with Joint Occupational Health and Safety (JOHS) committees to drive measurable change where it matters most.

As part of this effort, BCNU also hosted two lunch-hour education sessions to help members strengthen their understanding of psychological health and safety at work. The Oct.16 Embodying Your Practice webinar explored how trauma-informed resources can support nurses through the daily challenges of life and work, while the Oct. 24 Psychosocial Hazards skill lab focused on identifying workplace risks and applying practical strategies to promote mental well-being and psychologically safe environments.

We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who has already taken part in the campaign and shared their experiences. Your voices are helping BCNU identify the psychosocial hazards nurses face daily — and are shaping the union’s ongoing advocacy for safer, healthier workplaces. 

Learn more about the campaign and contact your regional OHS or mental health rep to find out how you can help promote workplace psychological health and safety.