Safe & healthy workplaces : a survey of the types and outcomes of psychologically healthy workplace initiatives being used in Nova Scotia

Abstract

There has been an increased interest by researchers and organizations in developing "psychologically healthy workplaces" (PHWs). This is likely due to an enhanced understanding that in order to remain competitive, organizations must promote the well-being of their employees. The purpose of the present study was to describe the types and usage of PHW practices being used by organizations in Nova Scotia, and to link these practices to various organizational outcomes. A sample of 118 management personnel responded to an online survey about the practices used in their organization. A Principal Components Analysis revealed a 3-factor model of PHWs (i.e., communication/interpersonal treatment, employee control, and health and safety). PHW factors were predictive of financial/operational performance, employee attitudes, and employee withdrawal behaviours; even after controlling for several organizational variables. Moreover, some PHW factors (i.e, communication/interpersonal treatment and employee control) were found to have an indirect effect on financial/operational performance through employee attitudes.