The model WHS Regulations define a psychosocial hazard as a hazard that may cause psychological harm (whether or not it may also cause physical harm). They arise from, or relate to:
- the design or management of work
- a work environment
- plant at a workplace, or
- workplace interactions or behaviours.
PCBUs must eliminate or minimise, so far as is reasonably practicable, the psychosocial risks that arise from psychosocial hazards. See PCBU duties for more information on these duties, including the relevant matters which a PCBU must consider when determining control measures to implement.
More information on how to manage psychosocial risks is also available at Managing risks.
PCBUs must also:
- consult workers, and any HSRs, about work health and safety
- consult, cooperate and coordinate with other duty holders.
Workers and other persons at the workplace also have duties, see Worker and other persons duties.
For information on how PCBU's can meet their duties see the model Code of Practice: Managing psychosocial hazards at work.