Table 1.

The 13 workplace factors included in Canada’s National Standard for Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace

Workplace factor	Definition
Organizational culture	The work environment is characterized by trust, honesty and fairness.
Psychological and social support	Co-workers and supervisors are supportive of employees’ psychological and mental health concerns, and respond appropriately as needed. Employees perceive and are aware of organizational support.
Clear leadership and expectations	There is effective leadership and support that helps employees know what they need to do, how their work contributes to the organization and whether there are potential changes.
Civility and respect	Employees are respectful and considerate in their interactions with one another, as well as with customers, clients and the public.
Psychological demands	There is a good fit between employees’ interpersonal and emotional competencies, and the requirements of the position they hold.
Growth and development	Employees receive encouragement and support in the development of their interpersonal, emotional and job skills.
Recognition and reward	There is appropriate acknowledgement and appreciation of employees’ efforts in a fair and timely manner.
Involvement and influence	Employees are included in discussions about how their work is done and how important decisions are made.
Workload management	Tasks and responsibilities can be accomplished successfully within the time available.
Engagement	Employees enjoy and feel connected to their work and feel motivated to do their job well.
Balance	There is recognition of the need for balance between the demands of work, family and personal life.
Psychological protection	Employee psychological safety is ensured.
Protection of physical safety	Management takes appropriate action to protect the physical safety of employees.