Workplace Suicide Prevention Series

A student approached me at a course I was teaching and asked me to review an investigation privately. After class, he pulled up the SnapCharT® in his software and walked me through the timeline. Since it is confidential, I won’t share any information about the tragic incident. However, as we reviewed the evidence collected, we both felt like it pointed to a suicide. The student (a safety professional) who was doing the investigation was distraught over it, and the conversation burned into my memory.

So, over the next three weeks, I will be posting the following topics on Fridays in a 3-part series.

• Creating a Psychologically Safe Work Environment
• Identifying and Assisting Workers Who May Be at Risk
• Investigating and Responding to a Possible Suicide at a Worksite

It is a myth that suicide only affects people with an existing mental health condition.

Recognizing that a worker is in need is important, but it is not enough. Next week, we will talk about prevention strategies. Research studies indicate creating a respectful and inclusive work environment is important to prevent unnecessary deaths.

Check back here next Friday, July 1, for Part 1: “Creating a Psychologically Safe Work Environment.” Or subscribe to the TapRooT® Friends & Experts eNewsletter below to have it delivered to your inbox. We distribute the eNewsletter once a week, on Tuesdays.