Translating into practice the recommendations of a safety climate theory based evaluation of services provided by Disability Support Workers

Abstract

Disability support workers (DSWs) psychosocial work safety was evaluated using a work safety climate measure that included two theoretical components: perceptions of management and co-worker safety behaviours and attitudes. Based on findings, recommendations were identified to improve DSW safety, with seven recommendations translated into practice. Intervention outcomes varied from organisation-wide to limited worksite implementation. An 18-month postintervention safety climate evaluation with 129 DSWs and 20 interviews showed DSWs were significantly less concerned about psychosocial safety hazards, with no differences for physical safety hazards. DSWs viewed management safety attitudes and behaviours slightly more favourably. Repeated health and well-being measures showed fewer DSWs experiencing burnout, more DSWs with health scores at or above norms and fewer at risk of depression. Post-intervention findings suggest the work safety climate measure with manager and co-worker attitudes components can be used with management efforts to address workers’ safety concerns and positively impact safety perceptions and well-being.