The first British standard dedicated to addressing the risk of suicide and its impact in the workplace has been published.
The standard – BS 30480 Suicide and the Workplace – has been published by the British Standards Institution (BSI).
It aims to provide employers with practical and evidence-based recommendations to help plan for, respond to and support people affected by suicide or those with thoughts of suicide.
Research from the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), published in May, highlighted the state of mental health in the industry.
According to the Understanding Mental Health in the Built Environment report, 28% of respondents working in the industry said they had experienced suicidal thoughts at least once over the past year.
The new standard is free to download and offers guidance for organisations of all sizes and sectors, including the built environment.
‘Much-needed framework’
The guidance outlines how to ask about suicide in a safe, direct way, as well as how to create individual safety plans tailored to those at risk.
In addition, the standard includes dedicated toolkits for human resources and line managers.
Until now, suicide has been an often-overlooked issue within organisations, which could mean missed opportunities for prevention and support
Anne Hayes, director of sectors and standards development at BSI, said: “The publication of the world’s first standard on suicide and the workplace represents a significant milestone in our approach to supporting mental health and wellbeing at work.
“Until now, suicide has been an often-overlooked issue within organisations, which could mean missed opportunities for prevention and support.
“This standard provides a much-needed framework to empower employers and leaders to take meaningful action and help them build safe, compassionate workplaces where people feel supported and valued.
“The standard brings together expert insight, lived experience and practical guidance.
“It is designed to not only raise awareness but also give organisations the tools they need to reduce risk, intervene effectively, and support those affected by suicide, or having thoughts about suicide, with dignity and sensitivity.
“We hope this will encourage open conversations, reduce stigma, and ultimately help to save lives across every sector.”
Collaborative process
While the standard does not cover statutory safeguarding responsibilities or clinical treatment options, it signposts where such expertise can be sought.
Developed through a two-year collaboration between government, specialist charities, advocacy groups, and industry experts, BS 30480 is designed to complement existing research and guidance, consolidating good practice into a single framework.
Commenting on the announcement, Liz Twist, MP for Blaydon and Consett, said: “If we’re serious about changing the number of suicides across our society then it is clear we need a concerted effort, one in which everyone can play their part.
“BSI is stepping up to the plate to help instil a strong standard across businesses to ensure that everyone in work can have access to good quality support.
“Employers have responded positively throughout the process and it’s a significant step forward in ensuring that we reduce the number of suicides overall.”
Mental health support and advice for CIOB members, past members and related family is available through CIOB Assist. CIOB, in partnership with Anxiety UK, also provides wellbeing support.
The Lighthouse Charity offers 24/7 free and confidential support on all aspects of emotional, physical, and financial wellbeing.
24/7 helplines: 0345 605 1956 (UK) 1800 939 122 (ROI)
Text HARDHAT to 85258 (UK) or 50808 (ROI)
Live chat and more information: www.lighthousecharity.org
