In early May 2017, the Christchurch Press posted this article: Lyttelton Port worker who saw colleague die wins job back, $20k compo In this blog we’ll have a look at what happened, what is PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) and how you can support your workers through a catastrophic event.
What Happened?
- In 2008, Chris Arthurs, a cargo handler at Lyttleton Port Company (LPC), watched his work colleague Martin Sincock die instantly when a mooring rope from a coal ship snapped.
- In 2014, he took over a year of medical leave after he witnessed his close friend and workmate, Bradley Fletcher die when he was crushed by a toppled scissor lift (elevated work platform).
- After Fletcher died, Arthurs provided LPC with a medical certificate, which noted that his PTSD affected both his personal and work life. He sought paid sick leave and asked for funding for counselling and took over a year of medical leave.
- In 2016, LPC dismissed Arthurs because of his ongoing medical incapacity. This decision was found unjustified by the ERA.
- The court considered the emotional toll of the dismissal on Arthurs and found “the delay in his return to the workplace has largely been outside of his control”. LPC was ordered to reinstate Arthur’s and pay $20,000 in compensation for “the lost not only of his work but his dignity”.
What is PTSD?
I need to make it very clear that I am not a psychologist, and if you suspect someone is suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, you need to seek professional medical advice.
A basic definition according to the NZ Mental Health Foundation is:
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychological reaction to experiencing or witnessing a significantly stressful, traumatic or shocking event.
This might be a car crash, a rape or other sexual abuse, an earthquake, other natural disaster, or an attack.
How does PTSD Affect People?
- Living through PTSD can be an overwhelming, frightening, isolating and debilitating experience.
- People with PTSD may feel intense fear. They may feel that their world has fallen apart, that everything is black and that nothing makes sense.
- They can often lose hope or the belief that they can recover and lead a worthwhile life.
- PTSD can affect people of any age, gender or culture.
What to look for?
The exact symptoms can vary from person to person.
- Constantly watchful or jumpy
- Sleep is often disturbed
- Irritable and angry
- Lack of emotions, even when around loved ones
- Loss of joy
- Memory, concentration and decision-making may be affected
- Flashbacks to the event
- Depression and suicidal thoughts
- Survivors guilt
- Use of drugs or alcohol to numb emotions
How does a worker get help for PTSD
Initially, Victim Support or your preferred Employee Assistant Programme provider will be able to give the worker affected advice.
With timely intervention, people suffering from PTSD can move on and lead. It is important to seek medical advice as there is a range of medication, counselling and complementary therapies that can assist with recovery. A medical practitioner will be able to help assess the worker and develop their recovery plan.
How can Employers Assist in their worker’s recovery?
- Space: Give the person time and space to be alone if needed
- Support: Try to make sure they get the help they need
- Encouragement: As time goes by, encourage them to get back into life again, but never force them
- Learn about PTSD: Learn what you can about PTSD, its treatment and what you can do to assist recovery.
- No Blame: Do not blame the person for having PTSD. Understand the symptoms for what they are rather than taking them personally or seeing the person as being difficult.
- Recognise Stress: Help the person to recognise stress and find ways of coping with it. This may include helping to solve problems that are worrying them.
- Look after yourself: Find ways of getting time out for you and feeling okay about this. It is critical to do what is needed to maintain your own well-being.
Finally, remember that as an employer / PCBU you are not expected to be a trained psychologist or counsellor. However, taking the time to ask what is PTSD and how can I support my workers if they are suffering it will go a long way in helping you and your team get through a catastrophic event.
As always, let me know if you have any questions or anything to add.
Have a safe and productive week,
SB a.k.a. Safety Girl