WA FIFO miners are urged to reach for essential oils and stress balls in lieu of fries and chocolate when redesigned vending machines are rolled out in locations across the state.
The initiative aims to establish “wellness stations” in mining camps around the clock to help those seeking support in workplaces notorious for their mental health stigma.
Perth’s Happiness Co – the company behind the roll-out – says the vending machines are being filled with a variety of self-help items.
Staff can take an essential oil called “Man Enough” which “relieves negative thoughts while relieving stressed nerves and getting you ready to relax”.
Stress balls, a sleep spray, and mental health conversation cards with questions for colleagues such as: B. “What do you think happens after death?” “Any temperament control strategies?”. and “Worst job you’ve ever had to do?” will also be available.
It comes after the great miner BHP recently set a limit of four drinks for FIFO employees as well as an alcohol cut-off after 9:30 p.m.
Camera iconMonique Costantino from Monson Agencies, Julian Pace, founder of Happiness and Co, and Monique McCarthy from Happiness and Co with the new wellness machine. Photo credit: Kelsey Reid/.The Western Australian
The machines, which are wholly company-funded and free for workers, come from the wellness station’s founder, Monique McCarthy, who believes it can play an important role alongside other health programs.
“When you look at mental health and wellbeing statistics, they’re alarming, especially in mining. We are currently in discussions with five major mining companies. “
“This is never intended to replace mental health initiatives.” Mrs. McCarthy said. “This is a complementary product that works alongside what’s already there and gives people access to things in real time.”
The first location where the machines will be used is the Fremantle headquarters of one of Australia’s largest shipping services – Monson Agencies.
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