Originally released in February 2021, the research report was recently re-released. Numerous revisions were made to strengthen the report.
The original survey of 620 first responders was used to inform where the tool was strong and where improvements could be made to some questions and categorization – these insights have been incorporated into the updated tool.
Specifically, through further statistical analyses, four, rather than three, factors were identified that could outline occupational stress injury (OSI) risk. Employee experiences were split into supportive leadership and supportive environment.
Finally, from an initial list of 40 questions, the final scale was narrowed down to 26. This scale provides a resiliency score that could be divided into three different vulnerability profiles: Thriving, Concern, and Challenge.
Key Findings
The revised research report presents the deployment of the OSIR tool and how first responders fared at a singular point in time.
When 620 workers in Canada—primarily first responders— used Public Services Health and Safety Association’s Occupational Stress Injury Resiliency (OSIR) tool, it underscored important outcomes for mental health, physical health, and workplace behaviours (e.g., absenteeism). Those who reported higher OSIR scores felt more motivated and had stronger mental and physical health than those with lower scores. First responders who reported lower OSIR scores were more likely to be absent from work, show up to work unwell, and cope with substances than those with higher scores.
Connections were uncovered between the OSIR scores and workplace outcomes such as short-term disability time off and workers’ compensation claims.
The research identified support programs, supportive leadership, supportive environments, and resiliency behaviours across OSIR subscales as important for prevention.
Preliminary findings highlight the potential value of the OSIR tool for employers to understand risks for occupational stress injuries and identify preventative approaches that can be used to support positive mental health outcomes.
Read the full report: Assessing the Risk: The Occupational Stress Injury Resiliency Tool
For more information on this research or to participate in upcoming workplace pilots, submit your contact information here.
