When to give a toolbox talk?

-At a safety briefing

-Department meeting

-Production or planning meeting

-Union meeting

-Training

-Regular communications - newsletters, blog posts, etc.

Why give a toolbox talk?

-To reduce the stigma of mental health conversations

-To let workers know that mental health is important

-Increase safety and improve productivity

-Increase likelihood that employees will speak up

-Communicate commitment

-Increase awareness

Work ecosystems are made up of clients, employers, employees, teams, road crew, performers and audience. Within these ecosystems you find common stressors: Not enough time or resources, dangerous work, disputes, navigating difficult personalities, bullying and perhaps substance abuse.

The first step in creating a toolbox talk is to notice and think. The second step is to identify relevant topics for your team or workplace. Some of those relevant topics are simply talking about mental health, acknowledging stress, letting it be OK not to be OK. The third step is to write your first draft. The fourth step is to consult with others and refine.