Fire and emergency service roles inherently involve exposure to potentially traumatic events (PTEs), which can be cumulative and impact mental health and wellbeing. While some agencies have systems for recording incidents, approaches vary widely and evidence on best practice is scarce.
This research reviewed international literature, consulted with the sector on current practices and engaged expert input to develop a good practice principles framework for tracking PTE exposure and organisational responses.
The research team produced a Good practice principles guide, endorsed by AFAC, which outlines the rationale and descriptions of each principle, with examples from current practice. Agencies can use the Guide to review existing systems and inform future designs to ensure they are fit-for-purpose and aligned with good practice.
The Final report is also available for download. It details the aims, approach and findings from Stage 1 of the research.
Together, these principles provide a shared framework to help agencies design, implement and review tracking systems that support psychosocial risk management initiatives.
The team are currently in Stage 2 of the project, involving the development of implementation tools and resources to support alignment with the principles and continuous improvement.
