Report: Trauma Survivors Face Higher Workplace Risks Without Support
Translated & summarized from Davar by baba
A new study by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health found that employees affected by the "Swords of Iron" war face higher risks of injury and unsafe behavior at work. The research surveyed 572 affected workers and found they reported more burnout and were absent for longer periods. The report recommends a national policy for post-trauma return-to-work, urging employers to foster supportive environments and train managers in trauma-informed leadership.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- War-affected employees face higher risks of injury and unsafe behavior at work, a new study found.
- 33.9% of war-impacted workers in high-risk jobs reported injuries, compared to 11.5% of others.
- Nearly half of affected workers admitted to unsafe behavior, versus 30.4% of unaffected employees.
- War-affected employees reported higher burnout and were absent for an average of 15 weeks.
- The study recommends a national policy for post-trauma return-to-work support.
- Researchers urge employers to create psychological safety and train managers in trauma-informed leadership.
A new study by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health reveals that employees personally affected by the "Swords of Iron" war are at a significantly higher risk of impaired functioning and safety in the workplace. The research, which surveyed 572 war-affected employees and 139 control subjects, found that 33.9% of those impacted by the war and working in high-risk professions reported work-related injuries requiring absence, compared to only 11.5% of unaffected employees. Furthermore, nearly half (47.8%) of war-affected workers admitted to engaging in unsafe behavior at work, versus 30.4% in the control group.
The report highlights that emotional and cognitive burdens, distractions, and reduced alertness stemming from traumatic experiences can become safety hazards. War-affected employees also reported higher levels of burnout, sleep disturbances, negative emotions, and decreased work performance. On average, these employees were absent from work for about 15 weeks, compared to three weeks for those unaffected.
Despite these challenges, the study indicates a gap between employees' needs and the support they received. While many sought patience, understanding, flexible hours, remote work options, and job security, only a minority reported receiving formal support like employer-funded therapy or support groups. Social support from colleagues and direct managers were the most common forms of assistance.
Researchers recommend the development of a national policy and a structured model for returning to work after traumatic events. They urge employers to create "psychological safety" environments, offer flexible adjustment packages, appoint dedicated liaisons, and train managers in trauma-informed leadership. The report also suggests integrating burnout and sleep quality into workplace risk assessments and updating safety regulations to include emotional and social factors.
Moshe Ba'gad, acting director general of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, stated that returning to work after trauma requires more than a technical process, emphasizing the need for managerial professionalism, supportive organizational culture, and practical tools for maintaining safety and health. He expressed hope that the report will serve as a practical tool for decision-makers to ensure safe, gradual, respectful, and adapted returns to work during emergencies.