Ask Ron Besuijen - What impact does PTSD have on manufacturing operations?

Ron's Response:

While PTSD is often linked to severe injuries or loss of life, I will address both PTSD and PTS, focusing on the often overlooked mental health challenges that can arise from less severe but still traumatic events. I am not a mental health professional, but I will offer insights based on my experience and provide resources for those seeking further support.

Post-Traumatic Stress (PTS) refers to the emotional and psychological response to a traumatic event that doesn't necessarily meet the full diagnostic criteria for PTSD. While PTSD is a mental health disorder that requires a clinical diagnosis, PTS can occur in anyone who experiences significant stress in response to traumatic situations, even if those symptoms do not develop into a full-blown disorder.

According to the National Institute of Health, PTSD symptoms typically begin within three months of a traumatic event, although they can emerge later. To meet the criteria for PTSD, symptoms must last for over a month and significantly impact daily life, such as relationships or work.

In our industry, PTS can result from large process upsets—situations that overwhelm operators with alarms, potential leaks, or flaring. These incidents, which may involve millions of dollars in lost production and create stressful, high-pressure environments, often leave operators feeling helpless and anxious. The emotional toll of these events can linger for months, and if not addressed, it can escalate into a more serious mental health issue.

I experienced this type of stress firsthand about ten years into my career. Despite knowing the manuals and procedures better than most, I was unprepared for the control system failure I faced, where about 150 control valves failed. The situation could have been mitigated with a quicker response, but in the end, the plant was safely shut down with only a minor leak. Although the incident resulted in several million dollars in losses, the emotional and mental toll could have been managed better.

This series will explore the emotional and psychological impacts of such events, highlighting how PTS is often overlooked in our industry. By acknowledging the mental health effects of these experiences, we can begin to better address and support those impacted, fostering a healthier and more resilient workforce.

In the following ProseraPods I will cover,

1. How to Recognize Symptoms of PTS?
2. How PTS affects work relationships & Safety in the workplace?
3. The Role of Leadership in Trauma Recovery: How their response can either help or hinder?
4. What support systems are available for employees affected by PTS?
5. How to Prepare for Trauma in the Workplace: Building Awareness and Readiness?
6. What are the Legal & Ethical considerations in trauma response?
7. How can Training Programs mitigate the impact of PTS?
8. What preventative measures can be taken and the role of post-action reviews in trauma recovery?
9. Where to Find Resources and Support for Trauma in the Workplace?