Minister for Infrastructure, Planning and Employment, Jonathan Attard, together with the Chief Executive Officer of the Occupational Health and Safety Authority (OHSA), Josianne Cutajar, launched the national campaign 'Spalla Għalik fuq ix-Xogħol'.
The campaign aims to raise awareness of the importance of mental health in the workplace, address psychosocial risks, and promote a culture of support, respect and inclusion among workers, a government statement said Saturday.
As part of the launch, they visited Malta International Airport (MIA), an exemplary workplace where they observed first-hand operational activities and measures implemented to strengthen occupational health and safety, particularly regarding mental health.
The campaign builds on the Authority's ongoing efforts to strengthen prevention and ensure that mental health is given the same importance as physical health.
Minister Attard said that "The Malta International Airport is an example of good practice in occupational health and safety, including in the area of mental health. We therefore felt that this was the right place to launch a nationwide campaign focused on mental health. MIA is a tangible reflection of the progress our country has made through new legislative reforms that recognise mental well-being alongside physical health."
Through the campaign, the Authority is highlighting the need to identify, assess and address the root causes of psychosocial risks, including excessive workloads, long working hours, poor communication, bullying and harassment.
As part of this commitment, the OHSA established a Psychology Unit in October 2025 to strengthen its capacity in the field of psychosocial risks. The unit contributes to research and policy development and supports technical officers during inspections relating to these risks. When it identifies breaches of legal obligations, the Authority may take the enforcement action provided for by law.
The OHSA is also investing in training and education. In collaboration with the Richmond Foundation, it is offering two free courses: Mental Health First Aid in the Workplace and the Prevention of Psychosocial Risks. These courses are designed to help employers, managers, workers and human resources professionals recognise signs of distress, prevent risks and guide individuals towards the professional help they need.
Chief Executive Officer Dr Josianne Cutajar stated: "Through the "Spalla Għalik fuq ix-Xogħol" campaign, the OHSA is reinforcing the message that every worker matters, and that a safe workplace must protect not only physical health, but also the mental health, well-being and dignity of every individual."
The national campaign complements the European campaign 'Together for Mental Health in the Workplace', which the OHSA will lead at the national level.
Through this initiative, the OHSA is calling on employers to take concrete action to protect workers' well-being; on workers and their representatives to participate and make their voices heard; and on everyone to break down stigma and feel able to speak up or seek help.
Minister Attard and Chief Executive Officer Dr Cutajar were accompanied by MIA Chief Executive Officer Mr Alan Borg. Also present during the visit were OHSA Chairman Pierre Fava, other OHSA representatives, and MIA representatives.