Meet Sudbury INO’s Critical Incident Stress Management Team
Sudbury Integrated Nickel Operations is fortunate to have a team that is trained to respond in the aftermath of serious or potentially fatal industrial or non-industrial incidents or accidents. This World Mental Health Day, we’re shining the spotlight on this important and dedicated team.
"The importance of this Team to me is the personal connection I can provide to my co-workers and their families during times of crisis."
Eddie Brush - First Aid Security Attendant
Given their focus on psychological issues, the Critical Incident Stress Management Team (“CISM” Team) differs from Mine Rescue or other rescue teams. The Team’s objective is to mitigate the mental health impacts that may occur following life-changing events.
“Our goal is to lessen the impact of the event by allowing our colleagues to feel safe in sharing their emotions in hopes that this will start the healing process. We also provide guidance if a higher level of help is required.” – Eric Perreault, Safety and Training Supervisor
Members of the CISM Team lead those involved or affected by traumatic events through guided debriefing sessions. These sessions are designed to diffuse situations and help normalise reactions and feelings to traumatic events. The recovery process begins when people have a safe place to connect, share stories, ask questions, and grieve.
“Being part of the CISM Team is important to me because together we are a group of emotional caregivers for our employees and their families.” – Jason Bridge, First-Aid Security Attendant
“Knowing your employer cares about you and the wellbeing of your family helps in processing emotions and potentially prevents any psychological trauma following a traumatic event.” – Shirley Racine, Occupational Health Nurse
Following a traumatic event, Sudbury INO’s Employee and Family Assistance Program (“EFAP”) is made available to all employees and eligible dependents and the CISM Team is mobilised to facilitate professional, on-going support by certified mental health professionals. The goal is to assist employees in returning to their normal personal and professional routines and to reduce the risk of long-term health impacts such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
“The Team helps to reduce the stigma associated with seeking help for mental health issues, promoting a culture of openness and support within the workplace.” – Sophie Blay, Sustainable Development Lead
In the past, the CISM Team primarily consisted of Occupational Health Nurses and trained paramedics. However, it was recognised that employees may better relate to members of their crew or peer group in times of crisis. As such, the Team recently welcomed a Millwright, Smelter Operator, Safety Leads and oversight from Human Resources.
“I am proud to be a member of the CISM Team because we have received training to best support our Glencore colleagues; their families and coworkers during a traumatic event. The work that we do fosters resiliency by equipping our peers with the proper support for recovery. In knowing that I am able to help others heal from a terrible experience is rewarding. Everyone on the Team believes that our colleagues’ mental health is extremely important.”
Shelley Deeth - Occupational Health Nurse
Twenty six members of Glencore Sudbury INO’s Critical Incident Stress Management Team and Employee & Family Assistance Programme Resource Members attended the Cultural Awareness Training in December 2022, hosted by Wahnapitae First Nation, Ontario, Canada.
Sudbury’s Critical Incident Stress Management Team members:
- Christine McGarry, Manager Human Resources and Indigenous Affairs
- Shirley Racine, Occupational Health Nurse
- Shelley Deeth, Occupational Health Nurse
- Jason Bridge, First-Aid Security Attendant
- Eddie Brush, First-Aid Security Attendant
- Sophie Blay, Sustainable Development Process Owner
- Eric Perreault, Safety and Training Supervisor
- Luc Boileau, Industrial Mechanic – Millwright
- Andrew Gardner, Converter Skimmer
Find out more about World Mental Health Day and discover our related stories.