World’s First Workplace Standard on Suicide Awareness Published By BSI

The British Standards Institution (BSI) has launched the world’s first dedicated standard on suicide awareness in the workplace, providing organisations with practical, evidence-based guidance on prevention, intervention and post-incident support.

A Milestone for Workplace Wellbeing

Anne Hayes, Director of Sectors and Standards Development at BSI, described the publication as a landmark moment for workplace mental health:

“The publication of the world’s first standard on suicide and the workplace represents a significant milestone in our approach to supporting mental health and wellbeing at work. Until now, suicide has been an often-overlooked issue within organisations, leading to missed opportunities for prevention and support.

“This standard provides a much-needed framework to empower employers and leaders to take meaningful action and build safe, compassionate workplaces where people feel supported and valued.”

She added that by bringing together expert insight, lived experience and practical guidance, BSI hopes the standard will encourage open conversations, reduce stigma and ultimately help save lives across all sectors.

The Standard

Titled Suicide and the workplace – Intervention, prevention and support for people affected by suicide – Guide (BS 30480), the new standard responds to stark evidence on the scale of suicide risk. Research shows that one in four adults has contemplated suicide, while one in 13 has attempted it. Against this backdrop, BS 30480 aims to help employers recognise risk earlier, respond appropriately, and support individuals and teams affected by suicide or suicidal thoughts.

The standard is free to download and applies to organisations of all sizes and sectors, including public bodies, charities, social enterprises and private businesses. It has been informed by data, academic research and lived experience, bringing together insight from government, specialist charities, advocacy groups and industry experts.

BSI highlights that for every suicide death, at least 135 people are affected directly or indirectly, including colleagues, clients and wider communities. As a result, almost every workplace will experience the impact of suicide in some form—whether through the loss of a colleague, supporting someone in crisis, or managing the emotional and operational consequences that follow. Many organisations struggle to respond openly and effectively in such circumstances, and BS 30480 has been developed to address this gap.

Practical Guidance for Prevention and Response

The standard provides comprehensive guidance on both preventing suicide risk and responding when concerns arise. It sets out how organisations can develop clear, effective policies and procedures, alongside practical advice on recognising warning signs and responding to suicidal thoughts or behaviours in a safe, supportive way.

BS 30480 includes guidance on how to ask about suicide directly and sensitively, challenging the common fear that such conversations may cause harm. It also explains how to develop individual safety plans tailored to people at risk, ensuring responses are person-centred and proportionate.

In addition, the standard offers advice on communicating sensitively with those affected by suicide, including colleagues, families and external stakeholders, and on handling media enquiries appropriately following a suicide-related incident.

Supporting managers, HR and leaders

Recognising the critical role of leadership and line management, BS 30480 advises organisations on when to seek specialist support and how to commission appropriate suicide prevention training. Dedicated toolkits for HR professionals and line managers are included to help ensure a consistent, informed and confident approach across all levels of an organisation.

While the standard does not cover statutory safeguarding duties or clinical treatment options, it signposts users to relevant specialist services and sources of expertise, helping organisations understand where their responsibilities lie and when external support is needed.

Industry and Charity Response

The standard has been welcomed by mental health organisations. Chris Clarke, Director of Business and Operational Development at Chasing the Stigma, said the guidance comes at a critical time.

“With UK suicide rates at their highest since 1999, the impact on families, communities and workplaces is profound. Every organisation has a responsibility to foster environments where people feel safe, supported and able to seek help without fear or stigma.

“BS 30480 offers practical guidance that is relevant across all industries. This isn’t just a framework; it’s a call to action. We believe this standard will empower workplaces to become part of the solution, ensuring support is not only available but actively encouraged.”

BSI says BS 30480 will be particularly relevant to managers, HR professionals, health and safety and occupational health teams, as well as those responsible for wellbeing, diversity and inclusion, and learning and development. By equipping organisations with clearer guidance and greater confidence, the standard aims to make suicide prevention a core part of workplace health and safety practice.