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FREMAP has a Psychosocial Intervention Protocol to respond to the needs of workers, families and employers in complex situations arising from major accidents, offering support and assistance to our members in times of particular vulnerability.

The following scenarios are defined as a “major accident”:

  • When a shocking accident occurs and affects a group (workers, employers, etc.)
  • When multiple injuries occur in the accident.
  • In cases where there are fatalities.
  • At the request of the company/FREMAP due to the accident.

  • Insured workers who have suffered an occupational accident or who have witnessed a serious accident in their workplace.
  • Immediate family members of the insured workers.
  • Business owners, HR Management, Prevention Area.

When is intervention necessary?

In the cases previously categorized as “major accident”.

1

To intervene psychosocially in the first phase of the accident

2

To alleviate collective stress after the accident

3

Activate the necessary internal or external resources

This is the first care given to a person at the time of the event or in the days immediately following.

Psychosocial intervention can be carried out by a social worker and/or a psychologist, since it is fundamentally about providing support.

It entails the following actions:

  • To address the needs of the affected people.
  • Welcoming the victims.
  • Provide support and guidance while conveying security.
  • Identify vulnerable situations.
  • To help express emotions and feelings in situations of strong impact.
  • Strengthen contact with the socio-family network.
  • Encourage self-help.
  • Promote autonomy (help with decision-making).
  • Coordination between the different operational groups.

The chaotic situation that arises from an event of this nature can trigger imbalances in information, organization, referral, etc.

It entails the following actions:

  • Organize and coordinate the actions and information obtained with all parties involved during the chaos produced in the first moments of the accident.
  • To accompany those affected during the acute phase, conveying serenity and responding to their information needs.

Activation of internal resources:

  • Other FREMAP professionals (directors, doctors, claims handlers/managers, prevention technicians, psychologists, etc.)
  • Special Benefits Commission

Activation of external resources:

  • Various resources such as: Associations, translators, interpreters, embassies, funeral homes, etc.
  • Community Social Services.
  • Company's own resources.

Depending on the magnitude of the accident, the staff will be sized according to the intervention time and the number of those affected.

The request to activate the action protocol will be made by the area social worker, who will communicate the circumstances and scope of the event to the Area Management, who will then decide whether or not to activate it. 

Three levels of intervention are established: 

  • Level 1. Exclusive intervention with company personnel for post-traumatic stress.
  • Level 2. Intervention in the event of a multiple accident in which several deaths or injuries occur.
  • Level 3. Intervention in a major emergency or disaster with multiple victims.

Level 1. Exclusive intervention with company staff for post-traumatic stress

Following a serious and shocking accident in a company, collective stress can develop, which can destabilize the emotional balance of the individual. 

Excessive emotional tension occurs, producing

physiological, cognitive, and behavioral alterations. 

Post-traumatic stress disorder is an anxiety disorder that can appear after an event that is experienced with great intensity, terror, and a feeling of helplessness.

The objective of this intervention will be:

  • To provide support and assistance to those affected.
  • Address any needs that may arise (refer to medical services, psychologists, etc.).
  • To welcome the victims and other affected workers.
  • Enhance social contact.

It is considered that in order to carry out an adequate group dynamic, the number of participants should be between 8 and 15 people.

If the number is lower than this, it would be possible to attend to the company's employee individually.

Level 2. Intervention in the event of an accident involving multiple deaths or injured parties

It is considered that at level 2 the number of victims (injured and/or deceased workers) will be between 4 and 10. 

When an accident occurs involving several people and requiring the intervention of professionals from the Mutual Insurance Company, and the company also needs to provide an immediate response, psychosocial intervention is necessary to expedite both the bureaucratic process and to provide direct and personalized attention to the worker and their family.

The objective of this intervention would be:

  • To provide support and assistance to those affected, conveying security in times of uncertainty.
  • Attend to any personal needs that may arise.
  • To welcome the victims and their families.
  • Report the accident and assist in managing the necessary procedures.
  • Activate internal and external resources.
  • Refer to other entities external to the mutual insurance company (Social Services, Embassies, Consulates, Associations…)

Level 3. Intervention in a major emergency or catastrophe with multiple victims

Level 3 intervention is considered to be that which is activated in the face of a major emergency or catastrophe in which the number of people affected is high (greater than 10), or when the magnitude of the event generates a high organizational, social and emotional impact, transcending the usual scope of intervention.

These types of situations include, among others, explosions, chemical leaks, major workplace accidents, shipwrecks, natural disasters or attacks, characterized by the complexity of the response and the need for intensive multidisciplinary coordination.

Characteristics of the intervention

  • High number of victims and/or indirectly affected (families, colleagues, work environment).
  • High emotional charge and media exposure.
  • Prolonged intervention over time, with different phases (immediate, follow-up and closure).
  • Multiple intervening agents (internal and external).
  • Need for a specific organizational structure (extended team or emergency standby).

Purpose of the intervention

To provide a comprehensive, organized and coordinated response that guarantees psychosocial care to all affected individuals, facilitating crisis management and contributing to emotional and social recovery after the impact of the event.

Objectives of the intervention

  • To provide support and assistance to the affected individuals.
  • To address any needs that may arise immediately.
  • To welcome the victims, their families and other involved groups.
  • Strengthen social contact and the support network.
  • To detect early on possible situations of psychological risk that require referral.
  • Coordinate actions with the different systems involved.
  • Activate internal and external resources necessary for comprehensive care.