Workplace incident - PTSD

[Skellem]

Hi,

I'm struggling to deal with a workplace incident that has through a mechanical failure of High Voltage equipment resulted in an explosion.

There has been two intensive investigations and although the company acknowledges that it was caused by equipment failure they have taken a course to persecute me with intent to sack me. I forgot to disclose an insignificant action (that had no influence in the cause of failure) that occurred and they are alleging that I am being dishonest and deceptive.

I have only recently recalled the forgotten action and have written a statement however I believe that management are looking for someone to blame.

I am exhausted and traumatised by the incident and the intensity of the investigations and feel helpless and out of control to do anything about it. I am not sleeping properly, often having flashbacks of the explosion. I feel disrespected that my honesty and integrity is at question. My career is in jeopardy because if I get the sack and have these false allegations against me then I won't be able to find employment.

I have sought counsel from psychologist and legal support, but feel the company just want me gone. The company has lined up a final meeting to hear my response to the allegations but I don't believe they intend to listen.

I'm broken. 😞

[Lillipilli80]

Hi Skellem,

Thank you for sharing your troubling situation and I'm sorry to hear it. It seems like a very stressful scenario and its understandable you feel disrespected and broken. The loss of a job and employment coupled with this false allegation is undoubtedly a very difficult time.

It sounds like you feel like you are being blamed for being involved in the explosion even though it wasn't the case and that there is nothing you can do to change the companies mind. Its good that you are seeking legal and psychological support, and sharing here as well. The more support you have right now, the better able you will be able to handle the situation no matter the outcome. Reaching out here is a brave step and shows resilience and adaptability.

Are there any work colleagues who you think you could talk to about it? Someone not involved in the explosion but who knows the company and understands their motives.

How far away is the final hearing with the company? If you feel comfortable to do so check back in on the forum and let us know how things go.

[Skellem]

Hi, Lillipilli,

The meeting for response to these allegations is yet to be rescheduled so I anticipate a few weeks from now.

I have been isolated by direction in the letter of allegations. I am not permitted to talk to workmates, which isolates me because most of my friends and people I could talk to are workmates.

I am trying to cope as best I can each day by utilising the time to compile documentation...eg writing a letter of response, compiling a timeline, contact legal and psychological help etc.

I'm depressed and anxious, angry, frustrated, and hurt and exhausted by all of this.

thanks for taking the time out of your day to respond.

Broken

[leesy_lou]

Hi Skellem,

Damn this sounds like a defeating and heartbreaking situation to be in. It sounds like the whole incident, with your work questioning your intentions and honestly has left you feeling a whole well of emotions and shaken your sense of self to the core. Sometimes, even when we have done the right thing and our intentions are honest and pure, when others question our motives personality or worse our sense of integrity it can leave us questioning ourself, and who we are as a person. It's crippling. How does that sit with you?

I'm so glad, that despite these feelings you have pushed through and sought help from multiple sources, thats a testament to your character in itself.

hoping things will settle down soon for you ❤️

[Lillipilli80]

Hi Skellum,

Thanks for responding back to me and I must apologise that I have not been back on the forum earlier to respond back to you as I am usually on once a week.

Although you are not able to speak to colleagues about this are there other friends in your life you could reach out to? I'm concerned about you, you are carrying this heavy weight and support from friends and people who care about you and know your integrity might help.

It's good that you are using this time effectively to work through what needs to get done for your case. Apart from getting this work done are you finding time to switch off from it? I find when I'm consumed by an issue thats causing me a lot of stress I find a distraction like exercise can help to move that stress through. What do you use for relaxation or switching off?

What you are feeling is absolutely understandable in this situation. It's an overwhelming position you are in. I would like to know how we can better support you during this time. Please keep in contact and let us know.

Here for you Broken.