Peer Support

HF Human Factor

With our peer support program, operators meet the requirements for pilot support programs as specified in CAT.GEN.MPA.215 of the European Air Operations Regulation (EU) No. 965/2012.

What is
Peer Support & CISM

Stressful events, acute crises, and high operational pressure are a reality in many workplaces. Professional peer support systems create reliable support structures that empower employees and stabilize organizations in the long term.

HF Human Factor GmbH develops, implements, and operates peer support programs for complex and safety-critical organizations—programs that are practical, confidential, and tailored to operational realities.

What exactly does “
” Peer Support
do?

  • Early Support Following Critical Events

  • Confidential one-on-one and team discussions

  • Guidance & Support in Stressful Situations

  • Referral to additional professional support services as needed

Support in a wide variety of areas

Professional peer support systems encompass a variety of support areas, depending on the organization, workplace realities, and needs.
These include, among others:

  • CISM (Critical Incident Stress Management)

  • Support During Stressful Periods in Life and Work (Well-Being

  • Support for Dealing with Addictions and Problematic Substance Use

HF Human Factor

Peer-
-Support

Peer support is a professional support service in which specially trained colleagues (peers) assist other employees who are facing stressful situations—confidentially, on an equal footing, and with a deep understanding of the specific realities of their work.
The basic idea is that people with similar experiences can provide each other with particularly effective support. That is why our peers come from the same professional fields as those affected—whether from the cockpit, the cabin, engineering, healthcare, or other safety-critical work areas.
Early support helps put stress into perspective, provides guidance, and helps stabilize employees in challenging situations. At the same time, it creates reliable structures that strengthen teams and provide long-term relief for organizations.

Professional Peer Support Systems
Professional peer support programs consist of much more than just individual conversations. Clear processes, reliable structures, and long-term organizational integration are crucial.
Our services include, among other things:

  • Development of Customized Peer Support Programs

  • Selection and Qualification of Peers

  • Implementation and Operational Support

  • Activation and Escalation Processes

  • Quality Assurance and Supervision

  • Links to Psychosocial Professionals

  • Further Development of Existing Systems

From the initial concept to long-term development, we support organizations in establishing sustainable support structures.

CISM

Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) is a structured process designed to provide support following critical or traumatic events. As part of professional peer support programs, CISM helps address acute stress reactions early on, stabilize employees, reduce the long-term effects of stress, and lower the risk of long-term consequences such as post-traumatic stress disorder.
Trained colleagues and mental health professionals work closely together to provide those affected with rapid, professional, and practical support.
HF Human Factor GmbH operates in accordance with the standards of the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation (ICISF). Our trainers are appropriately trained and accredited. The ICISF is recognized worldwide as the leading organization for education, training, and consulting in the field of comprehensive crisis intervention and psychosocial support in stressful operational and work environments.

CISM's Objectives:

  • Normalizing Reactions to the Experience

  • Relief and Guidance During the Acute Phase

  • Promoting Self-Efficacy and Stabilization

  • Referral to psychosocial professionals as needed

HF Human Factor

Well-
being

“Well-being” describes a person’s mental, physical, and social well-being—both in their professional and personal lives. In a work context, the main question is: How can one remain healthy, productive, and emotionally stable even under high pressure? At the same time, personal issues can also play a role and affect one’s professional well-being.

At HF Human Factor GmbH, we view well-being as a key resource in safety-critical work environments. After all, resilience, the ability to concentrate, and the capacity for self-regulation do not develop by chance—they require space, reflection, and targeted support.

Substance-
-Abuse

Cases of alcohol or drug use in the workplace require special attention, as they not only affect individual health but can also directly impact safety in the workplace. HF Human Factor GmbH supports organizations in dealing with such situations by providing confidential, structured support services.

Our Focus: We focus on providing sensitive and structured support to affected employees through specially trained peers and mental health professionals. Our primary emphasis is on support and guidance—with the goal of helping those affected regain stability and constructively supporting their return to the workplace.

Support is generally provided—subject to the individual’s consent—in close coordination with the employer and external specialized agencies. This coordinated collaboration enables tailored support and a transparent approach—in the best interests of all parties involved.

Our program is not a therapeutic program, but rather a field-tested component of psychosocial support systems. It aims to provide guidance in sensitive situations and to work with those involved to develop sustainable solutions.

Our Approach

Our approach combines prevention, early intervention, and the long-term development of existing structures. 

This leads to professional support services that empower employees, foster a culture of safety, and stabilize organizations in the long term.

Would you like some help?

Our peer support team is available around the clock.

HF Human Factor

Contact Us

Contact us —
We'd be happy to advise you.

HF Human Factor