Stress in the workplace is becoming a more hotly and regularly talked about subject.
Stress in the workplace is becoming a more hotly and regularly talked about subject.
Some people argue that there is much more stress today in the workplace as a result of the general “pace of life and work” and the demands placed on us all.
Others continue to argue that things are no more stressful today than they were decades back.
Whatever your view, most open minded managers we speak with readily accept that all us workers feel pressure in the workplace and that by it’s very nature, work, has been creating pressure on humans for a very long time.
Whatever your view, what IS un-arguable, is that today we talk far more openly about all manner of issues this one included and so the implications of excessive workplace pressure are coming to the fore. This coupled with the fact that other workplace risks (from injury, death etc) have reduced significantly in recent decades, is bringing an ever increasing amount of attention to bear on issues created by workplace stresses.
The good news is that, as with Occupational Health and Safety, the vast majority of things that lead to workplace stress are actually within the control of managers and company leaders. Good leadership within business will therefore recognize these factors and take action to minimize their impacts.
The following list of factors causing workplace stress, was reported in an article in Human Resources Magazine Issue 127 1st may 2007. www.humanresourcesmagazine.com.au.
Check your place!
Specific work factors
- Excessive workloads.
- Tedious tasks.
- Long hours.
- Poor pay.
- Inadequate rest breaks.
- Unreasonable performance demands.
Physical environment
- Noise.
- Overcrowding.
- Poor air quality.
- Ergonomic problems.
- Health and safety risks.
Organisational practises
- Unclear responsibilities and expectations.
- Conflicting demands.
- Multiple Supervisors.
- Lack of autonomy.
- Inefficient communication patterns/processes.
- Non family friendly.
Workplace change
We all know “change is everywhere” but also keep an eye on it’s impacts.
- Fear of layoff.
- Frequent staff turnover.
- Lack of preparation for technological changes.
- Poor prospects for advancement.
- Tensions that result from increased workplace diversity.
Interpersonal relationships
- Distant and un-communicative supervisors.
- Poor performance from subordinates.
- Office politics.
- Competition and other conflicts between staff.
- Bullying or harassment.
- Excessive time away from families.
Source: www.helpguide.org
Stats and Facts
Disabilities do not hinder work
- Ninety percent of people with disabilities rated average or better, on job performance.
- Research also showed that employing people with disabilities has a distinct positive affect on staff and staff morale and provides evidence of workplace diversity.
- Staff retention rates for people with a disability were 72% higher than for those without a disability (saving millions of $$’s a year in recruitment and training costs).
- A further 98% of staff with a disability rate as high or higher than their co-workers in workplace safety.
- 86% of people with disabilities rates as average or better on attendance.
Source: Disabilities Services Australia