Psychological hazards are factors causing psychological harm, including poor work-life balance, high demands, low control, inadequate support, bullying, and unclear roles, varying by individual tolerance.
Challenges to tackling Psychosocial Hazards in the workplace
Addressing workplace psychosocial hazards is challenging due to stigma around mental health, lack of awareness, and an unsupportive organisational culture. These factors hinder open discussions, recognition of risks, and effective interventions, complicating efforts to improve mental health conditions in the workplace.
Benefits of tackling Psychosocial hazards in the workplace
Companies that effectively manage psychosocial hazards in the workplace can experience a range of long-term benefits. By improving psychosocial safety, organisations foster open communication, stronger team dynamics, and higher employee engagement, all of which contribute to increased productivity. When employees feel psychologically safe and enjoy a positive workplace culture, absenteeism decreases, and job satisfaction rises, leading to better employee retention.
Additionally, focusing on mental health and wellbeing not only enhances overall employee health but also ensures compliance with mental health regulations. This can improve the organisation’s reputation and reduce costs associated with turnover, hiring, and productivity inefficiencies caused by stress or mental health issues.
Risks of psychosocial hazards in the workplace
Psychosocial hazards pose serious risks, including mental and physical health issues, decreased productivity, and increased turnover. Organisations must address these hazards to comply with legal obligations, prevent potential legal actions, and protect their reputation while ensuring employee well-being. Understanding and managing these risks is crucial.
Addressing workplace psychosocial hazards is legally and ethically essential, enhancing team dynamics, productivity, and retention while fostering a positive culture despite challenges like stigma and resistance.
Did you Know?
According to Safe Work Australia, the median time lost due to psychosocial hazards is four times greater than that caused by physical injuries and illnesses. This highlights the significant impact that stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges can have on the workforce, resulting in prolonged absences and reduced productivity. Managing psychosocial risks is crucial not only for employee well-being but also for minimising lost work time and ensuring the overall efficiency of an organisation.
References
Law, R., Dollard, M. F., Tuckey, M. R., & Dormann, C. (2011). Psychosocial safety climate as a lead indicator of workplace bullying and harassment, job resources, psychological health and employee engagement. Accident Analysis & Prevention, 43(5), 1782–1793. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aap.2011.04.010
Liat Eldor, Hodor, M., & Cappelli, P. (2023). The limits of psychological safety: Nonlinear relationships with performance. Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes, 177, 104255–104255. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.obhdp.2023.104255
Russo, M., Lucifora, C., Pucciarelli, F., & Piccoli, B. (2019). Work hazards and workers’ mental health: an investigation based on the fifth European Working Conditions Survey. La Medicina Del Lavoro, 110(2), 115–129. https://doi.org/10.23749/mdl.v110i2.7640
Safe Work Australia. (2024, February 27). New report on psychological health in Australian workplaces | Safe Work Australia. Safeworkaustralia.gov.au. https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/media-centre/media-release/new-report-psychological-health-australian-workplaces
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