Stress Policy Workshop

Aims of Session Understand the need for the Policy Identify causes, effects and management of stress Outline specific roles Outline strategies to deal with individual cases.

Definition of Stress “An adverse reaction people have to excessive pressure or other types of demands placed on them.” (HSE)

Why have a Stress Policy? HASAWA – legal obligation Case law Moral duty of care HSE requirements.

HSE Management Standards Demands – such as workload, work patterns and the work environment. Control – such as how much say the person has in the way they do their work.

Support – such as the encouragement, sponsorship and resources provided by the organisation, line management and colleagues. Relationships – such as promoting positive working to avoid conflict and dealing with unacceptable behaviour.

Role – such as whether people understand their role within the organisation and whether the organisation ensures that they do not have conflicting roles. Change – such as how organisational change (large or small) is managed and communicated in the organisation.

Management Standards Exercise

Identifying Symptoms of Stress Physical symptoms include: Backache Fatigue Muscle tension Breathing difficulties Headaches Chest pains Sweating palms, dry mouth, nervous twitches etc.

Behavioural symptoms include: Absenteeism Erratic moods Apathy Indecision Unusually emotive or impulsive Accidents Loss of appetite Evading duties or responsibilities Complaining.

Emotional symptoms include: Anxiety Irritability Low self-esteem and confidence Depression Poor sleep Aggression Inappropriate behaviour Withdrawal from social contacts.

Stress Risk Assessment 1.Identify the hazards 2.Who can be harmed and how 3.Evaluate the risk and take action 4.Record your findings 5.Monitor and review.

Stress Policy.

Any questions?