Several weeks ago we highlighted the resources available at the Health and Safety Executive website. This week we would like to highlight one of the their specific resources, the example stress policy. The H&SE website has an example stress policy that organisations can use to craft their own. It is well worth using for your organisation:

Introduction

We are committed to protecting the health, safety and welfare of our employees. We recognise that workplace stress is a health and safety issue and acknowledge the importance of identifying and reducing workplace stressors. This policy will apply to everyone in the company. Managers are responsible for implementation and the company is responsible for providing the necessary resources.

Definition of stress

The Health and Safety Executive define stress as “the adverse reaction people have to excessive pressure or other types of demand placed on them”. This makes an important distinction between pressure, which can be a positive state if managed correctly, and stress which can be detrimental to health.

Policy

  • The company will identify all workplace stressors and conduct risk assessments to eliminate stress or control the risks from stress. These risk assessments will be regularly reviewed.
  • The company will consult with Trade Union Safety Representatives on all proposed action relating to the prevention of workplace stress.
  • The company will provide training for all managers and supervisory staff in good management practices.
  • The company will provide confidential counselling for staff affected by stress caused by either work or external factors.
  • The company will provide adequate resources to enable managers to implement the company’s agreed stress management strategy.

Read the full example here: http://www.hse.gov.uk/stress/standards/downloads.htm