10/06/2008
The law relating to stress at work.
Research suggests that a moderate amount of pressure can be positive as it keeps us motivated and alert, which can increase performance. However, too much pressure, and for too long can lead to a feeling we are unable to cope, and this can trigger stress.
1 in 5 people say that they find their work either very or extremely stressful. Under UK legislation, employers have a legal duty of care to ensure their employees are not harmed by work related stress. In addition they have a duty to assess the risk arising from hazards at work, including stress. If they breach their duty employers may be sued by stressed workers for negligence, breach of contract or unfair dismissal.
In November 2004, The HSE introduced the Management Standards Approach and guidelines on work related stress. These were designed encourage employers, employees and their representatives to work in partnership to address work-related stress throughout their organisation.
A total of 13.8 million working days were lost to work-related stress, depression, and anxiety in 2006/2007. It is therefore in an employer’s interest to put in place measures to control and reduce stress. Good employers should have a stress policy and carry out staff surveys, encouraging employees to express their honest opinions together with holding regular staff meetings.
The message to all employers appears to be – tackle stress at work and have a happier more productive workforce.
Linda Dack is a trainee solicitor at Watkins and Gunn and is based at their head office in Pontypool and can be contacted on 01495 768936. |
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