4 November 2004 - HSE Results of Consultation on Management Standards for Stress in the Workplace
Our May story on HSfB can be accessed by clicking the following link: New Stress Non-Legislative Yardstick Campaign for Businesses Launched Today
The HSE aimed at whether their Management Standards were achievable and were piloted with over 20 organisations prior to the consultation period being made public on their website in May 2004. A distribution of CD roms was sent to 350 companies. The broad consensus of the consultation showed that the Management Standards were achievable in workplaces, as the following quotations show.
Minister for Work, Jane Kennedy commented:
“This is a very practical example of what can be done to demonstrate how easy it can be to reduce the causes of work related stress. The Management Standards for Work-related Stress provide clear advice for employers to follow.”
Jane Asherson of the CBI also commented:
“This is an authoritative set of principles and a framework to help employers and employees tackle stress at work. “
Mr. Hugh Robertson from the TUC said:
" In the absence of legislation these standards are the most effective tool that employers can use to help end the epidemic of stress related illnesses. We hope employers will work with safety representatives and stewards to use the standards."
A further comment from Mr. Bill Callaghan Chair of Health and Safety Commission was:
“Pressure is part and parcel of all work and helps to keep us motivated. But excessive pressure can lead to stress which undermines performance, is costly to employers and can make people ill. The Standards highlight the components of good organisation, job design and management that keep stress levels in check and enhance productivity.”
Organisations such as Shell plc and West Dorset General Hospitals NHS Trust, have welcomed the HSE Management Standards for stress in the workplace.
Information on work-related stress and Management Standards can be accessed by clicking the following: Stress homepage
Article by Alexandra Johnston
