25 Mar Psychological Risks in the Workplace

Workers in every industry experience some level or risk, for most blue-collar industries this can be workplace safety issues, whereas other industries largest risks are related to technology and cybersecurity.

However, one hazard that transcends all industries is Psychological Risk. This is any social/organisational factor that can cause psychological or physical harm.

Now, Western Australia has taken a big step forward in officially recognising these psychological hazards in the workplace after adopting the The ‘Code of Practice on Psychological Hazards in the Workplace’ as part of Western Australia’s ‘Occupational Safety and Health Act 1984’.
The World Health Organisation officially recognises 10 Psychological Hazards in the workplace:

1. Job Content – minimal variety, mundane tasks, over skilled for day-to-day tasks
2. Workload / Workplace – overload or underload, deadline pressures
3. Work Schedule – unpredictable or unsustainable work hours
4. Control – limited involvement in decision making on personal and firm projects
5. Environment & Equipment – minimal / poor equipment, poor working conditions
6. Organisational Culture & Function – toxic work environment, minimal communication, minimal support
7. Interpersonal Relationships – poor relationships with superiors and peers, bullying / harassment
8. Role in Organisation – unclear role & responsibilities, role conflict
9. Career Development – poor pay, limited opportunities for growth
10. Home-work Balance – conflicting demands between home and work life

We are already experiencing the affect ignoring these factors can have on workers and the business overall. A survey of 1,540 Australian workers showed that 67% said they choose to work through sickness rather than take time off due to fear of job loss.

The Western Australian government has made a significant first move in the right direction, meanwhile the Australian federal, state and territory ministers have agreed to investigate this further.