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Psychosocial factors 'must be recognised by employers'

05 May 2011

Employers who want to maintain good health and safety standards in the workplace could benefit from recognising psychosocial factors among their workforce.

According to Kevin Friery, clinical director at Right Corecare, people who have support are more likely to find a "helpful solution" to their problems than those who are left alone.

This, he said, is because workers without anyone to talk to often take the wrong course of action when aiming to address certain issues.

For instance, Mr Friery stated that those who have money worries often choose to work as many hours as possible and therefore end up getting "burnt out".

As a result, they make "irrational choices" rather than sensible measured decisions.

According to figures from the Health and Safety Executive, about one in four Britons experience some form of mental health issues throughout their lives, such as depression, anxiety and stress.

The regulator noted that problems at work can often trigger these conditions.

Read more about PAS 1010 Guidance on the management of psychosocial risks in the workplace