Safe Work Australia recently released a series of case studies designed to assist in identifying, evaluating, and controlling psychosocial risks that arise on the job as well as reviewing control methods.
On-the-job psychosocial hazards might arise in connection with the following, according to the independent government organization that creates policies to enhance workplace safety and health:
- The design and management of work
- The working environment
- Machinery, equipment, and tools at a workplace
- Jobsite interactions or behaviors
The first case study centers on a fictional retail setting and identifies some of the major psychosocial risks that retail employees encounter, including challenging clients, pressure to reach sales goals, erratic work schedules, and long work hours. The agency’s “Managing Psychosocial Hazards at Work” Code of Practice states that any of these risks have the potential to result in physical or psychological harm.
Examples of risk management techniques are provided in the case studies.
