The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has today announced that it is to focus on teaching managers how to deal with stress.
A series of master classes and free seminars will teach practice managers how to comply with HSE management standards for work-related stress.
HSE data shows that one out of every six workers believe their job is extremely or very stressful, and nearly 12,000 people in the UK suffer from stress-related heart problems.
Peter Brown, head of HSE health and work department, said: “The HSE defines stress as the adverse reaction people feel to excessive pressure, it can affect a person’s mental health, sleep and cause panic attacks and sexual anxiety.”
He adds that stress can affect a person’s employability and profitability, factors important to a manager who wishes to create a happy working environment.
According to HSE data, the average person suffering from stress at work takes 10 days off due to excessive pressure in the workplace.
Mr Brown hopes the classes and seminars will create networks of mutual support and learning. He reminds managers that when dealing with stress at work, they should listen, talk and take action.
“Stress seems daunting, but there are simple things you can do,” he says.
