Another chance to influence health & safety policy

Until the end of July, the Health and Safety Executive is accepting comments on its consultation document 'Managing Stress at Work'. The HSE hopes to develop an Approved Code of Practice aimed at reducing workplace stress but would like input from those who would be responsible for its implementation.

As the research cited in this draft clearly shows, stress is a growing concern - with the costs being counted in declining productivity, absenteeism and, most recently, legal action. Unclear definitions are a problem, however.

The HSE makes the distinction between pressure - generally a good thing - and stress - with all its negative consequences - but where the transition occurs varies with time, circumstances and individuals. According to the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, the first aim of H&S regulations is 'securing the health, safety and welfare of persons at work'.

But, asks the HSE, can this be legitimately extended to include stress? The issue is not covered by any other workplace legislation. Current options span from taking no action, to issuing guidance (as the HSE has done in the past), to developing a specific ACoP. The preferred course of action may be suggested by the draft code appended to this consultation document.

'Managing Stress at Work' is available at www.open.gov.uk/hse/condocs and comments must be received by 30 July.

Elliott Chase