Psychosocial Hazards

Key psychosocial hazards impacting mental health in the workplace

1. Work-related Stress

Work-related stress is one of the most significant psychosocial risks in today’s workplaces. It stems from high job demands, excessive workloads, unrealistic deadlines, and insufficient support. This can lead to burnout, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.

2. Bullying and Harassment

Workplace bullying and harassment are serious psychosocial risks that involve repeated and unreasonable behaviour toward employees. This includes verbal abuse, exclusion, intimidation, and sexual harassment.

3. Job Insecurity

Fear of job loss or uncertainty about future employment can create high levels of anxiety and stress. This is particularly relevant in industries undergoing structural changes or downsizing.

4. Poor Organisational Culture

A negative or toxic workplace culture, where communication is poor, and leadership is ineffective, can contribute to employee dissatisfaction and stress. Factors such as a lack of transparency, unaddressed conflicts, or favouritism are common risks.

5. Role Ambiguity and Role Conflict

Unclear job roles or conflicting job demands are common sources of stress. Employees may feel confused about their responsibilities, lack direction, or be pulled in multiple directions, creating frustration and anxiety.

6. Low Job Control

When workers feel they have little to no control over how they perform their job tasks or make decisions about their work, they experience stress. High levels of supervision or rigid management structures can exacerbate this feeling.

7. Poor Support from Managers and Colleagues

Lack of support, feedback, or encouragement from supervisors and peers can lead to feelings of isolation and stress. Employees without adequate guidance often feel overwhelmed.

8. Violence or Aggression at Work

Exposure to workplace violence, whether physical or psychological, is a serious psychosocial hazard. This includes verbal threats, aggressive behaviour, or physical harm.

9. Inadequate Work-Life Balance

A poor work-life balance arises from excessive work demands, leading to long hours or inflexibility in working conditions. This can create stress, burnout, and mental health issues for workers who are unable to manage personal and professional responsibilities effectively.

10. Exposure to Traumatic Events

For employees in high-risk industries (such as healthcare or emergency services), regular exposure to traumatic or emotionally challenging situations can create significant psychosocial risks. Over time, this may lead to conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

11. Discrimination

Discriminatory practices based on gender, race, age, disability, or other factors can cause significant stress and mental health challenges. Discrimination can lead to feelings of marginalisation, helplessness, and low self-esteem.