Psychosocial Hazards and Workplace Safety

psychosocial hazards and workplace safety
Psychosocial hazards are factors in how work is designed or managed that may cause stress, leading to psychological or physical harm. Ensuring psychosocial safety—where employees feel safe from bullying, harassment, and harmful behaviours—is essential to both well-being and productivity.

What you should know, examples and how to manage psychosocial hazards

Psychosocial hazards are factors in how work is designed or managed that may cause stress, leading to psychological or physical harm. Ensuring psychosocial safety—where employees feel safe from bullying, harassment, and harmful behaviours—is essential to both well-being and productivity.

What You Should Know

  • Psychosocial hazards are not industry-specific—they can appear in any workplace.
  • The impact of these hazards includes stress, anxiety, depression, and physical health problems like heart disease and stroke.
  • Poor psychosocial safety can lead to absenteeism, turnover, and reduced productivity.

Managing Psychosocial Hazards

  • Foster a positive work environment where employees feel supported.
  • Provide clear roles, responsibilities, and adequate training.
  • Establish zero-tolerance policies for bullying and harassment.
  • Encourage open communication to address issues before they escalate.
  • Offer support services—such as counselling for employees who experience trauma at work.

Examples of Common Hazards and Solutions

Hazard: High job demands, low control
Solution: Increase employee autonomy

Hazard: Poor workplace relationships
Solution: Provide training on building positive relationships

Hazard: Lack of support from management
Solution: Ensure regular feedback and encourage employees to raise concerns early

How can Businessary help you?

Find out more about any of the above or reach out to Lana Rajsic for a no obligation discussion by booking a time here.