AppendixStressaudit.docVIP

Appendix: Stress audit This audit is designed to enable employers: to identify sources of stress in the workplace; to establish which groups of employees are more at risk; to evaluate the severity of the risk; to assess and evaluate current strategies for dealing with stress at work; to specify the further measures that may be necessary over a period of time to reduce stress amongst all groups of employees; and to review the situation at a later date. The audit takes the form of a series of questions directed at ascertaining the existing level of stress and future potential for stress amongst employees. It incorporates an Action Plan which should identify short-, medium- and long-term recommendations for action. Undertaking the audit The audit should preferably be undertaken by a designated group, such as a senior manager, health and safety specialist or occupational health nurse, who has been trained in stress management, and employee representatives. All the questions should be considered carefully. Elements of the HSE’s Management Standards for Stress have been incorporated into the audit. What is stress? For the purposes of this stress audit, ‘stress’ is defined as ‘pressure and demands placed on a person beyond his ability to cope’ (HSE, 1995). 1. Current information What is the current level of sickness absence? Are the causes of sickness absence classified? Is the current level of sickness absence satisfactory compared with other organizations in the particular industry or business group? Are managers aware of those on sick leave who may be suffering the effects of work-related stress? Is current time-keeping satisfactory? Are certain employees habitually late for work? Is there evidence of increased alcohol consumption amongst some employees? Do some employees complain of sleep and digestive disorders? Have all employees completed a Personal Stress Questionnaire? Have the results of the Personal Stress Questionnaire been analysed with a view to identifying t