A work-related stress risk assessment is a process used to identify, evaluate, and manage workplace factors that could cause stress, ensuring the health, safety, and wellbeing of employees.

This risk assessment helps organisations comply with legal duties under the Health and Safety at Work Act and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations by identifying stressors and implementing measures to prevent or reduce stress.

A work-related stress risk assessment should identify key stressors and evaluate their impact on employees. Focus areas include workload demands, employee control over their work, support from colleagues and managers, workplace relationships, role clarity, and how organisational changes are managed.

Consider who might be affected, including vulnerable groups like new hires or those returning after absences.

Refer to measures to address stressors, such as managing workloads, increasing employee input, fostering a supportive and respectful culture, clarifying roles, and communicating changes effectively.

State how measures will be monitored for effectiveness through employee feedback, surveys, or meetings, and revise the assessment to adapt to new challenges.

The HSE defines stress as ‘the adverse reaction people have to excessive pressures or other types of demand placed on them’.

Work-related stress refers to excess of demands in the workplace that exceed your ability to cope. The HSE has produced stress management standards which are helpful for managers and employees and are used in stress risk assessments.

Under the Employment Rights Act 1996, Section 98, an employer may dismiss an employee for reasons related to capability, including prolonged absence or incapacity due to work-related stress, provided a fair process is followed.

The Equality Act 2010 requires employers to make reasonable adjustments if work-related stress leads to a disability. Failure to do so, or dismissing without considering adjustments, could result in claims of unfair dismissal or discrimination.

Provide employees and managers with training so they can recognise and manage the signs of stress. We offer Stress Awareness Training for Employees and Stress Awareness for Managers.

Ways to prevent stress include:

• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep.
• Managing time effectively, setting realistic goals, and prioritising tasks.
• Practising relaxation techniques like deep breathing or mindfulness.
• Maintaining a strong support network and seeking help when needed. Avoiding excessive caffeine and alcohol and taking regular breaks to recharge.

Signs of stress at work include:

• Physical. Fatigue, headaches, muscle tension, or sleep disturbances.
• Emotional. Irritability, anxiety, low morale, or feeling overwhelmed.
• Behavioural. Increased absenteeism, reduced productivity, or changes in eating habits.
• Cognitive. Difficulty concentrating, indecisiveness, or forgetfulness.
• Social. Withdrawal from colleagues or conflicts in the workplace.

Yes, as an employer, you have a legal duty under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of employees, which includes managing workplace stress.

Under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, you must assess risks to health, including stress, and take action to control these risks.

Failure to address workplace stress could lead to legal consequences and impact employee well-being and productivity. Conducting stress risk assessments and implementing measures to reduce stress is essential for compliance.

Anxiety is a feeling of unease, such as worry or fear, that can be mild or severe. It is an expected natural response to everyday life but if it is prolonged and interferes with daily life then you should seek help.

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a talking therapy that can help someone manage their problems by changing the way they think and behave. It teaches the individual coping skills for dealing with difficult problems, focusing on thoughts, beliefs and attitudes.