Researchers at Stanford & Harvard recently conducted a study into how stressful work conditions, such as unpredictable hours, unreliable management and unreasonable job demands affect workers health.
According to the study, which was published in “Behavioral Science & Policy” some workplace stressors do in fact negatively affect employee’s health. Most of the stressors sited are preventable and avoidable if employers take the proper precautions, for example long working hours and availability of employer-provided health care and organizational justice.
How big of a problem is workplace stress?
“In all, the researchers calculated that workplace stress contributes to at least 120,000 deaths each year – comparable to the annual number of accidental deaths in the United States – and accounts for up to $190 billion in health care costs.” – NY Times
What should employers take away from the study?
A stressful work environment puts your employee’s health and your business at risk. Happy, fulfilled employees are proven to be more productive in the workplace.
For more information about creating an effective and positive workplace, click here.
If you or a loved one’s health has suffered due to unacceptable work place conditions you should consider contacting an experienced workers compensation attorney. Click here to fill out a free case evaluation.
