healthcare update - issue 10
British Standards Institution to develop a standard for management of workplace stress
The British Standards Institution has recently reported that
they are to work with Nottingham University in developing a
guidance document, designed to assist employers in addressing
work-related stress. The World Health Organization is also among
the bodies represented on the steering group for the standard.
The principle purpose of the guidance is to allow employers to
assess and manage the risks associated with workplace stress.
However, the development of a ‘good practice standard’ could also
have implications for defendants faced with civil claims arising
from alleged work-related stress.
The implementation of a recognised standard would represent a
benchmark for management of workplace stress, providing guidance as
to the nature and extent of psychosocial risk assessment expected
of employers. Should an employer fall below the standards
identified, this undoubtedly has the potential to heavily influence
the outcome of a civil claim – if it is shown there has been a
failure to implement the guidance and that this caused, or
contributed, to a claimant’s psychiatric injury then it is
foreseeable that liability will attach.
Whilst we are clearly at a very early stage in the process, the
guidance will be awaited with interest by PCTs and trusts as both
employers and potential defendants.
talk to us
save to PDF
The content of this update is provided for the purposes of general
interest and information. It contains only brief summaries of
aspects of the subject matter and does not provide comprehensive
statements of the law. It does not constitute legal advice and does
not provide a substitute for it.