Work-related stress

A major new awareness intiative on preventing workplace stress has been launched by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Initially aimed at the public sector where levels of reported stress are highest, managers of schools, hospitals, police and emergency services will be advised on steps to take in preventing the condition. Further information about the stress initiative and related publications is available from the HSE website at www.hse.gov.uk.

* Nearly one in three workers in Europe is suffering from stress. This cost industry £13 billion last year, according to a new European Union study. Data from the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work shows 41 million people, 28% of the workforce, suffer ailments linked to work pressure, lack of control and monotony. Stress is surpassed only by backpain as a cause of absenteeism.