workplace stress definition

workplace stress refers to those negative reactions people have to aspects of their environment due to pressures within the work environment. The employer recognises its legal requirement to assess the working environment for systems and practices that may lead to negative stress response and to put into place preventative measures. It is also recognised that policies which benefit employee health can improve productivity. Low levels of negative stress response are associated with low levels of staff turnover, absenteeism and low rates of injury. Workplaces that are perceived as healthy are characterised by clear policies and active methods of dealing with people which encourage: