HSE and NEBOSH introduce new qualification to tackle workplace stress

Employers have a legal duty to safeguard employees from stress at work. (Image source: Canva)

Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and NEBOSH launched a new one-day qualification aimed at managing and controlling stress in the workplace.

Figures from the HSE indicate that stress, depression, or anxiety were the primary causes of work-related ill health in 2021/22, accounting for 17 million lost working days. Work-related stress can be triggered by six main factors: demands, control, support, relationships, role, and change.

Employers have a legal duty to safeguard employees from stress at work by conducting risk assessments and implementing necessary measures. The new NEBOSH HSE Certificate in Managing Stress at Work equips managers with the knowledge to identify and mitigate workplace stressors proactively.

HSE’s Working Minds Campaign

Throughout April, the HSE has been advocating for employers to adopt five straightforward steps to prevent and reduce workplace stress. These steps, encapsulated in the 5 Rs, are: reaching out and having conversations with employees to discuss their stressors and concerns, recognising the signs and causes of stress in the workplace, responding to any risks identified by taking action to address and mitigate them, reflecting on the effectiveness of the measures implemented, and making stress management a routine part of regular workplace practices.

The course is based on the HSE's current methodology for managing and controlling work-related stress. It provides an overview of the fundamental principles of work-related stress and its link to mental health issues. The course targets individuals responsible for employee wellbeing or managing workplace stress, including health and safety professionals, HR professionals, occupational health professionals, line managers, and supervisors.

By offering this qualification, HSE and NEBOSH aim to empower organisations to foster healthier work environments and reduce the prevalence of stress-related illnesses, ensuring better mental health and productivity for employees.