The People at Work Project assists employers to install a 5-step psychosocial risk management process that includes the assessment (via survey) of a range of different psychosocial hazards and worker health outcomes (e.g., excessive time pressure, emotional demands, low job control, poor change consultation). To date, 127 organisations have participated, leading to the creation of a database documenting the prevalence of psychosocial hazards in Australian workplaces across sectors, industries, and occupations.
In line with state and federal legislation, Australian organisations are legally obliged to ensure, as far as reasonably practicable, that they identify and manage psychosocial risks factors that may threaten the health and safety of employees.
Thus, an important component of the People at Work Project is the emphasis on the role of line managers and supervisors. Managers’ and supervisors’ leadership behaviours and own demands, resources, health and well-being may determine their attitudes towards subordinate care and self-care when it comes to managing occupational stress. It also examines the extent to which these supervisor characteristics determine confidence in their skills & abilities to identify and manage these risks.
PPRG contact: Professor Nerina Jimmieson