The way jobs are designed, organized and managed has a significant effect on the health and safety of workers and, according to the study, – The psychosocial work environment: global advances and avenues for action – The impact is increasing and is manifested in increasing rates of cardiovascular disease and mental disorders, including suicide..
The report's authors looked at three interrelated areas of work: the nature of the work (including demands, responsibilities and tasks), how it is organized and managed, and broader workplace policies (such as performance and reward processes and rules that prevent violence and harassment).
They calculated the figure of 840,000 deaths per year by looking at global levels of risk factors in the workplace: job tension, effort-reward imbalance, job insecurity, long working hours, bullying and harassment.
Scientific research shows how these risks increase the likelihood of serious health problems and the risk levels were compared to the latest global mortality and health data from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Global burden of disease study to get to the number.
An important challenge
Many of these risks have existed for a long time, but the ILO is concerned about the effects of the current transformations taking place in the places where we work.
These disruptions include digitalization, artificial intelligence, remote work, and new work arrangements that, if not adequately addressed, can intensify existing problems or create new ones.
“Psychosocial risks are becoming one of the most important challenges to occupational safety and health in the modern world of work.” says Manal Azzi, team leader on OSH policies and systems at the ILO. “Improving the psychosocial work environment is essential not only to protect the physical and mental health of workers, but also to strengthen productivity, organizational performance and sustainable economic development.”
Creating a healthier workplace
The report highlights that The risks and excess deaths can be avoided if the root causes are addressed.and whether psychosocial risk management is integrated into occupational health and safety systems and supported by social dialogue between governments, employers and workers.
By proactively addressing risks, the report concludes, countries and companies can create healthier workplaces that benefit both workers and organizations, while strengthening productivity and economic resilience.
