Emerging need for a national policy on psychosocial risk assessment and monitoring in a developing country: A modified Delphi Study

Abstract

Purpose: To create a framework for consensus on the assessment and monitoring of psychosocial risks by taking the opinions of key people from relevant experts and institutions in Turkey. Methods: A modified Delphi Study was conducted with key experts from different stakeholders and institutions working on psychosocial risk assessment and monitoring policy and practice in Turkey. Representation was not aimed. Purposive and convenient sample was selected by including tripartite structure of occupational health perspective. The study was conducted on June and July 2019 via internet. Two rounded survey method was used to get information from the participants. Results: The participants were agreed on workload, lack of job security, overwork, the low quality of leadership, insufficient wages, underemployment, mobbing, bullying and discrimination are the most important psychosocial risks in Turkey. Psychosocial risk assessments were not carried out in workplaces due to non-prioritization and negligence. The awareness on psychosocial risks at work is low and no standard approach has been identified in psychosocial risk monitoring. There is a need for an action plan supported by many different disciplines, stakeholders and institutions. Legal infrastructure and guideing is needed for psychosocial risk assessment. Competence of OHS professionals should be ensured for the efficient execution. Conclusion: Legal regulations and complementary documents are necessary to guide employers and OHS professionals while conducting psychosocial risk management. These actions should be handled with all participation of social partners, sectoral and professional associations.