Work-related musculoskeletal and mental health disorders: Are workplace policies and practices based on contemporary evidence?

Abstract

Stress related mental health disorders (MHDs) and musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are significant workplace problems associated with exposure to a range of physical and psychosocial workplace hazards. Little is known about real-world risk management practices used by organisations to mitigate MHD and MSD risk. The current study examines risk management policies and practices for MHDs and MSDs in three high risk industry sectors. MethodData was collected via interviews with 25 Work, Health & Safety (WHS) Managers from the healthcare, retail, and transport/logistics sectors on risk management practices implemented for stress related MHDs and MSDs in their organisations. The organisational policies and procedures for MHDs and MSDs were assessed for coverage of five key dimensions (reference to, exposure factors, outcomes, assessment, prevention) using an adapted policy score card. ResultsAnalysis of interview data identified key themes which impact risk management approaches including: a failure to adopt a comprehensive approach to risk management, and the influences of senior management. Across all three sectors, coverage of physical hazards was more comprehensive in comparison to psychosocial hazards. ConclusionsDespite recognition that MHDs and MSDs are significant workplace problems, approaches to manage these complex health issues are not based on contemporary evidence. Transactional approaches are used which fail to take account of the multiple interacting hazards associated with the development of work related MHDs and MSDs. Improved guidance material and support from the regulators is required along with education of WHS Managers about how to identify and manage psychosocial hazards to reduce the significant burden of MHD and MSDs.