Are psychological hazards considered in the hazard assessment process?

Psychological hazards are indeed an essential aspect of workplace safety and can significantly affect employee well-being and productivity. They encompass issues such as stress, harassment, and workplace violence, which can lead to serious mental health challenges for employees.

Including psychological hazards in the hazard assessment process is increasingly recognized as vital. By doing so, organizations can identify and mitigate risks associated with mental health, fostering a safer and more supportive work environment. This supports employee morale and overall organizational health.

The choice indicating that psychological hazards are considered "soft hazards" suggests a tendency to underestimate their impact compared to more visible or traditionally recognized physical hazards. However, this viewpoint can hinder the integration of psychological hazards into comprehensive safety assessments. Practices are evolving to ensure that these hazards are not overlooked in the assessment process, reinforcing the importance of addressing all dimensions of employee safety.