World safety day message by Labour and Human Resource Development Minister Idith Alexander |28 April 2016

‘Workers are prone to be exposed to work-related stress due to high expectations’

Workplace stress is contributed by increased anticipation, longer working hours and competition therefore causing an impact on workers’ social life and their safety at work. All workers are prone to be exposed to work-related stress due to high expectations and competitive environment.

Labour and Human Resource Development Minister Idith Alexander has said this in her message on the occasion of World Safety Day, today

The minister’s message reads:

“The evident change in times and patterns of work are related to various aspects: Advancement in technology, economic changes and shift in environmental requirements bring about positive achievements. However, they increase the level of demand in work performance. Today, Seychelles joins the world to participate in the campaign for World Safety Day, under the chosen theme adopted by the International Labour Organisation “Workplace Stress: A collective Challenge”. “The theme addresses the issue of exerted efforts on workers to keep up with the changing trend. Workplace stress is contributed by increased anticipation, longer working hours and competition, therefore causing an impact on workers social life and their safety at work. All workers are prone to be exposed to work related stress due to high expectations and competitive environment.

“In this regard, in order to better manage workplace stress, my ministry is putting more emphasis on sensitising both employers and workers on the importance of work life balance. In addition, support is being provided through extensive monitoring of working conditions to ensure that work is being performed in a conducive environment.

“Motivation is also a tool which tends to reduce the effect of stress on workers. It is with this line that my ministry is conducting for the very first time a National Employee of the Year Award to be held this week. This will be a confirmation to workers that their good performance is recognised.  “My ministry remains committed in keeping a proactive approach in building a healthy workforce through the continued revision of its Occupational Safety and Health policy and legislation, all geared towards promoting decent work for all.

“The management of psychological health at workplaces is not solely a responsibility of the government. Employers should ensure the working environment is conducive, as well as an appropriate management of working conditions. Workers as well should attempt to create a balance between work and social life.

“I therefore take this opportunity to call on everyone concerned to pursue our effort and continually find ways in establishing and maintaining a favorable working environment that encourages commitment and dedication towards work, without any harm to workers’ health.”