Workplace health and safety is no longer only about physical injury. In 2021 ISO published ISO 45003, the first international guideline on managing psychosocial risks within an occupational health and safety management system (ISO 45001). It recognises that stress, bullying and burnout are health and safety issues.
What are psychosocial hazards?
- Work organisation: excessive workload, tight deadlines, unclear roles, long hours, poor shift design
- Social factors: bullying, harassment, isolation, poor communication and lack of support
- Work environment and equipment: noise, temperature and unsuitable tools that increase strain
- Hazardous tasks: violence, traumatic events or working alone
- Job insecurity and lack of control over how work is done
Warning signs
Rising absence, high turnover, more errors and near misses, conflict, withdrawal, fatigue and falling morale can all point to psychosocial problems.
Using ISO 45003 with your OH&S system
- Leadership: make psychological health a visible priority.
- Worker participation: consult through surveys, focus groups and safety committees.
- Identify hazards: use workload analysis, surveys and incident data.
- Control risks: redesign work, set realistic targets and adjust staffing.
- Provide support: manager training, employee assistance programmes and a clear route to raise concerns.
- Monitor and improve: review indicators and act on feedback.
Practical actions for managers
- Hold regular one-to-ones and ask about workload.
- Define roles and priorities clearly.
- Respect breaks, leave and sensible working hours.
- Address bullying and harassment promptly and fairly.
- Build a culture where asking for help is normal.
Key takeaway: Treat psychological health like any other hazard: identify it, control it at source, and review it.
Frequently asked questions
Is ISO 45003 certifiable?
It is a guideline, not a certifiable standard; it supports ISO 45001.
Where to start?
Review our workplace stress management courses.