Stress In The Workplace
Studies have shown that for every dollar spent on controlling psychosocial hazards in the workplace, you can capture between three to six dollars on your bottom line!
We can learn many things about stress management and how stress management can benefit workplaces. For example, some dairy farmers are drastically changing the way in which cows are raised and treated. Dairy farmers have found that creating a relaxing, non-stressful environment for the cows turns into better profits. Cows no longer are cooped up in small stalls, or separated from their young; instead they roam freely in pastures. At milking time, the cows go in a modern, high-tech barn that is designed for maximum comfort. The floors are made of stainless steel, that's so that the robotic squeegee can scrape all waste matter away to prevent disease. The cows also have access to large "car-wash type" brushes that automatically spin when a cow is present, this is to help the cow get at those irritating itches. Milking the cow is accomplished by a laser guided machine that finds each nipple, all without any person touching the cow. Once hooked up, the machine monitors the milk for any temperature changes or disease. To further reduce stress the cow is always with their young, even when it's time for milking. Dairy farmers say that a happy cow gives more milk, and that the milk is better quality. In simple terms, they are witnessing positive results from their investment in stress management.
Stressed workers around the world are less productive, more prone to accidents, have more sick days, sabotage systems and cost industries many millions of dollars on the bottom line. The solution to these problems can come through a good stress management program where employees feel good about coming to work and doing the best job they can. Creating this friendly, non-confrontational atmosphere can be attained through: commitment, desire, and proper leadership that must start at the top. The monetary cost of stress management can be minimal when you understand your psychosocial hazards that exist in your workplace and you control them.
Holy Cow!
Recent Comments
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To bad that the big guys at the top aren't listening. I feel that more people are being taken advantage of these days. Ever since 2008 we get the same excuses about how bad the economy is, but the bosses keep getting the raises and the workers get scraps.
Very accurate snapshot of our current workplace conditions Dan.
There a some smart managers who realize this and do something positive to effect change with great results, but sadly, you are right about the majority.
I always say a bucket of honey is better than a bucket of shit.
Thanks so much! I am getting a good vibe putting myself out to the world with this. I really am encouraged by everyone on WA
Wish I was a cow. So I could get a brush to work on some of those ichy places I can't reach. Ha..ha. great post
I am glad you found this post interesting. I am sure many CEO's would be interested as well. Just trying to figure out how to reach them with a fresh new approach to loss prevention.
I can tell you as the owner of a commercial janitorial company this is a major concern for us. Obviously, there are some executives and owners that are on board, but it's usually more likely the Manufacturing Engineer/Operations or Safety Directors in industrial/manufacturingmedical facilities or businesses where injury are more prone. However, when employees are leaving work, it's dusk or dark out, the parking lot isn't well lit, and isn't salted...that is just as bad of potential injury as anywhere.
Thanks for the comment. Sounds like you are in a icy-cold area. Slips in the parking lot are very common and are very preventable with the right controls. Usually though, it is the last thing thought of until someone does slip and fall.
Very informative, I think you did a great job with this blog. It was really interesting to read about workplace environmental conditions and how they influence productivity. I didn't know that this is how they treat cows who are responsible for the milk that we each and everyday. I personally drink soy, almond, rice, or coconut milk, not dairy :) Like what you did there at the end though, Holy Cow!
:) Thanks!
It's a bit of a passion for me to educate people in authority at workplaces on the psychological aspect and benefits of treating people good. We have all had good and bad bosses and have experienced the results from their management styles.
I will write every day something new to help shape this into reality.
Many Thanks,
John
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This is why it is much easier on the stress level to achieve your goals at your own pace such as here at WA
ken