The relationship between workplace risk assessments and measures to manage psychosocial risks at work: findings from ESENER

Abstract

Purpose: Workplace risk assessment (WRA) is crucial for the management of psychosocial risks at work (PSRM), but some enterprises may also implement PSRM measures without formal WRA, in particular small and micro enterprises. This study analyses the associations between WRA and PRSM, and whether the associations vary by company size. Methods: The data come from the European Survey of Enterprises on New and Emerging Risks (ESENER) collected at the enterprise level in the EU-28 countries in 2014 (n = 40,584) and 2019 (n = 39,711). We distinguish eight measures of PSRM, and assess whether companies conduct a comprehensive WRA that includes psychosocial risks. Results: Many companies reported PSRM measures. The lowest rates were for “intervention in the case of long working hours” (2014: 26%, 2019: 32%), while the highest rates were for “procedures in the case of threats” (56%, 60%). Enterprises with a comprehensive WRA are more likely to implement measures (even after controlling for company size, industry, sector and country), but some enterprises have implemented PSRM even in the absence of a WRA, especially in 2014 or in smaller companies (5–49 employees). For example, findings suggest that in 2014 40% of the enterprises without a WRA have implemented “procedures in the case of threats” (2019: 46%). Conclusion: The findings underline the importance of a WRA that includes psychosocial risks as a means of implementing PSRM measures, but also advocates for a broader perspective that considers measures taken independently of legal occupational safety and health (OSH) standards, especially in small and micro enterprises.