Page 1 of 6 PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT OF WORK-RELATED STRESS POLICY 1. DEFINITION OF STRESS 1.1 The Health and Safety Executive defines stress as ‘the adverse reaction people have to excessive pressures or other types of demand place on them’ 1.2 This makes an important distinction between the beneficial effects of reasonable pressure and challenge (which can be stimulating, motivating, and can give a ‘buzz’) and work-related stress, which is the natural but distressing reaction to demands or ‘pressures’ that the person perceives they cannot cope with at a given time. 1.3 Anyone can, in principle, experience work-related stress. Work-related stress exists where people perceive they cannot cope with what is being asked of them at work. It is important to remember that work-related stress is not an illness, but if it is prolonged or particularly intense, it can lead to increased problems with ill health. 2. RESPONSIBILITIES OF WATMOS 2.1 WATMOS recognises that its staff are its most valuable asset and that only through their personal and professional development - in a healthy and safe working environment - can they be encouraged to contribute fully to the life of WATMOS in the achievement of its strategic aims. 2.2 Whilst WATMOS has no control over external factors, as a good employer it wishes to promote the physical, psychological and social well-being of all its employees. It is committed to ensuring, so far as is reasonably practicable, that no member of staff is subjected to an excessive and sustained level of reasonably foreseeable work-related stress that is detrimental to their health. 3. OBJECTIVES OF THE POLICY 3.1 WATMOS aims to understand the phenomenon of work-related stress and put in place both preventative and reactive measures including:  Promoting a culture of encouragement, participation and open communication.  Increasing awareness of the phenomenon of work-related stress and the methods available to combat this.  Assisting staff in managing stress in themselves and others.  Providing appropriate and confidential support for those who are experiencing stress. 4. RESPONSIBILITIES OF ALL EMPLOYEES 4.1 Employees have a responsibility to take reasonably practicable steps to minimise their own stress levels and those of their fellow workers who may be affected by their acts or omissions. They also have a legal responsibility to comply with the