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New book helps employers prevent harm from workplace stress
A new guide to workplace stress legislation has been published - as a recent survey finds many New Zealand businesses ill-prepared to deal with such problems.
The guide, Workplace Stress in New Zealand, has been written by Andrew Scott-Howman, a partner at leading law firm Bell Gully, and Dr Chris Walls, an occupational medicine specialist with the Department of Labour.
Recent amendments to health and safety legislation require employers to protect their employees from harm caused by workplace stress.
However, July's TMP/Hudson Job Index Survey found that nearly a third of New Zealand businesses were not aware of, or were yet to respond to the new legislation.
"Employers cannot eliminate stress completely, but they must protect their employees from the harm caused by stress," said Andrew.
"Good procedures are essential, but as people respond differently to stress and vary their response over time, employers need to be able to recognise harm from stress, be aware of their responsibilities, and be equipped to deal with issues as they arise. "
Workplace Stress in New Zealand
The guide explains the issues and implications of the legislation from both legal and medical perspectives. It will help employers to establish procedures and to deal correctly with situations as they arise.
Workplace Stress in New Zealand (ISBN 0-86472-453-5) is published by Brookers and includes the complete legislation and the latest OSH guidelines. Copies can be ordered by visiting www.brookers.co.nz.
About the authors
Andrew Scott-Howman is a partner with Bell Gully and is one of New Zealand's leading legal advisors in employment law. He has particular expertise in claims relating to workplace stress.
Dr Chris Walls regularly provides expert medical advice and background on this area of occupational health and assisted in the preparation of the OSH guidelines on workplace stress.
About Bell Gully
Bell Gully's is one of New Zealand's leading commercial law firms, with offices in Auckland and Wellington and 250 legal staff. The firm has one of the country's best employment law practices, advising on employment and HR policy and representing clients in mediations, adjudications and court hearings.
For further information, please contact:
Josephine Gallagher
Senior Marketing and Communications Manager
Bell Gully
