Evaluation of work-related stress in office workers of a public institution

Abstract

Research and field studies include work-related stress among the factors inducing health adverse effects, which in turn cause both absence and a reduced performance at work. The current study investigated the possible relationship between work-related stress and individual susceptibility among 92 employees of a Public Office. In addition to the usual preliminary evaluation, which did not show reliable signs of work-related stress, we decided to perform in-depth investigations by means of semi-quantitative methods including both standardized validated questionnaires and personal history, which represents the main source of subjective information from workers. The in-depth investigation showed some critical points -albeit below the alarm threshold- which had not been recorded with the standard preliminary investigation. By means of questionnaires, it was possible to identify each critical area and personalize specific interventions in
order to reduce or, hopefully, eliminate the factors leading to discomfort. In the light of the obtained results, it seems wise to associate an individual in-depth evaluation step (interviews, on-site observations, focus groups, standardized or, when needed, ad hoc questionnaires) to the usual preliminary objective assessment. Indeed, the final goal of a successful evaluation of work-related stress consists in the identification of the best measures aimed to reduce or eliminate risk factors: the efficacy of such measures (organizational or individual) will unavoidably related to a correct and detailed evaluation of the risk factor.