Control Stress to Work Safely

WORKPLACE STRESS T1910-02©2009 Bongarde

WHAT’S AT STAKE• Stress• Natural part of life• Can cause health

problems• Affect your ability to work

safely• Situations that cause fear

WHAT’S THE DANGERPhysical symptoms

• Headaches• Digestive upsets• Muscle tension• Sweating• Shaking• Heart irregularities• Fatigue• Other discomforts

WHAT’S THE DANGER• Emotional and mental symptoms:

• Nervousness• Depression• Confusion• Inability to concentrate• Mood swings• Anger

• Long-term stress• Heart disease, cancer and ulcers

EXAMPLE• Certain behaviors• Too much stress• Excessive eating, drinking,

smoking or drug use• Recklessness in driving

and work activities

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF• Manage your time• Avoid last-minute deadline

pressures• Delegate some responsibilities• First things first• Complete your work in order of

priority

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF• Talk things over• Letting off steam• Come up with some

solutions• Focus on solutions• Find ways to fix it

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF• Stress reduction skills• Deep breathing• Progressive relaxation• Meditation• Regular exercise• Exercise is relaxing• Can help you handle

stressful events better

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF• Eat regular balanced meals• Don’t overdo the caffeine• Take it easy on sugar• Get enough sleep• Take time to relax• Develop some interests• Recreational activity

Final Word

What does all this have to do with safety?It is important to reduce stress so that you can concentrate on doing your job well and safely.

Injuries occur when people aredistracted by stress.