About the Hazards
Psychosocial hazards are aspects of work that can harm mental health and wellbeing.
They relate to how work is organised, supported and experienced.
Managing these risks is essential for creating a safe workplace.
The 17 hazards identified in Safework's Model Code of Practice represent key areas where poor work practices or environments can lead to stress, burnout or harm.
Each hazard requires active assessment and control, just as any other workplace risk would.
The 17 Psychosocial Hazards in the workplace
Job Demands
Job Demands
Excessive workloads, time pressure, and unrealistic performance expectations can lead to stress, burnout, and mental health issues.
Low job control
Low Job Control
Limited autonomy over how tasks are performed can cause frustration, disengagement, and increased stress.
Lack of role clarity
Lack of role clarity
Unclear job expectations and responsibilities can create confusion, anxiety, and workplace conflict.
Poor organisational change management
Poor organisational change management
Unclear job expectations and responsibilities can create confusion, anxiety, and workplace conflict.
Inadequate reward & recognition
Inadequate reward & recognition
A lack of appreciation, financial incentives, or career growth opportunities can decrease motivation and job satisfaction.
Traumatic events or material
Traumatic events or material
Exposure to distressing situations, such as workplace violence or dealing with traumatic content, can negatively impact mental health.
Remote or isolated work
Remote or isolated work
Working alone or in remote locations can increase loneliness, stress, and reduce access to support systems.
Aggression & violence
Aggression & violence
Verbal abuse, threats, or physical harm from colleagues, clients, or the public can lead to fear, stress, and absenteeism.
Job insecurity
Job insecurity
Uncertainty about job stability or potential layoffs can cause anxiety and reduce overall job performance.
Harassment (including sexual harassment)
Harassment (including sexual harassment)
Unwanted or inappropriate behavior, such as bullying or sexual advances, can create a hostile and unsafe work environment.
Conflict, poor workplace interactions
Conflict, poor workplace interactions
Toxic workplace relationships, unresolved disputes, and a lack of teamwork can create stress and dissatisfaction.
Intrusive surveillance
Intrusive surveillance
Excessive monitoring or lack of privacy at work can cause stress, anxiety, and feelings of distrust.
Bullying
Bullying
Repeated, unreasonable behavior intended to intimidate or undermine an employee can lead to psychological distress and a toxic work culture.
Poor organisational justice
Poor organisational justice
Excessive workloads, time pressure, and unrealistic performance expectations can lead to stress, burnout, and mental health issues.
Poor physical environment
Poor physical environment
Unsafe, uncomfortable, or poorly designed workspaces can contribute to physical and psychological discomfort.
Poor support
Poor support
Excessive workloads, time pressure, and unrealistic performance expectations can lead to stress, burnout, and mental health issues.
Fatigue
Fatigue
Long hours, shift work, or inadequate rest can impair concentration, productivity, and increase the risk of accidents.