It was a busy time at Emilio’s agri business, and Sally noticed that one of his employees, Barry, appeared to be under considerable pressure.
“You should check in with him,” Sally suggested. “If an employee is struggling, you need to take those concerns seriously. Workplace stress can become an employment issue, particularly if an employer is aware that an employee’s health may be affected.”
Employers have obligations to provide a safe and healthy workplace. While they are not expected to diagnose or treat medical conditions, they should not ignore signs that an employee may be struggling.
Where health concerns arise, an employer should listen to the employee, consider whether any support or workplace adjustments may be appropriate, and seek professional advice where necessary.
The key is to address concerns early. Ignoring signs of workplace stress or failing to respond appropriately could create greater problems for both the employee and the employer.
If you are unsure how to handle a situation involving an employee’s health or wellbeing, it is important to seek employment advice before taking action.