Psychosocial Risks
4. Psychosocial Intervention
4.2. Actions regarding work organisation
After assessing psychosocial factors, it may be considered necessary to apply some kind of measure related to the organisation of work such as the reorganising of tasks (modification of the rhythm, rotation of tasks), organisational measures (regarding autonomy, delegation of responsibilities), ergonomic measures and measures for improving the work environment (temperature, humidity, lighting), modification of the work space and timetable (measures to avoid overcrowding, isolation, providing for breaks), etc.
A number of possible actions is presented next, ordered in increasing capacity to improve working conditions. However, the choice of the most suitable measures to adopt will depend on the type of problem detected and on the characteristics of the organisation and of the post.
- Rotation of tasks: this is a timid modification, as the aim is simply to share out the negative workload among several workers instead of concentrating it in one or just a few people.
- Broadening of tasks: this could be used when starting to apply a staggered strategy of change and consists in horizontally regrouping the tasks of one post, without beginning to redefine them so as to provide them with greater content.
- Enhancing of tasks: this involves a profound change that must be preceded by a modification of the principles of the organisation and consists in introducing variety and content in the tasks of one post, carrying out both horizontal and vertical regrouping. Enhancing a job implies making it more complex and more interesting so that the worker can develop his personal, professional and social capacities.
- Teamwork: teamwork supposes a more human way of organising work as it favours autonomy and participation, with the subsequent influence on job satisfaction.
The way to put teamwork into practice must adapt itself to the characteristics of the organisation, although there are a number of features that are usually present in the majority of cases: small groups (from 10 to 15 people), with shared goals that are clearly defined, group members with interrelated tasks, groups with autonomy to make decisions and control over their time, with their own material resources and with group responsibility (the group is responsible for achieving its goals).
