All employers wish to maximise their staff efficiency.
Unfortunately, present day demands on businesses lead to increasing pressure upon staff at all levels. The effects of stress can substantially reduce efficiency and accuracy not only in the performing of physical tasks, but also in the area of abstract planning, decision-making and creativity. Prolonged stress can lead to tiredness and irritability, a weakening of the immune system and the development of physical illness. The head of the Civil Service Occupational Health Service has warned employers that they could face a spate of legal claims for stress-related conditions, unless they act swiftly to defuse stressful work environments. Some countries overseas, notably Denmark, have been addressing this problem for a number of years.