Wait a minute, that’s not the right lyric, is it? But it may be a more realistic sentiment for your workers. Millions of Americans experience increased stress levels around the holidays. Stress is not only a health risk; it’s also a safety risk. Stressed-out workers are more likely to have accidents.
Along with the decorations, shopping, and celebrations during the holiday season comes a heightened concern for safety. All the activities, partying, driving, and stress at this time of year can increase the risk of accidents. So although OSHA doesn’t require it, providing holiday safety-awareness training would certainly be an excellent idea.
With all the hubbub during the holidays, some of your workers might be distracted on the job. They might be thinking about holiday plans and preparations instead of focusing on their work, and that could lead to carelessness and accidents. Other employees might not be getting as much sleep as usual, what with parties, shopping, and other after-work holiday activities. This means they might come to work tired, or even a little hung over, and that could be dangerous, too.
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Be on guard during the holiday season by practicing a little extra supervision and giving additional safety reminders. Here are some simple ways your employees can manage holiday stress and still keep safe and enjoy the season:
- Plan. The earlier they make arrangements for parties, presents, travel, and so on, the less pressure they’ll feel.
- Scale back. Cut back on or eliminate one stressful part of the holiday season. They don’t have to do it all!
- Ask, don’t guess. Ask people what they want for presents. Think of all the time and effort they’ll save—and they’ll be able to give just the right thing.
- Don’t skip meals. Getting proper nutrition when they’re on the run is essential for avoiding headaches and keeping their energy up.
- Stick to normal sleeping and waking times. Lack of sleep can add to stress and tension.
- Drink in moderation. Sip alcoholic beverages slowly. Alternate nonalcoholic beverages, such as soda or water, with alcohol.
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‘Tis the season to enjoy family, friends, and festivities while maintaining a stress-free lifestyle at home and at work.
Why It Matters
- Stress reportedly costs American businesses more than $300 billion per year in terms of poor performance, absenteeism, and healthcare costs.
- Holidays, with more activities and responsibilities, add stress to workers’ lives.
- Keep costs from stress down by giving workers stress-management tips.
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