Dear Colleague

WORKPLACE STRESS AND RISK ASSESSMENT

BT are to pilot the use of risk assessment techniques to identify and reduce or eliminate workplace stressors. The initial trial will take place in selected sites in PC Division as set out below. Timescales for the trial have not been finalised but we expect the programme to begin within the next 2-3 weeks.

External experts in the field of work-related stress have identified risk assessment and risk management techniques as the most appropriate mechanisms for eliminating and reducing workplace stressors. The BT Unions have discussed this initiative with the company at national level and are supporting this approach.

The pilot will allow an assessment of different mechanisms for identifying stressors. Thus the pilot could involve discussions at 1:1 interviews, normal team meetings, special team meetings or focus groups. Information may also be obtained from line managers or as part of a separate event.

We see this pilot as a positive initiative by BT in starting to identify and thereby tackle the root causes of stress. We would therefore ask branches to encourage members to participate in the pilot. We have sought assurances on confidentiality and these have been given by the company. In our discussions at national level, we recognise that the relationship between managed and manager can be a key factor. In that context we believe that the information gathering process can be most effective when both managed and manager can have separate discussions with the data gathering team. Branches should take a similar view where they are consulted at a local level.

The outcomes of the pilots will be discussed at national level with the BT Unions. This will include discussions on the types of risks identified as well as the actions proposed to remove/minimise them. Any feedback from branches involved in the pilot will, of course, be very useful in those discussions.

Any queries and feedback should be directed to me. Branches will be informed of the remaining pilot areas as soon as these are finalised.

The pilot areas finalised to date are as follows:

Yours sincerely

AVEEN McHUGH
Assistant Secretary