When mental strain leads to safety risks: the forgotten side of PSA

23 September 2025

In many organisations, psychosocial workload (PSA) and physical safety are still treated as separate issues. While PSA concerns workload, undesirable behaviour and stress in the workplace, physical safety is all about preventing accidents and complying with safety protocols. However, recent literature reviews by the RIVM (National Institute for Public Health and the Environment) show that these two domains are more closely intertwined in practice than you might initially think.

How mental strain can lead to unsafe behaviour

The study shows that PSA factors such as time pressure, emotionally demanding work and undesirable behaviour by colleagues or managers are directly linked to dangerous behaviour and accidents at work. For example employees who are under high pressure and therefore deliberately skip safety protocols at times in order to finish their work more quickly. In addition, stress and emotional strain can lead to fatigue and reduced alertness, making it more difficult to assess risks.

Social factors also play a role. Employees sometimes are afraid to report unsafe situations for fear of repercussions from colleagues or managers. This is in line with findings from Dutch studies, which show that undesirable behaviour – such as bullying, violence or sexual harassment – is a major cause of accidents at work.

A vicious cycle of strain and risk

The interaction between mental and physical strain is often subtle, but it has a major impact. Unsafe working conditions can cause stress, which in turn leads to reduced concentration and an increased risk of errors. Take, for instance, an employee who is constantly worried about the risk of an incident, or who works in a team where reports are ignored. This creates a vicious circle where PSA and physical risks reinforce each other.

Signs indicating combined strain

It is important for managers to be alert to signs that indicate combined strain. These include, for example:

Decreased alertness and concentration
Withdrawal behaviour or avoidance of certain tasks
Failure to report incidents or risks

The RIVM highlights the importance of awareness among managers and safety professionals. A comprehensive approach is required. The focus needs to be not only on physical risks, but also on the underlying mental strain.

More and more organisations are therefore opting for a broader risk inventory and evaluation (RI&E), which also takes psychosocial factors into account, as required by law. An open reporting culture and well-trained managers are crucial in this regard. They can recognise signs of mental strain and encourage safe behaviour.

Working together to create a safe working culture

Strengthening the working culture requires more than just protocols. Cultural surveys, team coaching and targeted interventions can help to address tensions and improve cooperation. HumanCapitalCare can support organisations in this process, with its expertise at the crossroads of mental and physical safety. By recognising mental stress as a safety risk, organisations are taking a crucial step towards a healthier and safer work environment.