Seasonal stress considerations in warehouse settings

As Black Friday and the festive season approach, warehouse operatives face intense pressure to meet increased demand nationwide. High quotas, repetitive tasks, and cramped workspaces can quickly lead to stress, fatigue, and even injury. Addressing these challenges is important to maintaining wellbeing and fostering a positive health and safety culture.

As part of National Stress Week, the HSE emphasised employers’ responsibilities to proactively manage stress. With this in mind, we are focusing this blog on managing stress during peaks, with a focus on the run up to the holidays.

What causes stress?

Work-related stress in warehousing environments can stem from increased targets, long shifts, and a lack of adequate breaks. Physical strain from repetitive movements and poor workstation ergonomics adds to mental pressure, while limited communication can leave employees feeling unsupported. Alongside work-related stress, external pressures (e.g. financial stress, family pressures, seasonal illnesses) can also build up in this period, adding to workers’ stress levels.

How can stress be managed in these peaks?

• Shift planning and fair rotas: Ensure there is adequate cover for shifts in busy periods. During periods of high activity, planning cover for absences due to illness will help alleviate additional strain due to reduced manpower
• Consider seasonal support: Consider hiring temporary workers to support the increased demand. Appropriate health and safety provision (e.g. training, inductions etc.) should be in place for all seasonal / temporary workers.
• Micro-breaks and job rotation: Short pauses help reduce physical strain and mental fatigue, improving focus and reducing errors. Even in high-pressure situations, ensure people are able to step away from their work and take time to rest between tasks
• Good leadership: Ensure clear communication on targets at the start of each shift and remember that safety comes first. Listen to any concerns from your team, and ensure steps are taken to resolve these, avoiding further stressors

Mental wellbeing

Beyond operational management, investment in wellbeing initiatives can have a positive impact during work peaks.

A proactive approach to mental health not only safeguards workers but also enhances efficiency during the busiest time of year. Reducing stressors and supporting people appropriately can help prevent bigger issues.

Ensuring your business has a provision for mental health support (e.g. management support, access to mental health support, mental health first aiders or ambassadors) can ensure that suitable support is available when stress levels rise.

Conclusion

The holidays are a busy time for many industries, but this shouldn’t come at the cost of worker wellbeing. By planning ahead, reinforcing training and providing the right support structures, companies can continue to develop a good health and safety culture.

If you would like a free Toolbox talk on stress, please contact enquiries@lrbconsulting.co.uk