Developing a cost-estimation model for work-related stress: An absence-based estimation using data from two Italian case studies

• Main Authors: Simone Russo (Author), Matteo Ronchetti (Author), Cristina Di Tecco (Author), Antonio Valenti (Author), Aditya Jain (Author), Francesco Saverio Mennini (Author), Stavroula Leka (Author), Sergio Iavicoli (Author)
• Format: Book
• Published: Nordic Association of Occupational Safety and Health (NOROSH), 2021-05-01T00:00:00Z.
• Subjects: article
• Online Access: Connect to this object online.
• Notes: 0355-3140; 1795-990X; 10.5271/sjweh.3948
• Keywords: stress; occupational health; mental health; cost-effectiveness; cost benefit; economic evaluation; occupational health; psychosocial risk; cost estimation model; absence; Public aspects of medicine; RA1-1270
• Source: Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment & Health, Vol 47, Iss 4, Pp 318-327 (2021)

OBJECTIVES: This paper discusses the development of a cost-estimation model for work-related stress based on psychosocial risk exposure and absence from work. It presents findings from its implementation and evaluation in two organizations in Italy, using national-level tools developed by the Italian Workers' Compensation Authority (INAIL). It also provides recommendations for the development of similar cost-calculation methods in other countries. METHODS: The cost-estimation model was based on the human capital approach using an indirect cost indicator: loss of productivity due to days of absence attributable to work-related stress. Furthermore, the population attributable fraction (PAF) epidemiological measure was used to calculate the impact of exposure to work-related stress on the basis of data collected through validated tools developed by INAIL and salary cost data. RESULTS: The developed model was implemented and evaluated in two organizations, the first in healthcare (N=1014) and the second in public administration (N=534). In the first case, it was found that absence related to work-related stress cost the organization €445 000. In the second case, the cost was €360 000. CONCLUSIONS: The proposed model provides an example of how organizations can incorporate well-established indicators associated with work-related stress (eg, various types of absence, psychosocial risk perception, loss of productivity on the basis of salary costs) in a practical way in cost estimations of work-related stress. Such cost estimation can be applied in other countries and organizations to establish the economic and business case of managing work-related stress.