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

Di Tecco, Cristina; Russo, Simone; Ronchetti, Matteo; Tecco, Cristina; Valenti, Antonio; Jain, Aditya; Mennini, Francesco Saverio; Leka, Stavroula; Iavicoli, Sergio

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


Authors

Cristina Di Tecco

Simone Russo

Matteo Ronchetti

Cristina Tecco

Antonio Valenti

ADITYA JAIN ADITYA.JAIN@NOTTINGHAM.AC.UK
Professor of Sustainable Work and Development

Francesco Saverio Mennini

Stavroula Leka

Sergio Iavicoli



Abstract

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.

Citation

Di Tecco, C., Russo, S., Ronchetti, M., Tecco, C., Valenti, A., Jain, A., …Iavicoli, S. (2021). Developing a cost-estimation model for work-related stress: An absence-based estimation using data from two Italian case studies. Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, 47(4), 318-327. https://doi.org/10.5271/sjweh.3948

Journal Article Type Article
Acceptance Date Feb 2, 2021
Online Publication Date Feb 17, 2021
Publication Date May 1, 2021
Deposit Date Jul 20, 2021
Publicly Available Date Jul 20, 2021
Journal Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment & Health
Print ISSN 0355-3140
Electronic ISSN 1795-990X
Publisher Nordic Association of Occupational Safety and Health
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 47
Issue 4
Pages 318-327
DOI https://doi.org/10.5271/sjweh.3948
Public URL https://nottingham-repository.worktribe.com/output/5808341
Publisher URL https://www.sjweh.fi/show_abstract.phpAabstract_id=3948