WORK CONDITIONS AND STRESS AMONG EMPLOYEES IN ORGANIZATIONS: IMPLICATIONS FOR PRODUCTIVITY

Abstract

The paper examined work conditions and stress among employees in organizations and their implications for productivity. It observed that work conditions in organizations are the major determinants of productivity level as they are also core sources of stress, especially when an employee performs a boring and monotonous job. The paper delved into various sources of stress and noted that work related stress has serious negative effects on a person's health. It observed also, that it is not good for a person to stay without stress, but should not be at the highest level. A challenging job can make a person to experience eustress which act as a motivator to perform well. The study further observed that poor conditions of work, stress and noisy environment was capable of making workers to become sick. Good working conditions, the paper observed has thé capacity of stimulating workers to higher productivity. The Nigerian environment is full of stress, some of which are man-made. The paper made particular reference to the currency redesign policy of the Nigerian Central Bank which placed everybody on stress due to unavailability of cash in the country. Some recommendations were made among which were that employers should create good working environment for employees and ensure that salaries and allowances are paid as at when due to help in reducing workers stress. It concluded that organizations should cater for the welfare of employees to reduce stress in the work place.