PERCEIVED WORKPLACE SAFETY AND WORKLOAD AS PREDICTORS OF MENTAL HEALTH STATUS AMONG BANKERS

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between perceived workplace safety, workload, and mental health status among bank employees in Ibadan, Nigeria. Using an ex-post facto design and cross-sectional survey method, data was collected from 258 employees across four major bank branches. Mental health status was measured using the DASS scale, while workplace safety and workload were assessed using specialized scales developed by Hayes and colleagues, and Braarud, respectively. The results revealed that workplace safety, particularly job safety, supervisor safety, and management safety, significantly predicted depression, anxiety, and stress levels. Furthermore, workload was found to be a significant predictor of stress. The study concludes that enhancing workplace safety and managing excessive workloads are critical strategies for improving employee mental health in the banking sector. Recommendations for improving mental health in the workplace include enhancing safety protocols, ensuring adequate compensation, and providing robust employee assistance programs. This study highlights the need for banks to prioritize mental health as a crucial component of employee well-being and organizational productivity.