Psychosocial factors in travel agencies

Abstract

The main aim of this study is to evaluate the psychosocial risk factors present in local travel agencies and their effect on the well-being of workers. In Malta very few studies were carried out in the sector of travel agencies. I hardly came face to face with a study especially one which studies health and safety aspects of the job. This paper aims to evaluate the psychosocial risk factors which are present in local travel agencies. This will lead to a better understanding of the situation and see what results are brought up and how they affect the workers' wellbeing. The word 'stress' is becoming a buzz word which is being utilised for any situation which might have an adverse health effect to a person's mental capability. However, this study will resort to study and test what psychosocial factors are present in travel agencies which can lead to occupational stress and what level of well-being the workers perceive. By identifying these factors one can work out a risk assessment to determine the hazards, harm and risk and put in place control measures to reduce the risk or eliminate them. The psychosocial risk factors which will be tested vary and in fact 13 factors will be tested. These factors were already established and identified by Simon Fraser University. Part of this study delves into which factors are taken into consideration by Maltese travel agency employees. Psychosocial factors as described by the "Health and Safety Executive", as" things that may affect workers' psychological response to their work and workplace conditions". (HSE, 2014). The 13 psychosocial factors tested are organisational culture, clear leadership, civility and respect, psychological job fit, psychological support, growth and development, recognition and reward, involvement and influence, workload management, engagement, balance, psychological protection and protection of physical safety. The study found out that several of these factors affect the workers' wellbeing at the place of work. Earlier studies and common knowledge were confirmed in certain cases; however there were instances where although the level of perception of a psychosocial factor was adequate, still, there was a feeling of low wellbeing levels. Psychological support and psychological protection were the most factors resulting in low level of support which confirmed low level of wellbeing. In all other factors although these factors are highly present in a positive way the overall wellbeing level is still perceived as of low quality. This leads me to suggest for further studies to be carried out to confirm this trend, and to see what other factors rather than psychosocial are demoralising the travel agency industry workers which is resulting in a low level of wellbeing.