Staff around the University will have heard of the shocking death of one of Kingston’s support technicians. Only in his very early fifties, he died after a heart attack at home. According to his colleagues, he was under severe stress from the amount of work the technicians now have to bear since their number has been cut. Despite feeling ill at work, he even delayed going to the doctor because he wanted to complete the work he was doing.
We cannot say whether this stress contributed to his death, but stress can indirectly increase the risk of heart attack. And this blog understands that he was also very worried about the impending process in which the technicians have in effect to reapply for their jobs, another of the efficiency drives placing all staff under great stress.
High stress is bad for everyone. No one should have to suffer ill health, let alone risk their lives for a job. We should all bear this in mind as we cope with the rising workload imposed on us. Management in particular should take note.