World Day For Safety & Health at Work – 28th April 2023
The 28th April marks the International Labour Organisation’s (ILO) World Day for Safety and Health at Work, which aims to promote safe working practices around the world.
First upheld in 2003, the aim of the yearly campaign is to highlight that all workers should be afforded protection from illness, injuries and disease resulting from their occupation. Health and safety is therefore a basic workplace right and no one should risk losing their life when they go to work. This is something that has become increasingly significant since the Covid-19 pandemic, where front line workers have put themselves at additional risk. For example, insufficient personal protective equipment (PPE), an increase in anxiety and depression and greater risk of exposure to infection.
World Day For Safety & Health At Work
Whilst the UK has one of the best health and safety records in the world, there is much more that can be done to keep people safe at work. Therefore, it is important for companies to invest in occupational health and safety to develop safer working environments. The Government are responsible for providing infrastructure, laws and services, which are necessary to ensure that the workforce in their country are safe. This might include national programmes and robust systems of inspection to ensure compliance with health and safety regulation.
However, employers themselves must also identify and assess all potential workplace hazards, including physical, chemical, biological and psychological hazards. This can involve conducting regular inspections, assessments and risk analysis. Then, they should implement any changes that are necessary. They must also provide the appropriate training and resources to ensure that employees are safe at all times. This includes offering mental health resources.
More recently and since the Covid-19 pandemic, an increasing number of us are working from home. This means that as time goes on, there may be emerging new requirements to maintain the wellbeing of employees in these circumstances. This may include addressing the common sources of stress and making sure that workers are using their equipment safely.
Companies must remain vigilant and aware of the latest developments in legislation, invest in continual training and education, and ensure that their employees feel empowered and protected by their policies.
Molly Evans
April 2023