World Day for Safety and Health at Work – Dr. Virendra Singh
The 2023 World Day for Workplace Safety and Health will be observed on April 28, 2023, and will focus on the theme of “a safe and healthy working environment as a fundamental principle and right at work”. Every year on April 28, the International Day for Occupational Safety and Health is observed to encourage global prevention of industrial accidents and diseases.
It is a public awareness campaign aimed at drawing international attention to the size of the problem and how encouraging and fostering a safety and health culture can help reduce the number of work-related deaths and injuries.
The International Labour Organization (ILO) began observing World Day in 2003 to emphasize the avoidance of workplace accidents and diseases, leveraging the ILO’s traditional strengths of tripartism and social discourse.
History of World Day for Workplace Safety and Health
The International Labour Organization (ILO) first observed World Day in 2003 in order to avoid workplace accidents and infections.
The day also coincides with the International Day of Remembrance for the Fallen and Injured Workers, which has been observed by the labor movement since 1996.
Prevention of occupational accidents and diseases
- Occupational accidents and diseases can have a significant impact on workers, their families, and the workplace. Prevention of such accidents and diseases is crucial to ensuring safe and healthy working conditions for all workers.
- Employers have a legal and ethical responsibility to ensure the safety and health of their employees in the workplace. This includes providing proper training, equipment, and resources to prevent accidents and diseases.
- Risk assessment is a critical part of preventing occupational accidents and diseases. Employers must identify potential hazards in the workplace and take measures to eliminate or control those hazards.
- The use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is another essential component of preventing occupational accidents and diseases. PPE includes items such as gloves, safety glasses, and respiratory protection and can help protect workers from exposure to harmful substances and environments.
- Education and training of workers are also crucial in preventing occupational accidents and diseases. Workers must be aware of the risks in their work environment and how to properly use equipment and follow safety procedures to prevent accidents and diseases.
Emerging risks at work
Emerging and novel occupational hazards can arise due to technological advancements or changes in social or organizational practices, which may include:
- The introduction of new technologies and production processes, such as nanotechnology and biotechnology.
- Changes in working conditions, such as increased workloads, intensified work due to downsizing, poor conditions associated with work-related migration, and jobs in the informal economy.
- The rise of new forms of employment, including self-employment, outsourcing, and temporary contracts.
Better scientific understanding can contribute to wider recognition of workplace risks, such as the correlation between ergonomic factors and musculoskeletal disorders. Similarly, changes in perceptions about the significance of certain risk factors, such as the influence of psychosocial factors on work-related stress, can also impact their recognition.
Timeline for Global Safety and Health at Work
- 1919 (The body to look into labor issues): As part of the Treaty of Versailles, which ends World War I, the International Labour Organization (ILO) is established.
- 1996 (A day to remember injured workers): The trade movement established an International Memorial Day for Dead and Wounded Workers.
- 2019 (The labor organization’s 100th anniversary): The ILO is celebrating its centennial year and working to improve workplace safety.
- 2022 (The annual gathering for workers): The International Day for Occupational Safety and Health is honored with a Global Webinar that encourages social debate.
World Safety and Health at Work Timeline – April 28
How is The World Day for Workplace Safety and Health observed?
On April 28, many organizations such as the UN, ILO, communities, government entities, and individuals, concerned with workplace safety and health came together to promote an international campaign known as the International Day of Workplace Safety and Health. Every year, the United Nations publishes an event calendar.
Also, community leaders and organizational representatives support the day by speaking out on concerns such as workplace health and safety measures, among others. Workplace health and safety programs are broadcast. “We need particular measures to protect the millions of healthcare workers and other personnel who put their health at risk every day for us,” says Guy Ryder, Director-General of the International Labour Organization.
Why we Appreciate World Safety and Health Day at Work
- We get to learn – There is a lot to learn and consider when it comes to workplace safety and health. Recognizing workplace dangers that cause injuries is a smart place to start.
- It’s universal – Unsafe workplaces are dangerous and thus undesirable. Safety and health are forms of social justice that every employee in the workplace is entitled to.
- We get to practice – This national holiday serves as a reminder to embrace safe workplace practices. The ILO not only teaches us the necessity of a safe workplace, but it also stresses the need for us to use safety precautions in our daily activities.
5 Facts about World Day for Safety and Health at Work
- The World Day for Safety and Health at Work is observed every year on April 28th. It is an annual international campaign to promote safe, healthy, and decent working conditions.
- The International Labour Organization (ILO) initiated the observance of this day in 2003. The theme for the World Day for Safety and Health at Work 2022 is “Anticipate, prepare and respond to crises – Invest Now in Resilient Occupational Safety and Health Systems.”
- The day aims to raise awareness about occupational safety and health issues and the importance of preventing work-related injuries and illnesses. It also aims to promote the rights of workers to safe and healthy working conditions.
- The World Day for Safety and Health at Work is observed by governments, employers, workers, and other stakeholders in more than 150 countries worldwide. Activities to mark the day include seminars, workshops, exhibitions, and other events aimed at raising awareness about the importance of occupational safety and health.
- According to the International Labour Organization, every year, around 2.78 million workers die as a result of work-related accidents and diseases. Additionally, there are around 374 million non-fatal work-related injuries and illnesses globally each year. The World Day for Safety and Health at Work aims to reduce these numbers and create safer and healthier workplaces for all.
Video: World Day for Safety and Health at Work
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is World Day for Safety and Health at Work?
World Day for Safety and Health at Work is an international campaign aimed at promoting safe, healthy, and sustainable work environments.
2. When is World Day for Safety and Health at Work?
World Day for Safety and Health at Work is observed on April 28th every year.
3. Why is World Day for Safety and Health at Work important?
World Day for Safety and Health at Work is important because it raises awareness about the importance of safe and healthy working conditions, and helps prevent accidents, injuries, and deaths in the workplace.
4. Who observes World Day for Safety and Health at Work?
World Day for Safety and Health at Work is observed by governments, employers, workers, and other stakeholders around the world.
5. How can I get involved in World Day for Safety and Health at Work?
You can get involved in World Day for Safety and Health at Work by organizing or participating in events and activities that promote workplace safety and health, sharing information and resources about workplace safety and health, and advocating for better working conditions.
