The International Labor Organization (ILO) celebrates World Day for Safety and Health at Work on 28 April to promote the prevention of occupational accidents and diseases worldwide. Also, April 28 is the date chosen by the global trade union movement to pay tribute to the victims of occupational accidents and diseases.

The ILO aims to raise global awareness of the magnitude and consequences of work-related accidents, injuries and diseases by placing workers’ health and safety at the top of international agendas and supporting action at all levels.

Faced with the global crisis of COVID-19 at the global level and its repercussions, the ILO reiterates its concern about the risks of the transmission of the virus, especially in work areas. The COVID-19 pandemic has led governments, employers, workers, and the general population to face unprecedented challenges in relation to the virus and the many effects it has had on the world of work.

World Day for Safety and Health at Work 2021 will focus on strategies to strengthen national occupational safety and health (OSH) systems to build resilience, in order to face crises now and in the future, drawing on lessons learned and experiences from the world of work.

During the last year, there has been a reorientation towards new work modalities, in search of protecting workers from COVID-19. The widespread reliance on teleworking, have presented many opportunities for workers but also posed potential OSH risks, including psychosocial risks and violence in particular.

The ILO will take this opportunity to raise awareness and stimulate dialogue on the importance of creating and investing in resilient OSH systems, drawing on both regional and country examples in mitigating and preventing the Spread of COVID-19 at the workplace, and combat the other associated risks.

If you want more information about the events and activities organized by the ILO in the campaign ANTICIPATE, PREPARE AND RESPOND TO CRISIS – INVEST NOW IN RESILIENT OSH SYSTEMS, click on the link below.

Source: International Labor Organization (ILO)