World Day for Safety and Health at Work

World Day for Safety and Health at Work History

World Day for Safety and Health at Work aims to raise awareness about the importance of creating a safe and healthy work environment. This observance is crucial, as injuries, diseases, and deaths at the workplace have disastrous consequences for workers, their families, and economies. It advocates for the application of a "Prevention Culture," in which right to a safe and healthy working environment is respected at all levels.

The origin of the World Day for Safety and Health at Work goes back to 2003, it was established by the International Labor Organization (ILO). There is a high relevance of this observance for people in America. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2019, over 2.8 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses were reported by private industry employers. It is evident that achieving a safe and healthy work environment is an ongoing challenge. It underlines the importance of adherence to safety and health practices, as well as comprehensive occupational health and safety programs.

In the United States, the World Day for Safety and Health at Work is marked by events and activities that are intended to promote safer, healthier work. These range from educational sessions, safety drills, workers memorial events, health fairs, and conferences. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), for instance, plays a key role in organizing these events. World Day for Safety and Health at Work is observed on 28th April each year, serving as a timely reminder to American workers, employers, and the public about the importance of a safe and healthful workplace.

Facts about World Day for Safety and Health at Work

• An estimate by the ILO indicates that work-related accidents and diseases are responsible for more than 2.3 million fatalities per year.
• According to Liberty Mutual, in 2022, the top three causes of disabling workplace injuries in the U.S. come from handling heavy objects, slipping, and being struck by an object or equipment.
• About 841 homicides were attributed to workplace violence in the US in 2020.
• According to AFL-CIO, in the US, construction jobs accounted for the most work-related deaths that occurred in 2022.

In the News and Trending in the US for World Day for Safety and Health at Work

Top things to do in the US for this observance

• Learn the fire exits and emergency exits around your workplace. Having knowledge of the escapes can aid you in case of an emergency.
• Watch the UN'S video on occupational safety and health tips for workplaces.
• Learn how to make your workplace safer. The AFL-CIO has several tips on how to communicate with co-workers and identify potential workplace hazards.