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 highlights and promotes the prevention of occupational accidents and diseases. The day seeks to improve safety and health in the workplace globally. This critical day draws attention to the importance of setting up a systematic framework for ensuring workers' safety, the delivery of adequate training, and the necessity for ongoing assessments to detect potential work-related risks.

The origins of World Day for Safety and Health at Work date back to 2003 when it was initiated by the International Labour Organization (ILO). In Australia, this observance holds great significance due to the nation's diverse range of industries and occupations, all of which come with their own unique set of possible health and safety risks. Australia's focus on this day often concentrates on industries with higher occupational risk factors, including construction, agriculture, mining, and manufacturing.

World Day for Safety and Health at Work in Australia often involves a variety of activities to promote workplace safety and health. Trade unions, employers, occupational health professionals, and regulators organise workshops, seminars, and exhibitions aimed at raising awareness and promoting practical solutions. The day is marked by encouraging conversations about safety, updating staff on new laws and procedures, sharing resources, and emphasising the importance of proper health and safety training in the workplace. World Day for Safety and Health at Work is observed each year on April 28th.

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.
• In Australia, stress and poor mental health have been recognized as major issues affecting employees, leading to illnesses, drop in productivity, and resignations. The Australian government is increasingly emphasizing the importance of psychological health at work.
• Both physical and verbal harassment are considered violations of work health and safety laws in Australia.

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

Top things to do in Australia 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.
• Attend safety and health seminars and workshops organized by industry associations and trade unions.
• Visit public events like safety fairs, health and fitness expos, and community outreach programs.