Every year thousands of people die as a result of occupational accidents or work-related diseases and resulting in millions of deaths every year. According to the International Labour Organisation (ILO), some 2.78 million workers around the world die from fatal occupational accidents and work-related diseases each year, whereas an additional 374 million workers suffer injuries and disabilities caused by non-fatal occupational accidents. No doubt the human cost of this daily adversity is vast. Health and safety at work covers a broad spectrum of topics, from stress and mental health issues to physical injury and adequate protection. Occupational safety and health practices affect the Gross Domestic Product globally every year.
The World Day for Safety and Health at Work is observed on April 28 every year and promotes the prevention of occupational accidents and diseases across the world. The day also serves as a reminder of the importance of employers, employees, and the government in ensuring a safe and healthy workplace. The ILO decides the theme for World Day for Safety and Health at Work every year, and the theme for 2023 is “A safe and healthy working environment as a fundamental principle and right at work”. The day is observed to promote safety and health in the workplace, and to remember those who have died from work-related injury or illness at the workplace.
A strong occupational safety and health system that included meaningful participation of governments, employers, workers, public health actors, and all relevant parties at the national and enterprise level was pivotal in protecting working environments and safeguarding the safety and health of workers. In India, workers are covered under the Workmen’s Compensation Act 1923, which came into force on March 5, 1923. Employees are also covered under the Fatal Accident Act and common law. Through effective social dialogue, governments and social partners actively participate in all phases of the occupational safety and health decision-making processes.
Every day most of the time, people spend in the organisation where they work to earn money. It is important to maintain healthy standards at the workplace so that any kind of mishappening, work-related injury, etc. can be avoided. No doubt, social dialogue not only contributes to improving the policies of occupational safety and health and strategies but also helps build ownership and commitment, which pave the way for their rapid and more effective implementation. Occupational safety is critical in India because it protects workers from harm, increases productivity, lowers healthcare costs, increases regulatory compliance, and boosts employee morale.
However, realising the goals of the ILO declaration will require concerted efforts from all stakeholders. Governments must support the development, implementation and enforcement of appropriate legislation and regulations that promote safe and healthy working conditions. Employers must prioritise the safety and health of their workers and invest in appropriate equipment, training, and protective measures. Workers too must advocate for their rights and also support the employers’ efforts to improve working conditions. Finally, all stakeholders must work together to raise awareness about the importance of safe and healthy working environments and promote a culture of prevention.
