What is World Day for Safety and Health at Work?

Health and safety are among the most crucial factors in providing a safe and well-maintained working environment. They work hand-in-hand with promoting a positive place of work. However, there are still reports of occupational safety and health risks which endanger the lives of many and put employers in a challenging position.

In this blog, we will discuss about World Day for Safety and Health at Work. We will also cover why it matters and outline the benefits of adequate health and safety procedures at work.

What is World Day for Safety and Health at Work?

World Day for Safety and Health at Work is celebrated each year on the 28th of April. It was initiated to raise awareness, promote and discuss the importance of a safe and healthy work environment.

Observing World Day since 2003 has been the International Labour Organisation's way of harmonising its tripartism and social dialogue traditions. It also emphasises the prevention of accidents and diseases at work.

What is the theme for this year?

This year, World Day for Safety and Health at Work will focus on strategies to strengthen national occupational safety and health (OSH) systems to build resilience to face crises now and in the future, drawing on lessons learnt and experiences from the world of work (ILO, 2023).

Health and safety statistics

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) report shows that:

• In Great Britain, 1.8 million working people suffer from work-related illnesses, of which:
• 914,000 workers suffer from work-related stress, depression or anxiety
• 477,000 workers suffer from a work-related musculoskeletal disorder
• 123,000 workers suffer from COVID-19, which they believe may have been caused by exposure to coronavirus at work.
• 2,544 mesothelioma deaths due to past asbestos exposures (2020)
• 123 workers killed in work-related accidents
• According to the Labour Force Survey, 565,000 working people sustained an injury at work
• 61,713 injuries to employees reported under RIDDOR
• 36.8 million working days lost due to work-related illness and workplace injury
• £18.8 billion estimated cost of injuries and ill-health from current working conditions (2019/20).

Health and safety procedures at work

Conducting a proper risk assessment is vital to ensure that you are able to put in place health and safety procedures at your place of work. As a starting point, the HSE recommends businesses to consider the following procedures:

• Develop a health and safety policy
• Workplace risk assessment and management
• Report work-related accidents and illness
• Provide information and adequate training
• Worker consultations
• Appropriate workplace facilities
• First aid at work
• Display the law poster
• Appoint a competent person.

Benefits of workplace health and safety procedures

Failing to address health and safety issues in the workplace can cause millions of working days lost due to work-related injuries and avoidable occupational diseases.

As employers, it is vital to address health and safety concerns appropriately. It should not be seen as a regulatory burden as it offers many benefits, including:

• Reduced employee absences and turnover
• Reduced risks of avoidable harm and work-related accidents
• Reduced costs and legal threats
• Investors, customers, and communities have a better perception of corporate responsibility
• Productivity enhancements and high team morale.

Conclusion

The Mandatory Training Group supports World Day for Safety and Health at Work 2023. We offer CPD-accredited health and safety courses and training programmes to empower organisations to prevent and identify avoidable harm and diseases in the workplace, provide a safe work environment, and improve efficiency and team productivity.

Click here to see online courses and resources that will help you manage and promote workplace health and safety effectively.

About the Mandatory Training Group

The Mandatory Training Group is one of the leading UK providers of CPDUK-accredited statutory and mandatory training, continuing professional development (CPD) courses, eLearning software and workforce development solutions for all sectors.

By making things simple and designing interactive e-learning content, we can provide meaningful training programs at all levels and enhance the capacity and resilience of individuals and organisations.

Click here to see our wide range of accredited mental health courses and training programmes.

References and resources

Health and Safety Executive (2023) - Health and safety basics for your business.
Health and Safety Executive (2023) - Health and safety statistics.
International Labour Organisation (2023) - World Day for Safety and Health at Work 2023.

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