Background and Origin
The World Day for Safety and Health at Work, commemorated since 2003, serves as a reminder of the importance of preventing workplace accidents and occupational diseases. This day originated from a tragic event in 1987 when the L’Ambiance Plaza residential development in Bridgeport, Connecticut, collapsed, resulting in the death of 28 workers. In response, labor unions began advocating for April 28th as the International Day of Remembrance for Workers Killed and Injured.
International Involvement
In 2003, the International Labour Organization (ILO) joined this movement and declared April 28th as the World Day for Safety and Health at Work. This day aims to raise international awareness about workplace safety and health among unions, employer organizations, and government representatives.
Global Impact
According to the ILO and the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 2 million people die annually due to occupational factors, with extended working hours being the most lethal. Former ILO Director-General Guy Ryder emphasized that “more people die because of work than from conflicts in the world.”
Mexico’s Situation
In Mexico, the Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS) reports an average of 1,000 workplace accidents daily. Most occur in low-risk activities, highlighting the ongoing challenge in occupational safety and health.
IMSS data also reveals that 85% of workplace accidents involve unsafe worker actions, such as assuming dangerous positions, misusing tools, failing to secure equipment, operating at unsafe speeds, or not using or improperly using personal protective equipment.
Fundamental Right in the Workplace
In 2022, safety and health at work were recognized as a fundamental right in the workplace alongside other rights like freedom of association, effective collective bargaining recognition, elimination of forced or compulsory labor, abolition of child labor, and eradication of employment discrimination.
New Risks with Technology
Each year, the World Day for Safety and Health at Work focuses on a new challenge. In 2025, the emphasis will be on risks associated with new technologies and workplace digitalization.
The ILO’s global report, “Revolutionizing Safety and Health: The Role of AI and Digitalization in Work,” highlights the benefits of new technologies for labor dynamics and occupational health management. However, it also warns about potential risks, such as social isolation due to reduced worker interaction, increased workloads from algorithmic management, ergonomic issues from improper postures, and inability to take breaks.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the World Day for Safety and Health at Work? It’s an international observance to raise awareness about workplace safety and health, initiated by the International Labour Organization (ILO).
- When is it celebrated? April 28th
- Why is it important? To remember workers who have died or been injured on the job and to promote safety and health in the workplace.
- What challenges does it address? The day focuses on new risks associated with technology and digitalization in the workplace.
- What are some risks highlighted by the ILO? Social isolation, increased workloads, ergonomic issues, and potential for excessive surveillance and automated decision-making.
