Every year on 28 April, the world marks an important occasion: World Day for Safety and Health at Work, also known as "World Day for Safety and Health at Work". This momentous day brings the importance of safe working conditions into the global spotlight and provides an important opportunity to raise awareness of the prevention of occupational accidents and diseases. Initiated by the International Labour Organization (ILO), a specialized agency of the United Nations, this day has a profound and far-reaching significance for workers worldwide. But its significance goes far beyond mere recognition - it is a crucial step towards safer working conditions and a healthier working environment for all. In this article, we explore the origins of this important day, its historical relevance and the urgent need to further advance its goal. 

Where does the World Day for Safety at Work come from?

The World Day for Safety and Health at Work was officially introduced by the International Labour Organization (ILO) in 2002 and first took place in 2003. However, its roots go back to the Canadian "Workers' Memorial Day" in 1984.

Originally initiated by the Canadian Union of Public Employees, this day served to commemorate workers who lost their lives or were injured due to poor working conditions. A year later, in 1985, the labour federation of the Canadian Labour Congress the 28 April as a fixed day of remembrance in the calendarr. This date commemorates the Canadian "Workers Compensation Act of 1914when one of the first authorities for labour and worker protection was established in Canada.

In 1991, the day was officially recognised as the National Day of Mourning by a Canadian parliamentary bill. This important step led to the global recognition and spread of the day of remembrance, starting in the USA in 1989 and later in the UK and other parts of the world.

It was the Hazards Campaign that brought the campaign to the UK in 1992, where it quickly received support from a large number of British trade unions. They coined the slogan "Remember the Dead - Fight for the Living". The British Trades Union Congress and other organisations contributed significantly to the establishment and support. 

In 1996, the International Trade Union Confederation recognised the day and gave it a thematic motto each year to draw attention to specific problems and challenges in working conditions.

It was officially recognised by the ILO as "World Day for Safety and Health at Work" in 2002, and a year later the United Nations recognised the day, leading to its first official observance in 2003.

Goals and importance

Why is the day so important? The World Day for Safety and Health at Work is critical to raising global awareness for the prevention of work-related accidents and diseases. It promotes a culture of safety and health at work by advancing safer and healthier working conditions for all workers worldwide through international cooperation and dialogue.

Despite advances in legislation and technology, many workers continue to be exposed to significant health and safety risks. The ILO estimates that around 6,000 people die every day due to work-related accidents or illnesses. This alarming figure emphasises the urgent need to make workplaces around the world safer.

Campaigns and events on World Day for Safety and Health at Work highlight the various aspects of safe work and motivate people to take measures aimed at significantly reducing the number of work-related deaths and injuries. 

At a time when the world of work is constantly changing, this day provides a crucial platform for sharing best practices, innovations and strategies to improve workplace safety.

At HSE Health and Safety Experts, we are committed to making workplaces safer every day. Join our mission and help us promote a culture of health and safety in the workplace. Together, we can improve working conditions worldwide and protect the well-being of all workers.

FAQs

When is World Day for Safety and Health at Work?

The World Day for Safety and Health at Work, also known as "World Day for Safety and Health at Work", takes place every year on 28 April.

What role does World Day for Safety and Health at Work play?

World Day for Safety and Health at Work plays a crucial role in raising awareness of work-related accidents and diseases. It promotes a culture of safety and health at work and strives for safer working conditions worldwide.

Why is it important to take part in World Day for Safety and Health at Work?

Participation in World Day for Safety and Health at Work is crucial to raise awareness of safe working conditions and promote measures to prevent accidents and illnesses. By actively participating, everyone can help create safer working environments for all workers.