World Day for Safety and Health at Work

World Day for Safety and Health at Work focuses on promoting safe, healthy, and decent work worldwide. It is a global event spearheaded by the International Labour Organization (ILO) – an agency of the United Nations. The Day draws attention to the collective and individual responsibility of governments, employers, and workers to maintain and improve occupational safety and health. It advocates for the prevention of occupational accidents and diseases, emphasizes the role of OH (occupational health) systems, and highlights the importance of a healthy work culture in promoting the wellbeing of the working population.

The origin of World Day for Safety and Health at Work traces back to 2003 when the ILO initiated a global strategy to improve occupational health and safety. For Canadians, the Day typically holds additional significance as it is observed concurrently with the National Day of Mourning, honoring workers who lost their lives from work-related accidents and diseases. Employers and workers in Canada, therefore, equally participate in taking preventive steps to avoid accidents, for the promotion of wellbeing at work. They aim to contribute to the reduction of occupational injuries and diseases, as per the global goal set by the ILO.

In Canada, World Day for Safety and Health at Work is observed in various ways. Organizations, employer groups, and trade unions engage in numerous activities such as workplace safety demonstrations, promotional campaigns, discussions, and training on health and safety. It provides an opportunity to reinforce the critical role safety plays in preventing mishaps and enhancing productivity at work. The World Day for Safety and Health at Work observations in Canada coincide with the country's National Day of Mourning observed annually on April 28, underpinning the serious commitment Canada has to fostering a safe and healthy workplace environment for all.