Commit to change – one workplace injury, illness, or death is too many
No one signs up for a job expecting to be hurt, ill, or killed. Sadly, this isn’t always how a workday plays out.
Worldwide, the International Labour Organization records more than 2.2 million work-related deaths each year.1 In 2007 alone, close to one million Canadian men and women suffered an injury on the job; over 1,000 were hurt so severely, they never made it home.2
On April 28, workplace health and safety demands international attention. In Canada, April 28 is recognized as National Day of Mourning; internationally, we celebrate the World Day for Safety and Health at Work. Both acknowledge workers whose lives have been impacted by a workplace injury, illness, or fatality and send a strong message that one is one too many.
People dying, becoming injured or ill at work, is morally, socially, and economically unacceptable. During these challenging economic times, we must be more vigilant than ever in our efforts towards safer and healthier workplaces. The costs of an injury, illness, or death extend far beyond the individuals affected and directly impact our economy. And today, with the economic downturn that we are all experiencing, we know that employee stress levels are on the rise, and as a result, there is a potential for an increase in workplace injuries. Prevention is just as important now as it always has been. We need to continue to protect our workers, especially during these difficult times.
Work-related injuries and illness can be prevented. Work-related fatalities need to be eliminated.
Preventing workplace injuries and illness must be a collaborative effort. The health and safety of employees is everyone’s responsibility. Employers must make a strong, organizational commitment to a safer and healthier work environment and protect their biggest asset – their people. They must operate an effective health and safety program that involves health and safety training and proper equipment, as well as provide staff an opportunity to ask questions and propose solutions. Employees must understand their right to refuse unsafe work and become active participants in improving and maintaining the safety of themselves and their fellow workers.
Together, we can achieve safer and healthier places to work; zero injuries, disease, and death can be a reality. Use today to reflect on what you are doing to maintain a safe and healthy workplace. Commit to a safer workplace for yourself and others. Help ensure all Canadians arrive home safely from their jobs.