World Day for Safety and Health at Work – 28 April

Why in News?

• 28 April is celebrated as “World Day for Safety and Health at Work”.
• This day is celebrated to promote safe, healthy and dignified working environment for international workers.
• It aims to prevent accidents, diseases and deaths at the workplace.
• This day recognizes the safety and health of workers as a fundamental right.
• Key Theme – 2025: Revolutionizing Health and Safety at Work: Role of AI and Digitalization at Work.

Background:

• This day was started in 2003 by the International Labour Organization (ILO).
  • ILO was founded in 1919 and is a specialized agency of the United Nations.

Relevance in India:

• Many sectors in India (such as construction, mining, factories, agriculture) are considered dangerous for workers.
• Laws such as the Factory Act, 1948, BOCW Act, 1996, and the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020 are enacted to ensure workplace safety.
• The Occupational Safety Code of 2020 consolidates 13 old labour laws.

Challenges:

• Lack of safety standards in the unorganised sector
• Lack of adequate training and safety equipment
• Lack of special safety measures for women at the workplace
• Lack of transparency in reporting and data collection

Solutions and suggestions:

• Regular safety training for employees
• Mandatory use of safety gear (PPE)
• Risk assessment and management at the planning stage
• Monitoring and prompt reporting through digital technology
• Increasing worker participation and strengthening grievance redressal mechanisms