An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure – Benjamin Franklin

World Day for Safety and Health at Work is observed on 28 April and brings light to the prevention of occupational accidents and diseases globally. As workers we are responsible to work safely and to protect ourselves and not to endanger others, to know our rights and to participate in the implementation of preventive measures. The main objective to observe this day is to get global attention on the expanse of the problem and to promote safe and healthy work culture in order to reduce work-related deaths and injuries. Each of us is responsible for stopping deaths and injuries on the job.

History of World Day for Safety and Health at Work

In 2003, the International Labor Organization (ILO), began to observe World Day for Safety and Health at Work in order to stress the prevention of accidents and diseases at work. The celebration is an integral part of the Global Strategy on Occupational Safety and Health of the International Labor Organization (ILO).

The World Day for Safety and Health at Work is to raise awareness on how to make workplace safe and healthy for the employers by ensuring freedom, equity, security and human dignity at the workplace.

We have learned from past crisis that workplaces can be of vital importance to prevent and control outbreaks. Adequate safety and health measures at work can play a crucial role in containing the spread of the disease, while protecting workers and society at large. April 28 is also observed as the International Commemoration Day for Dead and Injured Workers which is being organized worldwide by the trade union movement since 1996.

Here are some tips to help make your workplace safe.

1. Understand the risks.
2. Reduce workplace stress. 
3. Take regular breaks.
4. Protect your back. 
5. Wear protective equipment to suit the task.
6. Stay sober.
7. Know your rights

The ILO estimates that some 2.3 million women and men around the world succumb to work-related accidents or diseases every year; this corresponds to over 6000 deaths every single day. Worldwide, there are around 340 million occupational accidents and 160 million victims of work-related illnesses annually. The ILO updates these estimates at intervals, and the updates indicate an increase of accidents and ill health