The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the workplace dangers faced by key workers who need far greater protection to do their jobs safely, the International Labour Organization (ILO) said on Tuesday.
A new report by the ILO, released to mark World Day for Safety and Health at Work, found that 7,000 health workers have died since the outbreak of the crisis, while 136 million health and social care workers are at risk of contracting COVID-19 through work.
The document, Anticipate, prepare and respond to crises. Invest now in resilient OSH (Occupation Safety and Health) systems, looks at how countries can minimize the risks for everyone in the workplace, in the event of future health emergencies.
It also highlights the mental health pressures associated with the pandemic: one in five healthcare workers globally, has reported depression and anxiety symptoms.
This World Day for Safety and Health at Work, let’s draw on lessons learned and experiences from the #worldofwork to strengthen & build resilient national occupational safety and health (OSH) systems during and post the #COVID19 crisis.