By Viboon Sithimolada, 20 April 2023;
In June 2022, the International Labour Conference (ILC) made a historic decision to include “a safe and healthy working environment” as a fundamental principle and right at work in the framework of the International Labour Organization (ILO). This decision reaffirms the ILO’s commitment to promoting safe and healthy working conditions for all workers around the world.
To celebrate this decision, ILO will be bringing together experts and stakeholders to discuss the implications of this right for the world of work and practical ways to implement it, on the occasion of the World Day for Safety and Health at Work on April 28, 2023. The event will also be expected to present the findings of research on the implementation status of various provisions of the fundamental Conventions No. 155 and No. 187.
Ensuring a safe and healthy working environment is crucial, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic has had a profound impact on the world of work, highlighting the need for stronger and more effective measures to protect workers’ health and safety. In Laos, for example, the pandemic has had a significant impact on the workforce, with many workers facing heightened risks of infection due to inadequate health and safety measures.
To address these challenges, the ILO has been working closely with the government of Laos to strengthen occupational safety and health (OSH) systems and promote safer and healthier working conditions. The ILO has provided technical assistance and support to improve the regulatory framework for OSH, enhance the capacity of employers and workers to manage OSH risks, and promote a culture of prevention that recognizes the value of safety and health at work.
Despite progress made in recent years, there is still much work to be done to ensure that workers in Laos and around the world can enjoy a safe and healthy working environment. The World Day for Safety and Health at Work 2023 provides an opportunity to reflect on the progress made so far and identify areas for further action to promote safer and healthier working conditions for all.
In addition, the promotion of OSH in Laos is also a collaborative effort between the government, employers, and workers. The Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare (MoLSW), the Lao Federation of Trade Unions (LFTU), and the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LNCCI) are the tripartite partners that work together to ensure a safe and healthy working environment for everyone.
The MoLSW is responsible for formulating and implementing labor policies, including those related to OSH. LFTU represents the workers and ensures their rights are protected in the workplace, while the LNCCI represents employers and provides guidance on how to implement OSH measures. These three partners work together to establish laws and regulations that promote OSH, as well as provide education and training on OSH practices. The involvement of all these partners shows the commitment of the Lao government, employers, and workers to promote and ensure OSH in the country. By working together, they can achieve their goal of a safer and healthier working environment for all.
The government of Laos has also been engaging and supporting the private sector in the development of OSH services. The first firm that MoLSW has granted an operating license to provide OSH services is SS International Sole Co., Ltd (SSI). SSI has been leading and actively involved in promoting a culture of safety and health in the workplace in Laos. Last year, the company collaborated with the tripartite partners and ILO to celebrate the World Day for Safety and Health at Work, including the first World Safety Day forum and the Walk to raise awareness on OSH in Laos. The event aimed to raise awareness about the importance of OSH and educate workers, employers, and the public on the best practices to ensure a safe and healthy working environment.
SSI has been providing various services related to OSH to many clients across different industries in the country, including technical consulting, OSH training, workplace inspection, risk assessment and equipment supply. The company’s mission is to promote safety and health at work for a sustainable development of Lao industries.
In conclusion, including “a safe and healthy working environment” as a fundamental principle and right at work by the ILC is a significant step towards promoting workers’ rights and well-being around the world. The World Day for Safety and Health at Work 2023 offers a platform to discuss the implications of this right and explore practical ways to implement it. In Laos, the tripartite partners (including MoLSW, LFTU and LNCCI) and international organizations such as the ILO remain committed to working together and with other stakeholders to strengthen OSH systems and promote a safer and healthier working environment for all.
Reference:
- International Labour Organization. World Day for Safety and Health at Work 2023. Retrieved from https://www.ilo.org/global/topics/safety-and-health-at-work/events-training/events-meetings/safeday2023/lang–en/index.htm
- SS International Sole Co., Ltd (SSI) www.ssi.com.la ; facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/SSInternational.la
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