ILO: 2.2 M workers die from job-related causes

MANILA, Philippines – Work is taking its toll on some 2.2 million people worldwide who die annually from accidents and diseases related to their jobs, the International Labor Organization (ILO) reported yesterday.

“Millions of work related accidents, injury and disease annually take their toll on human lives, businesses, the economy and the environment,” ILO director general Juan Somavia said.

Each year, Somavia said, an estimated 270 million people globally also suffer non-fatal, work-related accidents resulting in at least three days absence from work. An additional 160 million new people suffer from some work-related illness, he said.

“But we know that by assessing risks and hazards, combating them at source and promoting a culture of prevention we can significantly reduce workplace illness and injuries,” Somavia added.

He called on governments worldwide to undertake measures to manage risks in workplaces to reduce the human and economic burden of work-related accidents and diseases.

The ILO official said that by reducing the incidents of accidents and diseases in workplace and lowering the compensation claim, employers can promote productivity and enhance business.

In a new report entitled “My Life, My Work, My Safe Work: Managing Risk in the Work Environment,” the ILO listed risk management techniques, which identify, anticipate and assess hazards and risks and take positive action to control and reduce them.

The report was published in celebration of World Day for Safety and Health at Work on April 28 when the, ILO said, numerous field events and activities are planned around the world to mark the event. – Mayen Jaymalin