Every worker has a right to go to work and come home safely. Each year April 28 is an important date for anyone with an interest in safety, health and welfare of people at work. Workers’ Memorial Day is held each year on 28^th of April when trade union and employer groups worldwide, as well as individual organisations, remember those who’ve been killed or injured work-related accidents.

In Ireland, in the 10-year period between 2009 2018, 485 people were killed in work-related accidents and thousands more badly injured. In 2018, 38 people were killed. It is widely acknowledged that worker safety and health is everyone’s business can only be tackled through collaborative approach between all stakeholders.

Recent figures released by the Health and Safety Authority (HSA), the body responsible for the administration and enforcement of health and safety in the workplace, showed a decline of 23% on 2017 in work related fatalities – the lowest figure since the establishment of the HSA since 1989. The farming sector, which consistently has been the most dangerous sector, featured 15 work-related deaths 2017, a welcome decline of 40%. The fatal accident rate of 1.6 deaths per 100,000 workers is also now at an all-time low.

Ronan Hynes, Partner and health and safety expert commented: “Workers’ Memorial Day is a significant date in the calendar each year to remember those who have been killed or injured in the workplace. Recent statistics published by the HSA are encouraging but we still cannot afford to be complacent. Health and safety is a key factor for all industries in order to protect the safety and wellness of both employees and employers. Research has shown that good health and safety practices result in greater employee morale and retention, costs savings and improved business efficiency. This is even more important in a thriving economy where we are approaching full employment. Safe and healthy employees are the foundation of any successful business.”

 Should you require more information on health and safety, please contact Ronan Hynes on 061 414355 or email [email protected].