Why Workplace Safety is a Human Right
The right to health and safety at work is a fundamental human right, enshrined in international law and protected by robust regulations. Yet, in the midst of a fast-paced and competitive world, this right is often overlooked, compromising the well-being and dignity of workers worldwide.
The International Labour Organization (ILO), a champion of workers’ rights and occupational safety, emphasises that the protection of workers from sickness, disease, and injury is not only a labour right but a fundamental human right.
Nick Paveley said: “In South Africa, the Occupational Health and Safety Act (Act 85 of 1993) enshrines the basic human rights of employees, including the right to a safe working environment, the right to be informed about workplace hazards, and the right to refuse unsafe work. These rights are essential to guaranteeing the right to life, health, and freedom from harm in the workplace. However, in the face of increasing pressure to maintain productivity, safety and human rights are often neglected. It is crucial to prioritise safety and promote a culture of safety in the workplace to protect employees’ rights and well-being.”
The Importance of Occupational Health and Safety
Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) is a critical component of any workplace, focusing on protecting employees from accidents, injuries, and exposure to harmful substances. While accidents can happen at any time, employers have a responsibility to take steps to reduce the risk of incidents and maintain a safe working environment.
Effective OHS policies and procedures are essential to identifying and mitigating hazards, and providing employees with the necessary training, safety equipment, and resources to work safely. Failure to implement these measures can lead to injuries, reduced productivity, workers’ compensation claims, and penalties.
The Benefits of Prioritising OHS
Prioritising OHS at your business has numerous benefits, including:
- Reduced risk of accidents or injuries by identifying and mitigating hazards
- Improved efficiency and productivity due to fewer employees missing work from illness or injury
- Improved employee relations and morale through a safer and less stressful work environment
- Reduced costs associated with accidents or injuries, including healthcare and rehabilitative costs, losses in productivity, and impact on employees’ well-being
- Lower insurance premiums resulting from fewer workplace incidents and workers’ compensation claims
A Shared Responsibility
Providing a safe and healthy work environment is not just a moral obligation, but a fundamental responsibility. “Employers have a moral and legal obligation to provide a safe and healthy work environment, while workers have the responsibility to know their rights and that they are entitled to safe and healthy working conditions,” said Paveley.
He/she added: “This right is rooted in the fundamental human dignity and worth of every individual, who deserves to be protected from harm and exploitation. By recognising and respecting these mutual rights and responsibilities, we can foster a culture of collaboration and shared accountability. Together, employers, workers, and governments can work towards a common goal: a workplace where safety, health, and productivity thrive, benefiting everyone involved.
“Ultimately, workplace safety is a human right because it is essential to the well-being, dignity, and freedom of every worker, and its protection is a fundamental test of our commitment to upholding human rights in all aspects of life,” Paveley said.