Marvin OnumonuArmagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon (ABC) Council has backed the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) workplace health campaign to tackle work-related illnesses.
The council joined HSENI to raise awareness of risks including cancers, lung conditions, musculoskeletal disorders and mental health issues linked to work.
The campaign highlights the dangers of workplace hazards and encouraging employers to find out what steps they need to take to reduce risks.
During a visit hosted by Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Alderman Stephen Moutray (pictured, centre right), the HSENI put the cost of work-related ill health to Northern Ireland at over £390m a year.
Research found that more than 300 deaths and thousands of serious health problems are linked to work-related illnesses each year.
Robert Kidd (pictured, centre left), CEO of the HSENI, said no one’s job was worth losing their life or health over.
Kidd said: “These figures tell a stark story about the impact work-related ill health is having on our society, our workforce and our health service.
“We need to take urgent action now to ensure every workplace is one where the health risks are properly managed.
“No one should lose their life or develop ill health simply as a result of the job they do.”
Kidd added: “Yet, it is estimated that over 300 people die each year due to work-related disease and thousands more left living with serious and debilitating health conditions, with an estimated cost of over £390million per year to society.
“But these aren’t just statistics, they represent real people and real loss.
“So, we are delighted that ABC Borough Council and Lord Mayor, Alderman Stephen Moutray, are joining with us to help address this problem by supporting our Workplace Health Campaign, promoting our key messages and encouraging employers to take practical steps to protect workers’ health.”
He said: “Everyone deserves to return home with their health protected as well as their safety.
“By working together with the council, we can reach more employers, share practical guidance and support healthier, more productive workplaces,” Kidd added.
Moutray said: “ABC Council are delighted to support HSENI in this important campaign and send out a clear message that the health of our workforce is non-negotiable.
“Whether it’s in a warehouse, factory, in a field, a workshop or indeed council offices we want all our workplaces and workforce to be healthy.
“This is a proactive investment in both the long-term health of our people and our local economy, and I would urge every employer and employee to engage with the campaign to make lasting positive changes to the workplace health standards across our borough.”
