The ILO has never accepted the belief that injury and disease "go with the job". In the face of globalization, the new challenge is to ensure that increasing numbers of working people enjoy a safe and healthy work environment. That is why the Organization has adopted April 28 - a day the world's trade union movement has long associated with commemorating victims of occupational death, injury and disease - as World Day for Safety and Health at Work. The International Day for Safety and Health at Work, to be observed annually on or about 28 April, is aimed at focussing world attention on the magnitude of this problem and, most importantly, at helping to strenghten international resolve to create safer and healthier workplaces everywhere.

The theme identified for 2003 is "Promoting and Implementing a Safety and Health Culture in a Globalized World". A panel discussion was held in Geneva on April 28. The Director-General of the ILO, Mr. Juan Somavia, presented an overview of the status of occupational safety and health in the world. A journalist moderated the six-person panel. The ILO perspective was voiced by the Executive Director of the ILO's Social Protection Sector, Mr. Assane Diop. Dr. Jukka Takala, Director of SafeWork, wrapped up the discussion.

For further information, visit www.ilo.org/public/english/protection/safework/worldday/index.htm.

ILO Press Release - 24 April 2003.