Greetings to our lovely and committed people of Rivers State, and welcome to another episode of RivEthics on Radio, our character-building weekend show. Please remember that you are primarily responsible for your health and safety during this global pandemic. This episode is in commemoration of the United Nations World Day for Safety and Health at Work, which comes up on April 28th.
Recognizing the great challenge that governments, employers, workers and whole societies are facing worldwide to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, the World Day for Safety and Health at Work is focusing on addressing the outbreak of infectious diseases at work, particularly the COVID-19 pandemic.
Concern is growing over the continuing rise in COVID-19 infections in Nigeria and other parts of the world and the ability to sustain declining rates in others. Governments, employers, workers and their organisations face enormous challenges as they try to combat the COVID-19 pandemic and protect safety and health at work. Beyond the immediate crisis, there are also concerns about resuming activity in a manner that sustains progress made in suppressing transmission.
This event, the World Day for Safety and Health at Work, aims to stimulate dialogue on safety and health at work. The International Labour Organisation is using this day to raise awareness on the adoption of safe practices in workplaces and the role that occupational safety and health (OSH) services play.
Each of us is responsible for stopping deaths and injuries on the job. Governments are responsible for providing the infrastructure — laws and services — necessary to ensure that workers remain employable and that enterprises flourish. Employers are responsible for ensuring that the working environment is safe and healthy. Workers are responsible to work safely, protect themselves, to know their rights, participate in the implementation of preventive measures, and not endanger others.
We have learned from past crisis that workplaces can be of vital importance to prevent and control outbreaks. Adequate safety and health measures at work can play a crucial role in containing the spread of the disease, while protecting workers and society at large. Governments, employers and workers all have a role to play in tackling the COVID-19 crisis, and their collaboration is key.
Our guest speaker today is Sir (Dr.) Charles K. Wami, an expert on Workplace Health and Safety in Port Harcourt. He will share his insight on the topic. Please enjoy the episode.
Our great people of Rivers State, don’t forget to always let your manners speak for you.
God bless and keep you and your families and God bless Rivers State.