During the week of April 26th to May 2nd, the Department of Employment Services within the Ministry of Border Control will join the rest of the world in observing World Day for Safety and Health at work and “Workers’ Day” May 1st, 2015 under the theme “BUILDING A CULTURE OF PREVENTION ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH.”
A national occupational safety and Health culture is one which the right to safe and healthy working environment is respected at all levels, where governments, employers and workers actively participate in securing a safe and healthy working environment through a system of defined rights, responsibilities and duties, and where the highest priority is accorded to the principal of prevention.
In highlighting the importance of building and maintaining a culture of prevention on occupational safety and health (OSH), Minster of Border Control and Employment Hon. Ricardo Donhue Gardiner, noted “The commitment of employers, employees and interest groups alike must make use of all available means to increase general awareness, knowledge of hazard and risks, and understanding of their prevention and control. In this regard, stakeholder participation is essential to fostering lasting improvements in safety and health at work. Enabling the exchange of experience and good practice on OSH contributes to this purpose.
“Decent Work must be Safe Work. This is why, the ILO and its constituents must be leaders in promoting safety and health at work, consolidating what has been achieved, as well as sharing the principles of good practice on OSH in all sectors and workplaces. Together we must create the partnerships that are needed to bring about the changes we seek in building a culture of prevention on OSH.”
Commissioner of Labour, Michelle Fulford Gardiner stated: “This year we have scheduled a week of activities to commemorate this significant occasion in the world of work. We encourage each and every one of you to join in with us in this celebration. We all have our part to play in making a difference.”
The Commissioner further stated, “If the Turks & Caicos Islands intends to be at centre stage with the rest of the world, then, due care should be taken towards maintaining a healthy and sustainable workforce.”
