Occupational Safety and Health Strategy. Follow-up Report 2004

Abstract

Implementation of the occupational safety and health (OSH) strategy, confirmed by the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health, is evaluated every third year. Among the evaluators is the Advisory Board of Occupational Safety and Health working in connection with the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health. The central labour market organisations are represented in the Body. The first follow-up report of the OSH strategy was written in 2001. This second report has been drawn up according to the same principles.

In this report, the development of working conditions and occupational safety and health activities in six prioritised areas is described on the basis of research and statistical data. Fulfilment of the strategy’s central principles is illustrated separately from the viewpoint of workplaces and the occupational safety and health administration. The network of partners in the health and safety sector including labour market organisations and research institutes and the European Union is discussed separately.

At the end of the follow-up report there are conclusions and assessments made on the basis of the descriptions. Working conditions have further improved in various sub-sectors. Occupational safety and health activities and the comprehensive cooperation in this sector have developed favourably. The report also shows that many challenges still exist for improving working conditions and new ones are emerging with changes in working life.

The OSH strategy is implemented taking account of the guidelines laid down by the Government, the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health and the European Union. More information is needed on how working conditions affect the number of disability pensions and sick absences. Employees’ well-being is very significant to their work motivation and capabilities to cope with work and continue working.