VELLORE: For the first time, Christian Medical College (CMC) hospital will observe World Day for Safety and Health on April 28.
The theme is ‘Join us in building a culture of prevention of OSH (occupational safety and health)’.
According to the hospital, this is an effort to create awareness among the public and to educate staff to create a healthy workforce. There has been a growing emphasis on the concept of OSH in CMC, Vellore, for over a year now. A dedicated team is assigned to look into occupational hazards and related illnesses.
Dr Reginald Alex, organiser of the event, said that since 2003, the International Labour Organisation (ILO) has been observing World Day for Safety and Health at Work on April 28. The organisation emphasises the need for a safe and healthy working environment at all levels. He said he hopes that employers and workers actively participate in securing a safe and healthy working environment through a system of defined rights, responsibilities and duties, and that the highest priority is accorded to the principle of prevention.
“Various occupational health teams have been working on identifying and preventing occupational health issues. Back pain is a common hazard encountered by staff and back exercise-based prevention culture has been established in several departments. Employees working in noisy environments have been taught preventive measures and an annual surveillance for hearing problems has been instituted. A thrust in prevention of radiation hazards has been instituted. The acceptance of preventive measures has risen steeply. Furthermore, plans are being made to support and help employees who suffer from work stress,” Dr Alex said.
Essay and logo making competitions were conducted in connection with the Day, which saw enthusiastic participation from students and staff. Prize winners will be awarded on Tuesday. Programmes connected with the commemoration of World Day for Safety and Health at Work will commence at 8.30 am in the area between the ISSCC building and the student nurses’ hostel, main hospital campus. Stalls will be put up to showcase occupational hazards and preventive strategies in health care settings.