World Safety Day: Lagos Restates Commitment to Safe Workplaces

The Lagos State Safety Commission on Monday joined the global community in commemorating World Safety Day, reaffirming its commitment to promoting safer, healthier workplaces across the state.

The state, in a statement issued by the director-general of the Commission, Mr Lanre Mojola, congratulated workers, employers, and safety advocates worldwide on the occasion, observed annually on 28 April.

Mojola described the day as a critical reminder of the need to prioritise occupational safety, noting that work-related accidents and illnesses remain significant global challenges despite growing awareness.

According to him, the observance—championed by the United Nations and the International Labour Organisation—provides an opportunity for stakeholders to strengthen preventive measures, share best practices, and renew commitments to safeguarding workers.

Highlighting this year’s theme, “Good Psychosocial Working Environments: A Pathway to Thriving Workers and Strong Organisations,” Mojola stressed that workplace safety must extend beyond physical protection to include mental well-being, effective workload management, role clarity, and a positive organisational culture.

He explained that the 2026 theme focuses on reducing psychosocial hazards arising from organisational work arrangements, such as excessive workload, poor communication, lack of support, and inadequate reward systems.

The director-general further urged organisations to view employees as partners and individuals, not merely as resources, emphasising the need for flexible work arrangements and respect for work-life boundaries, including avoiding demands outside official working hours.

He also advocated implementing Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs), counselling services, and stress management initiatives, noting that empathy, understanding, and flexible work schedules are essential to preventing burnout.

Mojola reaffirmed that Lagos State remains committed to fostering a robust safety culture by encouraging organisations to adopt modern tools and proactive strategies to reduce workplace incidents.

He added that the annual commemoration underscores the importance of continuous learning, strategic planning, and sustained commitment to safety practices as key drivers of improved workplace conditions.

Mojola urged employers, employees and other stakeholders to leverage the global observance to reassess their safety protocols and invest in systems that protect lives while enhancing productivity.

He reiterated that ensuring safe and healthy work environments is a shared responsibility that requires collective action and innovation.