It is a workers’ right to be informed and protected against the risk of getting a work-related disease inclusive the nation-wise recognized occupational diseases, or an injury caused by a work accident. The main responsibility is in the hands of the employer, notwithstanding clear own responsibilities of the worker and the working community in this. Prevention of work-related diseases and occupational injuries is the most essential task of the Labour Inspection and of expert-based specialized Occupational Health Services.
As work, working conditions and the context of work are changing rapidly, as is the population of workers exposed, continuous attention is needed for old and for new and emerging work-related diseases. Information, education, training and consultation activities are important. We need better tools and sometimes new ones such as for diagnostics, workers’ health surveillance activities, therapy, rehabilitation, national notification and registration systems.
