HSENI focuses on workplace health at Workers' Memorial Day

Workers' Memorial Day (WMD) is an observed international day to commemorate all those who have been killed, injured or have contracted an occupational illness or disease at or because of work. This years emphasis is about 'Creating a focus on Occupational Health'.

Recent research has indicated that workplace ill health is estimated to be costing the Northern Ireland economy over £238 million per year. In Northern Ireland alone it is estimated that 395 people die each year due to work-related disease. Many other occupational ill health conditions have a serious impact upon an individual's quality of life and that of their family.

At a WMD event held today at the Stormont Hotel, Belfast, Principal Inspector Kyle Carrick talked about HSENI's focus on the following occupational health priority areas:

• occupational lung diseases
• occupational cancers
• musculoskeletal disorders & work-related stress

Speaking at the event Kyle said: "HSENI will continue to make workplace health an operational priority. As co-workers and safety representatives we all need to work together to raise awareness on occupational ill-health and ensure the risks are effectively managed in our respective places of work."

Notes to editors: 

1. Workers' Memorial Day, Belfast was organised by the ICTU NIC (Irish Congress of Trade Unions, Northern Ireland Committee).
2. HSENI's workplace health priority areas are outlined within HSENI's draft Corporate Plan 2018-2023.
3. The Workers' Memorial Day event began with a short wreath laying ceremony at the WMD tree in the grounds of Stormont Estate, followed by a presentation of the Safety Rep of the Year Award and a Q&A session held at the Stormont Hotel, Belfast.
4. For media enquiries please contact HSENI Press Office on 028 9024 3249 or email media@hseni.gov.uk
5. For out of office hours please contact the Duty Press officer on 028 9037 8110.

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