Usdaw highlights Psychosocial risks and mental wellbeing at work

Joanne Thomas – Usdaw general secretary says: “International Workers' Memorial Day is when the labour and trade union movement remembers those who have been killed or injured at work and those who have died from occupational diseases. So, on 28 April we ‘remember the dead and fight for the living’ by highlighting our all-year-round campaigning for better health and safety.

“Health and safety at work is a right not a privilege. Keeping members safe is one of the key aims of Usdaw. This involves ensuring safe working practices and environments, safety training, ensuring the supply of personal protective equipment, and advising members and reps on all other aspects of safety at work.

“Usdaw has thousands of trained safety reps across the UK who are instrumental in maintaining a safe workplace and who work with management to prevent accidents. Usdaw also has experts in its health and safety section at head office who, along with the union’s network of area organisers, offer important advice and support to reps and members.

“Pressures at work can harm mental health, contribute to long-term illness and can lead to preventable deaths. Employers are required to protect workers from work-related stress and carry out risk assessments. We join with the TUC in calling for clearer regulations to strengthen enforcement and ensure employers meet their responsibilities. Workers are entitled to safe workloads, fair hours, respectful workplaces, and proper mental health support, alongside consultation through union Health and Safety Representatives, redesign unsafe work and ensure safe staffing levels and fair targets. It is vital to spot early signs of stress, challenge unsafe practices, and campaign for healthier workplaces.

“Usdaw reps across the country will be bringing Workers Memorial Day into their workplaces, publicising the importance of health and safety and in some areas participating in public ceremonies and events. I wish them well in their commemorations and campaigning. Our message is clear – the best way to ensure your right to health and safety at work is to join the union.”