Press announcement
Driving Holistic Workplace Health and Safety: Revolutionising Training and Support for Today’s Workforce
Updated
Ahead of World Day for Safety and Health at Work, International SOS, the world's leading health and security risk services company, calls on global organizations to reinforce their commitment to safeguarding the health, safety, and occupational wellbeing of their workforce. The global burden of workplace injury remains a significant concern, with the latest data highlighting the urgent need for action: approximately 2.93 million workers are reported to lose their lives annually due to work-related diseases (89%), and occupational accidents and injuries (11%).
Over 75% of work-related mortality is attributed to circulatory, neoplastic, and respiratory diseases. Notably, long working hours and pollutant exposure are major contributors, highlighting the ongoing importance of robust workplace health and safety measures.
International SOS data underscores the prevalence of respiratory issues, revealing a 10% rise in assistance requests related to respiratory diseases in 2024 compared to the previous year.
Despite the risk of workplace harm to workers and organizations alike, most of the global workforce has never had Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) training (62%). While this indicates a significant area for improvement, organizations are showing progress in mental health support, with over 70% integrating it into their workplace health and safety policies, according to a new report by the International SOS Foundation.
Dr Olivier LO, Group Medical Director, Occupational Health Services, at International SOS, comments,
Over 75% of work-related mortality is attributed to circulatory, neoplastic, and respiratory diseases. Notably, long working hours and pollutant exposure are major contributors, highlighting the ongoing importance of robust workplace health and safety measures.
International SOS data underscores the prevalence of respiratory issues, revealing a 10% rise in assistance requests related to respiratory diseases in 2024 compared to the previous year.
Despite the risk of workplace harm to workers and organizations alike, most of the global workforce has never had Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) training (62%). While this indicates a significant area for improvement, organizations are showing progress in mental health support, with over 70% integrating it into their workplace health and safety policies, according to a new report by the International SOS Foundation.
Dr Olivier LO, Group Medical Director, Occupational Health Services, at International SOS, comments,
It is important to acknowledge that workplace harm, encompassing both physical and mental wellbeing of workers, frequently arises from limitations in organisational governance and resource provision. A fundamental Duty of Care is non-negotiable; organisational neglect in these areas carries substantial human and economic consequences. Addressing these issues demands a holistic, structured approach, recognizing that the health and safety of the global workforce are inextricably linked to the broader operational framework. Furthermore, the rapid integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digitisation into workplaces necessitates a renewed focus on safety, as these technologies reshape jobs and introduce new potential hazards.
To effectively mitigate risks, deeply embedded health and safety practices, including education and training, are vital. These elements are not merely supplementary but are critical for fostering proactive vigilance and preventing human error. Where health and safety are ingrained within the organisational culture, both workers and management are better positioned to actively identify and address potential hazards, thereby safeguarding the workforce and ensuring sustainable business practices
To learn more about how International SOS can help your organizations to create healthier and safer workplaces, click here.
About the International SOS Group of Companies; 40 years of saving lives
The International SOS Group of Companies is in the business of protecting and saving lives. Wherever you are, we deliver customized security risk management, health and wellbeing solutions to fuel your growth and productivity. In the event of a security incident, epidemic, extreme weather or any other business-disrupting event, we provide an immediate response, giving you and your workforce peace of mind. We uniquely combine industry-leading technology with expertise in security, medical and logistics to deliver prevention programs that offer real-time, actionable insights and on-the-ground support.
Founded in 1985, the International SOS Group has been saving lives for 40 years. Headquartered in London and Singapore, we are trusted by over 9,000 organizations. This includes the majority of the Fortune Global 500, as well as mid-size enterprises, governments, educational institutions, and NGOs. Nearly 13,000 global experts stand with you to provide support and assistance from over 1,200 locations in 90 countries, over 110 languages, 24/7, 365 days a year.
We help protect your people and your organization, as well as support your compliance reporting needs. By partnering with us, your organization can fulfill its Duty of Care responsibilities and fortify its business continuity.
To strengthen your resilience, we are at your fingertips; internationalsos.com.