The Minister of Labor, Marina Calderone, emphasized the importance of prioritizing health and safety in the workplace, referring to articles 232 and 41 of the Constitution which affirm the absolute principle of protecting the physical and mental integrity of individuals. This commitment towards the protection of the health and safety of workers is crucial for upholding human dignity. The Minister made these remarks at the General States of Health and Safety at Work, held from October 29 to 31 at the Chamber of Deputies in the presence of President Sergio Mattarella. She stressed that ensuring safe working conditions is not only a duty but also a reflection of solidarity that binds society together.
Nicolas Schmit, the European Commissioner for Employment and Social Rights, also attended the ongoing General States, highlighting the critical nature of workplace safety in Italy and Europe. He emphasized that achieving effective workplace safety requires a collective effort from European institutions, national and local authorities, employers, and the broader social partners. Schmit underscored the importance of prevention and training as key elements in addressing the issue of work-related accidents. He expressed concern over the prevalence of accidents, including fatal ones, in Europe and particularly in Italy, stressing the need for concrete actions to address this pressing issue.
The inauguration of the General States on health and safety at work took place at Montecitorio, with the participation of Minister of Labor Marina Elvira Calderone and European Commissioner for Employment Schmit. The event brought together key stakeholders to discuss and address critical issues related to workplace safety. The Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to upholding the constitutional principles of protecting the integrity and well-being of workers, recognizing that every work-related injury has a ripple effect on society, affecting not only the individuals but also their families, colleagues, and the wider community.
The European Commissioner highlighted the urgent need for action to reduce the number of work-related accidents, particularly in Italy and across Europe. Schmit emphasized the importance of a comprehensive approach that involves various stakeholders in promoting a culture of safety in the workplace. He called for a concerted effort from European institutions, national and local authorities, employers, and social partners to prioritize prevention and training as essential measures to prevent accidents and protect workers’ health and safety. The Commissioner urged for concrete actions to address the persistent issue of workplace accidents and fatalities, stressing the need for immediate and sustained efforts to improve safety standards and practices.
The discussion at the General States of Health and Safety at Work underscored the shared responsibility of all stakeholders in ensuring a safe working environment that upholds the dignity and well-being of workers. The event provided a platform for dialogue and collaboration among government officials, European representatives, employers, and social partners to address the pressing issue of workplace safety. The commitment to prioritizing prevention, training, and effective safety measures was emphasized as essential components in reducing work-related accidents and promoting a culture of safety in the workplace. The urgent call for action to address the high number of accidents, including fatal ones, highlighted the need for immediate and sustained efforts to implement concrete measures to protect the health and safety of workers across Europe.
