RSU researchers improve occupational safety in Latvia
Experts from Rīga Stradiņš University Institute of Occupational Safety and Environmental Health (IOSEH) continued to explore working conditions and risks in Latvia in their fifth project. As a part of the research improvements have been developed in the regulatory framework of occupational safety, aimed at reducing occupational accidents by improving working conditions and the health of employees.
The research “Working conditions and risks in Latvia 2019–2021” continued a series of four such studies previously conducted by the Institute between 2005 and 2018. The fifth study from 2019 to 2021 provided an in-depth and comprehensive analysis of different aspects of working conditions and working environment risks, as well as their changes in dynamics. By monitoring working conditions and risks and identifying the current situation and the causes of problems, IOSEH determined the necessary changes and improvements in the regulatory framework of occupational safety. Recommendations were prepared for measures at the national level to promote the improvement of working conditions in companies, also reflecting those aspects of occupational safety and health for which employers and employees lack information.
Registration of accidents improves, and the number of fatal accidents decreases
Previously, there were incomplete statistics on registered injuries at work, but during the study, IOSEH compiled and analysed this data. Analysis of the number of registered accidents showed that the total number of cases continues to increase in Latvia, but the number of fatal accidents per 100,000 employed persons is decreasing. The overall increase in the number of registered accidents indicates better registration, as regulations require medical institutions to report occupational accidents to the State Labor Inspectorate. Thereby social guarantees to victims are ensured – treatment and rehabilitation provided by the state or employer. Retraining and vocational rehabilitation programmes are offered if it is not possible to continue working in the current position. Employees are provided with social protection, financial support and tailored jobs to promote long-term ability to work. In turn, the reduction in the number of fatal accidents is due to the improvement of the working environment in the long term.
IOSEH plays an important role in the National Development Plan for Labour Protection for 2024–2027 approved by the Cabinet of Ministers: the Institute provided all the necessary data to create a data-based action plan. The proposals developed by IOSEH shape the labour protection measures included in the plan, which promote the health and well-being of employees, reduce the number of accidents in workplaces and improve labour productivity in Latvia.
Employers, employees and social partners are involved
Employers and employees often lack sufficient knowledge about essential aspects of occupational safety, such as the correct use of personal protective equipment, the creation of ergonomic workplaces, the impact of hazardous chemicals and other harmful factors on health. Employers sometimes lack information about regulations and effective occupational safety solutions, while employees are not sufficiently informed about their rights and duties in ensuring a safe working environment.
During the study, occupational health and safety specialists and occupational disease physicians accessed up-to-date and accurate information regarding the risks of the working environment and the causes of problems. This knowledge contributes to the reduction of accidents at work and occupational diseases.
Social partners are also involved: Employers' Confederation of Latvia and the Free Trade Union of Latvia, now receive fewer complaints about disagreements between employers and employees as working conditions and safety are improved.
Benefits
The benefits of the study concern several areas: firstly, it creates a safer and healthier working environment – by providing employees with better occupational safety conditions the risk of accidents at work and occupational diseases is reduced. In the long term this reduces both the costs of companies related to compensation and sickness benefits, which in turn promotes their productivity and competitiveness, and public expenditure on the treatment of occupational diseases and injuries. Improving work safety conditions and raising awareness of work environment risks promotes the long-term health and quality of life of employees. It also reduces the pressure on the healthcare system and potential treatment costs for work-related injuries and diseases.
Secondly, labour productivity increases – improving occupational safety measures has a positive impact on employee motivation and efficiency. Healthier and safer employees mean lower losses due to paid sick leave.
Thirdly, occupational health and safety training not only improves the knowledge and skills of employers and employees but also promotes a sense of responsibility. Through systematic data collection and regular training, IOSEH improves the work safety culture in Latvia, which helps to identify and prevent risks of the working environment more effectively. This improves the internal culture and working conditions of companies in the long term, promoting sustainable development and reducing employee turnover. Companies providing a higher level of occupational safety become more efficient and attractive to potential employees and investors, which in turn increases their competitiveness and has a positive impact on the economic situation in the country.
Several thousand occupational safety professionals improve their knowledge every year
IOSEH develops guidelines and provides expert advice to help employers implement better occupational health and safety systems and adequately assess risks. This improves occupational safety and provides a healthier working environment, that has a positive impact on the competitiveness of companies and reduces costs related to occupational accidents and diseases. Training for employers has been established, as well as information materials prepared by IOSEH on occupational safety and protection issues for occupational safety specialists, company managers, employees, occupational health doctors, etc.
Since 2019 IOSEH has surveyed more than 1,500 individuals with increased knowledge and skills on occupational safety issues. In addition, approximately 3,000 more occupational safety specialists are reached annually, including in public administration. This helps to reduce the number of accidents at work and improve the health of employees, thereby contributing to productivity at work and long-term economic growth.
