Maintaining workplace facilities is about more than just fixing visible problems—it’s a proactive way to ensure a safe, healthy, and efficient environment for employees. Unaddressed issues, such as hidden structural vulnerabilities, electrical hazards, or even pest infestations, can have serious consequences for both employee well-being and business operations.

Modern workplaces, particularly those in older or converted buildings, often face hidden risks that are easy to overlook. For instance, rodents can enter through small openings, causing significant damage to wiring, insulation, and structural elements. These pests also pose health risks by introducing diseases and contaminants into the workspace.

To combat these challenges, implementing Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM) is a key strategy. Regular inspections throughout the year help identify potential issues before they escalate into costly repairs or safety hazards. By checking areas like roof spaces, ventilation systems, and utility connections, businesses can mitigate risks and ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.

Seasonal maintenance is equally important. Winter weather can lead to frozen pipes, unstable roof tiles, and heating inefficiencies, which may create additional risks, including damp, mold, and structural damage. Addressing these concerns proactively helps maintain a comfortable and safe environment for employees, even in extreme conditions.

Incorporating a comprehensive maintenance plan not only safeguards physical infrastructure but also boosts employee morale and productivity. A well-maintained workplace demonstrates a commitment to health and safety, reduces unexpected downtime, and avoids expensive emergency repairs.

By staying vigilant and prioritizing regular upkeep, businesses can protect their assets, minimize risks, and foster a work environment where employees thrive.

Summary: 

The ILO article on wage statistics explores how working conditions and wages significantly impact workers’ quality of life. It emphasizes that employment alone does not guarantee a decent living without adequate working conditions and fair remuneration. Monitoring wage trends provides crucial insights into whether workers benefit from productivity gains.

Key Points:

1. Introduction: Access to employment must be paired with quality working conditions, including sufficient wages to ensure a decent standard of living.
2. Importance of Equal Pay: Disaggregated data is essential to assess adherence to the principle of equal pay for work of equal value.
3. Available Resources:
   • Indicators on wages by gender, age, education, and other factors.
   • Databases such as COND and ILOSDG.
4. Relevant Publications: Methodological documents and practical guides for measuring and analyzing labor statistics related to SDGs.
5. Methodology: Tools and methods to collect and analyze wage and working condition data, based on international standards.

Relevance: These statistics are vital for policymakers aiming to promote decent work, reduce inequalities, and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

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20 December 2024 | Emergency Situational Updates

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), World Health Organization (WHO), and World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) have released an updated joint public health assessment concerning recent influenza A(H5N1) virus events in animals and humans. Based on data as of 18 November 2024, the assessment concludes that the global public health risk posed by these viruses remains low.

Key Findings:

• Global Risk Level: The overall risk to public health from influenza A(H5N1) viruses is classified as low.
• Occupational Exposure Risk: For individuals working closely with animals, the risk of infection is assessed as low to moderate, influenced by the effectiveness of local avian influenza control measures and the specific epidemiological situation.
• Animal-to-Animal Transmission: Influenza A(H5N1) continues to spread among animals, underscoring the need for sustained monitoring and control measures.
• Human Infections: While the number of reported human cases has increased, they remain limited. Most cases are linked to direct exposure to infected animals or contaminated environments.

Future Expectations:

The FAO, WHO, and WOAH anticipate additional human infections due to ongoing exposure risks. However, the public health impact of these cases is expected to remain minimal at a global scale.

Recommendations:

1. Enhanced Surveillance: Continued monitoring of influenza A(H5N1) in both animals and humans is critical to detect and respond to emerging risks.
2. Risk Mitigation for Workers: Employers in high-risk sectors should implement robust safety measures to protect individuals occupationally exposed to the virus.
3. Public Awareness: Authorities should promote awareness about avian influenza and safe practices for handling animals to minimize exposure.

This updated assessment is part of ongoing efforts by global organizations to address zoonotic diseases and their potential impact on public health. The Global Influenza Programme (GIP) and Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System under WHO continue to coordinate international responses and research to mitigate risks.

For further details, download the complete report: FAO/WHO/WOAH Assessment (476.2 kB)