Essential Role of Occupational Health and Safety in Work Life – BRTK
Promoting Occupational Health and Safety: A Call to Action from Minister Sadık Gardiyanoğlu
As part of the annual observance of Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Week, which runs from May 4 to May 10, Labor and Social Security Minister Sadık Gardiyanoğlu has emphasized the critical importance of workplace safety. In a recent statement, he stressed that the aim of OHS regulations is not merely to avoid penalties but to ensure that employees return to their loved ones safely.
"Occupational health and safety is not just a matter of awareness for a single week; it’s a vital principle woven into every aspect of working life," Minister Gardiyanoğlu affirmed. He believes that prioritizing preventive measures is more humane and cost-effective than dealing with the aftermath of workplace accidents.
In an effort to enhance the safety culture across workplaces, the Ministry has initiated a series of meetings with municipalities and district governorships. This collaboration aims to identify safety deficiencies and develop collective solutions. As a result of these discussions, employers are now required to consult the Labor Office prior to obtaining construction permits from the relevant municipalities. The Minister highlighted the importance of having construction registration and OHS specialists involved, as this would streamline data collection and improve the oversight of safety practices in the construction sector.
This year, the Ministry of Labor and Social Security has designated significant efforts towards raising awareness about occupational health and safety. Various activities will be launched, including public service announcements aimed at enhancing awareness and distributing informative posters related to workplace safety.
In a visionary move, Gardiyanoğlu declared 2025 as the "Year of Work," aiming to foster a culture of safety among future generations. To this end, workshops and screenings of short films focused on OHS will be conducted for primary school students in six selected districts.
Further reinforcing the commitment to safety, all inspectors and audit personnel from the Labor Department will convene in Nicosia on May 8 to conduct comprehensive safety inspections and provide education on the proper use of personal protective equipment.
Minister Gardiyanoğlu reiterated the importance of compliance with OHS rules, urging employers and employees alike to take the necessary precautions. He expressed hope that the initiatives surrounding this year’s OHS Week would lead to a significant reduction in workplace accidents and the tragic loss of workers.
"Prevention is always better—both economically and ethically—than facing the consequences," said Gardiyanoğlu, as he called for a collective effort to safeguard the health and safety of all workers.
