Parliament is calling for a European day to commemorate the victims of workplace accidents

In memory of the victims of workplace accidents and occupational illnesses, MEPs are calling for 8 August to be designated as the European Day of Remembrance for Victims of Workplace Accidents and for the Protection and Dignity of Workers.

The aim of this day, they argue, would be to raise awareness of the importance of prevention and safety at work in the public sector, businesses and institutions, alongside the implementation of specific initiatives in schools and workplaces. The text was backed by MEPs with 395 votes in favour, 12 against and 41 abstentions.

Health and safety risks related to AI

The Parliament also wants the Commission to assess and address the occupational health and safety risks associated with AI and algorithmic management systems. MEPs state that workers hired through digital labour platforms and those whose tasks, pace and performance are directed or assessed by AI-based tools may face greater risks due to intensified work rates and abusive monitoring in algorithmic decision-making.

Heat-related risks at work

MEPs urge the Commission to assess occupational health and safety risks linked to climatic factors, such as heat stress, extreme weather events and air pollution. They have called for better protection and prevention measures in the workplace to safeguard workers from extreme heat and the impacts of climate change, which they want to be recognised as significant occupational risk factors.

Inspections

To help ensure safe and healthy workplaces, the Parliament stresses the importance of statutory occupational safety and health inspections and urges EU countries to strengthen labour inspections with permanent staff, adequate resources and institutional independence.

Quote

Chiara Gemma(ECR, IT), rapporteur, said: “We must translate our remembrance of the victims of workplace accidents into a concrete commitment to their prevention. Our resolution reinforces support for the ‘Vision Zero’ objective: zero deaths at work. Safe and decent working conditions are a fundamental right and a cornerstone of the European social model. Remembrance must lead to accountability, awareness and greater protection for all workers.”

Background:

On 8 August 1956, 262 miners lost their lives in the tragedy at the Bois Du Cazier mine in Marcinelle, Belgium. The workers were citizens of various countries that are now part of the EU.

In 2023, there were 3,298 fatal workplace accidents in the EU and around 2.8 million non-fatal accidents resulting in at least four days’ sick leave, with serious problems in high-risk sectors such as construction, transport, manufacturing and agriculture.

More information: European Parliament.