Lagos urges action on workplace safety, mental health

The Lagos State Government has urged employers to adopt Employee Assistance Programmes as part of efforts to strengthen workplace safety and support workers’ mental well-being, in commemoration of this year’s World Safety Day.

This was contained in a statement issued on Monday by the Director of Public Affairs of the Lagos State Safety Commission, Adewunmi Okoh.

According to the statement, the Director-General of the Commission, Lanre Mojola, congratulated workers, employers, and safety advocates worldwide on the occasion, observed annually on April 28.

The statement described World Safety Day, championed by the United Nations and the International Labour Organisation, as a reminder of the need to prioritise occupational safety, noting that work-related accidents and illnesses remain major global concerns despite increasing awareness.

The DG urged employers and stakeholders to strengthen preventive measures, share best practices, and renew their commitment to safeguarding workers.

The statement read, “Highlighting this year’s theme, ‘Good Psychosocial Working Environments: A Pathway to Thriving Workers and Strong Organisations,’ Mojola stressed that workplace safety must extend beyond physical protection to include mental well-being, effective workload management, role clarity, and a positive organisational culture.

“He explained that the 2026 theme focuses on reducing psychosocial hazards arising from the organisation of work, such as excessive workload, poor communication, lack of support, and inadequate reward systems.

“The Director-General further urged organisations to view employees as partners and individuals, not merely as resources, emphasising the need for flexible work arrangements and respect for work-life boundaries, including avoiding demands outside official working hours.”

The statement noted that Mojola also advocated the implementation of Employee Assistance Programmes focusing on counselling and stress management.

Okoh added that empathy, understanding, and flexible work schedules were essential to building a healthy workforce.

The statement further read, “Mojola reaffirmed that Lagos State remains committed to fostering a robust safety culture by encouraging organisations to adopt modern tools and proactive strategies aimed at reducing workplace incidents.

“He added that the annual commemoration underscores the importance of continuous learning, strategic planning, and sustained commitment to safety practices as key drivers of improved workplace conditions.”

Okoh concluded that the DG urged employers, employees, and other stakeholders to leverage the global observance to reassess their safety protocols and invest in systems that protect lives while enhancing productivity.