Respect for a safe and healthy workplace has been specially marked by the International Labour Organisation in recognition of International Workers’ Day today.

Kevin Grant, the general secretary of the Bermuda Trade Union Congress, said: “Now more than ever, in the aftermath of a worldwide pandemic, there must be a heightened awareness for employers to ensure that all workers are afforded adequate safety, and any necessary protection within their work environments.”

He said the ILO’s enshrining of health and safety as a fundamental right had been taken up on Friday by unions worldwide, in light of the “horrifying reality that three million workers die each year because of their work”.

Mr Grant added that the BTUC would launch a “We Built this Island” campaign emphasising “every worker’s contribution to service” in Bermuda.

“Unions must take responsibility to ensure that workers in today’s new world of work are afforded the opportunity of a safe and healthy work environment.”

Mr Grant said this included workplaces free of bullying and sexual harassment, that recognised worker safety regarding mental health and provided adequate resources and equipment.

He highlighted the need for safe buildings, health and safety training, proper sick leave and health insurance, and compliance with the Occupational Safety and Health Act.

The Progressive Labour Party also marked International Workers’ Day, saying it commemorated the historic struggles and advances made by the labour movement and celebrate contributions made by workers.

A statement from the party said the PLP’s roots were in labour and its members had played “an instrumental role in steadfastly and unapologetically progressing the rights of labour”.

It noted that it had passed the Employment Amendment Act and the Trade Union and Labour Relations [Consolidation] Act in 2020, which it said gave protections to workers and trade unions that exceeded those found in many other jurisdictions and had been achieved by the Government, unions and employers working together.

It also heralded the passage of The Employment [Minimum Wage Entitlement] Act last year. That Act is due to take effect this year.