Workplace psychosocial risks cause 45 million years of healthy life lost annually, ILO reports
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
A new report by the International Labour Organisation ILO indicates that workplace psychosocial risks are responsible for a significant global health burden, leading to an estimated 45 million disability-adjusted life years DALYs lost annually. This figure represents years of healthy life lost due to illness, disability, or premature death linked to work-related stress factors such as excessive workload, job insecurity, workplace harassment, and poor working conditions. The ILO stated that these risks are becoming a serious occupational health challenge worldwide, impacting workers’ wellbeing, productivity, and public health systems. The organization warned that without stronger interventions, the impact of workplace stress could continue to grow, further straining health systems and economies. The ILO emphasized the need for governments, employers, and policymakers to prioritize mental health at work, improve workplace conditions, and implement stronger protections for workers exposed to psychosocial risks. The report also highlighted that addressing workplace stress is not only a health issue but also an economic necessity, as healthier working conditions contribute to improved productivity and reduced healthcare costs globally. PUNCH Online previously reported that an ILO report found approximately 840,000 people die each year from health conditions linked to workplace risks.
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Five people, including a traditional ruler, his wife, son, and two others, were killed in an attack by gunmen in the Olegabulu community of Agatu Local Government Area, Benue State, on Thursday night. According to a local source, four assailants on two motorcycles entered the traditional ruler's residence around 8 pm, shot him and two family members, and then moved to an adjacent house, killing two more people. One person sustained injuries during the 20-minute operation. The source noted that the attackers spoke in the local dialect, initially leading residents not to suspect them. Melvin Ejeh, the Chairman of the local government, confirmed the incident on Friday, stating that five people died and one was injured, and police had visited the scene. The state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, stated she had not yet received the report.
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