The plenary session of the European Parliament has requested this Thursday to establish a European day dedicated to the memory of victims of occupational accidents and diseases, while calling for the reinforcement of policies for the prevention and protection of employees against emerging risks linked to artificial intelligence, heatwaves, and climate change.
The resolution, supported by 395 votes in favor, 12 against, and 41 abstentions, proposes setting August 8 as the "European Day in Memory of Victims of Occupational Accidents and for the Protection and Dignity of Workers," with the aim of raising awareness about workplace safety and promoting concrete prevention actions in educational centers, companies, and administrations.
MEPs emphasize that this commemoration, which coincides with the anniversary of the Bois du Cazier mining disaster in Marcinelle (Belgium), where 262 miners from different European countries died in 1956, would help keep alive the memory of people who have lost their lives or health due to occupational accidents and diseases in the EU and consolidate a genuine culture of prevention and safety in the workplace.
In this context, the European Parliament focuses on occupational risks arising from digitalization and asks the European Commission to analyze the impact of artificial intelligence and algorithmic management systems on the health and safety of staff.
MEPs warn that digital platform workers and those who carry out their work under supervision or evaluation through AI-based tools may face an increase in risks due to the intensification of work paces and possible abusive practices of automated surveillance and control.
The Parliament also calls for reinforced protection against the effects of climate change and asks Brussels to specifically study the labor consequences of thermal stress, extreme weather events, and air pollution.
In particular, MEPs demand that extreme heat and the repercussions of climate change be recognized as primary occupational risk factors and call for more effective prevention and protection measures in workplaces, with special attention to the most exposed employees.
The resolution also emphasizes the need to strengthen labor inspection systems and calls on Member States to guarantee labor inspections stable staff, sufficient resources, and institutional independence to ensure safe and healthy work environments.
According to the latest data handled by the European Parliament, in 2023, 3,298 fatal work accidents and nearly 2.8 million non-fatal incidents occurred in the EU that caused at least four days of sick leave, with a special incidence in high-risk sectors such as construction, transport, manufacturing industry, and agriculture.