Did you know that your employer has some general duties in order to guarantee your safety and well-being at work? And some very specific duties to minimise your exposure against cancer-causing agents? On February 4th, World Cancer Day, the Roadmap on Carcinogens urges businesses and workers to take responsibility for creating a safe work environment.
Cancer caused by workplace exposure to carcinogens is a significant yet often overlooked occupational hazard. Workers in industries such as manufacturing, construction, agriculture, and healthcare may face higher risks due to prolonged exposure to these harmful agents. And did you know that also hairdressers and cleaners can also be exposed to cancer-causing agents in their working environment?
Rights and duties employers and employees
Employers are legally and ethically obligated to minimize these risks through safety measures, following the STOP-strategy. Early detection and prevention is critical. A clear overview of the rights & duties of employers and employees can now be found on the following webpage:
> Learn more about rights & duties
The overview of rights and duties follows the risk assessment and basics of the STOP-principle. On every level it shows the rights and duties for employers, but also for employees: employers must provide information and adequate measures to protect workers from exposure to (carcinogenic) substances, and employees must follow the instructions and use the measures at their disposal.
United by unique
World Cancer Day’s theme is ‘united by unique’: all cancer patients share the diagnosis, but their story is unique. The same applies to workers or ex-workers that suffer from cancer caused by exposure to hazardous substances at work. Their unique stories are united by the fact that this could have been prevented.
By understanding the dangers of workplace carcinogens and taking proactive measures, we can reduce the incidence of occupational cancer and create safer work environments for everyone! Start by visiting this website to learn more about the risks and substances and take action!
