Thread by @WHO

Today is World Day for Safety & Health at Work

#HealthWorkers are on the frontline of the #COVID19 response & exposed to hazards that put them at risk of infection. Risks incl:
-Pathogen
-Long working hours
-Psychological distress
-Fatigue
-Occupational burnout
-Stigma
-Violence

Major occupational risks for #COVID19 infection among #HealthWorkers are:
-Late diagnosis of #COVID-19 in patients
-Working in a high-risk department
-Long working duty hours
-Insufficient adherence to infection prevention & control measures, e.g. hand hygiene practices

#HealthWorkers infected with #COVID19 after exposure in the workplace should have the right to employment injury benefits for occupational disease, including compensation, rehabilitation, and curative services.

👉 bit.ly/2KGssEQ

In the #COVID19 pandemic, shortage of staff & resources and increasing social tensions result in increased level of violence against #HealthWorkers and even attacks against health care facilities.

👉 bit.ly/2KGssEQ

Doctors, nurses, security personnel and staff who assist in testing #COVID19 patients, tracing their contacts and enforcing physical distancing measures to stop the pandemic often experience threats and aggression.

👉 bit.ly/2KGssEQ

WHO urges governments, employers & workers organizations to institute measures for zero-tolerance to violence against #HealthWorkers on the way to & from work and at work; and to intensify social support & respect for health workers & their families #COVID19

WHO calls for:
-adequate staffing levels and clinical rotation in healthcare facilities
-measures to minimize psychosocial hazards
-provision of access to mental health and psychosocial support for #HealthWorkers

👉 bit.ly/2KGssEQ

WHO calls for developing national occupational health programmes for #HealthWorkers and proving them with adequate occupational health services

👉 bit.ly/2KGssEQ