The Executive Committee of the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC) recently adopted a resolution on the future European health and safety strategy. The European trade union movement states in the resolution that it will not accept a decision by the Commission not to adopt a strategy for the period 2013-2020.

According to the resolution, that strategy should be adopted and should focus on two key areas. The first is the strengthening of prevention structures through the consolidation of workers’ representation for health and safety, as well as labour inspections, and the development of independent and competent prevention services. The second area concerns prevention of the negative effects of working conditions on health. It requires more systematic action for the prevention of chemical risks, and in particular work-related cancers, prevention of musculoskeletal disorders and more systematic consideration of psycho-social factors.

The resolution proposes to reinforce cooperation and common trade union initiatives throughout 2012.