The Lagos State Safety Commission has called for a shift in workplace safety standards to include mental wellbeing, as Lagos joined the global community to mark the World Day for Safety and Health at Work.
Director-General of the Commission, Lanre Mojola, said the 2026 commemoration underscores the urgent need to expand safety frameworks beyond physical protection to address psychosocial risks in the workplace.
In a statement issued by the Director of Public Affairs, Adewunmi Okoh, Mojola described the annual observance as a crucial platform for governments, employers and workers to reinforce commitments to safer and healthier work environments.
He noted that despite increased awareness, work-related accidents and occupational illnesses remain a significant global concern, requiring continuous action and innovation.
According to him, this year’s theme, “Good Psychosocial Working Environments: A Pathway to Thriving Workers and Strong Organisations,” places emphasis on tackling workplace stressors linked to job design and organisational culture.
Mojola explained that factors such as excessive workload, poor communication, lack of support and weak reward systems contribute to psychosocial hazards, which can negatively affect both employee wellbeing and productivity.
He urged organisations to adopt a more people-centred approach, stressing that workers should be treated as partners rather than mere resources.
“Workplace safety must go beyond physical measures to include mental wellbeing, clear roles, manageable workloads and a supportive organisational culture,” he said.
The Safety Commission boss advocated flexible work arrangements and respect for work-life boundaries, warning against practices that compel employees to remain engaged outside official working hours.
He also called for the introduction of Employee Assistance Programmes, counselling services and stress management initiatives to help prevent burnout and improve overall performance.
Mojola reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to strengthening safety culture through the adoption of modern tools and proactive strategies aimed at reducing workplace incidents.
He urged stakeholders to use the occasion to reassess existing safety protocols and invest in systems that protect lives while enhancing productivity.
According to him, achieving safe and healthy workplaces requires collective responsibility, sustained commitment and continuous learning.
The annual observance, championed globally by the International Labour Organization and the United Nations, continues to spotlight evolving workplace risks, with increasing attention on mental health and psychosocial wellbeing as critical components of occupational safety.
