Toronto – November 3, 2020 – UFCW Canada recently attended the World Congress on Safety and Health at Work, which brought together activists and thought leaders from across the globe to discuss strategies for advancing worker health and safety in the era of COVID-19.

Held online in early October, this year’s congress featured a special session on the coronavirus pandemic and occupational health and safety. The virtual event also explored innovations in addressing COVID-19, the changing world of work, preparing for decent work through health and safety, and work injury insurance as they relate to the COVID-19 pandemic.

During the sessions, UFCW Canada was recognized as a global leader among labour unions for our efforts to keep members safe throughout the coronavirus crisis.

An expert panel examining the culture of prevention also praised the work of UFCW Local Unions, members, and the UFCW Canada National Office for the proactive steps that our union took to protect members in UFCW bargaining units during and after the initial phases of the pandemic. 

It was observed that many employers do not know how to keep their workers safe during this unprecedented time, highlighting the need for interventions from governments, labour unions, and other stakeholders who have an interest in protecting the health and safety of working people.

The congress also noted that many of the health and safety protections that UFCW members were able to achieve during COVID-19 have become industry standards during this public health crisis and are now considered the new normal in Canada.

The next World Congress on Safety and Health at Work will be held in Toronto from September 19 to 22, 2021. To learn more about the congress, click here.