The Department of Human Resources observed World Day of Health and Safety in the Workplace on April 30, 2024.

Spearheaded by the International Labour Organization (ILO), the day signifies the need to ensure workplaces consistently meet international standards for the health and safety of employees, especially those who work in fields that may incur risk.

This year, World Day of Health and Safety was observed under the theme, “Climate Change and the Workplace, Building Resilience” and was recognised by a virtual panel discussion in the Virgin Islands.

The panel included Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Ronald Georges; Health and Safety Coordinator in the Department of Human Resources, Ms. Rhonexie Anderson; Chief Environmental Health Officer, Mr. Lionel Michael; Prepardness and Planning Manager in the Department of Disaster Management, Ms. Michel Ambrose; Senior Employee Assistance Programme Counsellor, Mr. Cedric Thomas and Assistant Secretary in the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change, Ms. Lynda Varlack.

Deputy Director of the Department of Human Resources, Ms. Kaisa Penn said, “As an organisation, the health and safety of public officers is our number one priority. We have a collective responsibility to ensure that the Public Service is working in safe and productive environments, and we remain committed to this.”

During the discussion, panelists gave input on topics relating to climate change and its impact on today’s workplaces. Health and Safety Coordinator, Ms. Rhonexie Anderson reminded public officers that “safety is rooted in collaboration.”

“The world is rapidly evolving, and climate change is very real. The effects of this on the way we work and the environments we work in are increasing, and we must be ready to respond and adapt as necessary. Observances and discussions like these are vital as we continue to transform the way we work”, Ms. Anderson added.

During the panel discussion, public officers received information on the various impacts of climate change on the workplace, managing risks to foster a healthy work environment and the effects of climate change on mental health.

In 2023, the Department of Human Resources introduced a new strategic plan which outlines the continued monitoring and advancement of the Public Service’s wellness standards.

The Government of the Virgin Islands remains committed to the health and safety of all public officers.