The International Labor Organization (ILO) established April 28 as World Day for Safety and Health at Work in “commemoration of workers who suffered accidents, illnesses or died” and “to publicize the risks of injuries and occupational diseases, and to promote their prevention ”.
"Prevention" is the key word to take care of your well-being in the workplace. The ILO, MedWorks - the largest network of occupational doctors in Latin America -, Uhma Salud - wellness and occupational health blog - and the Consejo Nacional Mexicano de Medicina del Trabajo, AC, agree that we should take the following measures to prevent risks, avoid damage to health and promote a harmonious environment at work.
- Stress is the main enemy of your well-being in the workplace, it even reduces productivity. You have to take breaks from day to day, get up from your seat and walk a bit or take deep breaths. Some companies now even offer a few minutes of massage or yoga practice to their employees, so they can de-stress during the day.
- Eat breakfast every day, never skip the first meal because your physical and mental performance will be affected.
- Get involved in the Prevention of Occupational Risks in your center. Participate in the formation of brigades.
- Identify the risks inside and outside your work area.
- It fosters a positive work environment with communication, assertiveness, support and participation in the common tasks of your company or business.
- Do not postpone your vacations, they are the best way to spend quality time with your family and friends and help to regain energy and release stress.
- If you work outdoors, protect yourself from the sun with hats or UV filters greater than 20 SPF. Avoid exposing yourself to solar radiation between 12 and 16 hours.
- Protect yourself from work accidents with disability insurance or plan your retirement with savings.
In addition, Dr. Benjamín Villaseñor, from Uhma Salud, a blog specialized in well-being and occupational health, suggests:
- Adequate ambient light. Use white or blue light as it prevents fatigue. Natural light is good, but there must be tinted windows, curtains or filters that regulate the intensity to avoid large changes throughout the day or in the different seasons of the year.
- Keep your space clean and tidy. You will easily find your work material and avoid allergies caused by dust.
- Keep the noise level low, if your work allows it, put on quiet music at a low volume or use headphones at a moderate volume.
- Make sure you have healthy food on hand. You can place a basket with fruit to snack on mid-morning or mid-afternoon.
Finally: Work hard, but never forget that you are a person who must always take care of his integrity.
