Module 8.Green work environments in the context of occupational safety and health /free/

Report “Green jobs and occupational safety and health: Foresight on new and emerging risks associated with new technologies by 2020”

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The “Green jobs and occupational safety and health: Foresight on new and emerging risks associated with new technologies by 2020” is a report published by the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OSHA). The report focuses on identifying emerging occupational health and safety risks associated with new technologies in green jobs by the year 2020.

The report begins by defining the terms “green work” and “new technologies.” Green work refers to jobs that contribute to reducing the environmental impact of companies and the economy in general, while new technologies refer to emerging technology that can change the way jobs are carried out.

The report looks at a wide range of technologies in green jobs, including renewable energy, biotechnology, nanotechnology, and information and communication technology (ICT). Emerging risks associated with these technologies are identified and recommendations are offered to prevent or minimize the risks.

Among the risks identified are exposure to hazardous chemicals in the production of biofuels, exposure to nanoparticles in the manufacture of solar panels, and exposure to electromagnetic radiation in the use of ICTs. Possible long-term effects on workers’ health are discussed and specific recommendations are offered to minimize these risks.

In addition, the report addresses the issue of gender in occupational health and safety in green jobs. Women are identified as being underrepresented in many green jobs and, as a result, may be exposed to different occupational hazards than men. Recommendations are offered to promote gender equality in green jobs and to address specific occupational hazards for women.

The report also highlights the importance of research and innovation in identifying and preventing emerging risks in green jobs. Emphasis is placed on the need for effective collaboration between research, industry and workers to ensure that research and innovation translate into safe practices in the workplace.

In conclusion, ” Foresight of New and Emerging risks to Occupational Safety and Health associated with New Technologies in Green Jobs by 2020″ is an important and useful report for those involved in green jobs and occupational health and safety. The report highlights emerging risks associated with new technologies and offers specific, practical recommendations to minimize these risks. In addition, the important gender issue in occupational health and safety in green jobs is addressed and the need for effective collaboration between research, industry and workers to ensure safe practices in the workplace is highlighted.