Workplace Safety Must Go Beyond Physical Protection

Workplace safety is no longer just about preventing physical injuries, it must also protect the mental, emotional and social wellbeing of workers, says Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, Honourable Agni Deo Singh.

Speaking at the World Day for Safety and Health at Work 2026 celebration at the Suva Civic Centre this morning, Mr Singh said psychosocial risks are now emerging as some of the most serious workplace challenges in Fiji.

“Psychosocial risks such as stress, anxiety, burnout and workplace conflict are becoming major occupational health concerns,” he said.

Mr Singh noted that workers across the country are facing increasing pressures, including long working hours, heavy workloads, job insecurity and workplace tension.

“If left unaddressed, these pressures can reduce productivity, increase absenteeism and raise the risk of workplace accidents,” he said.

As part of this year’s commemorations, the Ministry held breakout sessions in Labasa and Ba, bringing together employers, workers and government representatives to discuss real workplace issues.

The sessions revealed concerns over poor communication, unfair treatment, inconsistent pay and growing pressure in key sectors such as healthcare, education and tourism.

Mr Singh said these challenges are not just workplace issues, but also affect families and communities.

“Workplace stress does not stay at work, it follows workers home and impacts their overall wellbeing,” he said.

He stressed that creating a healthy psychosocial working environment is a shared responsibility.

“Employers have a legal duty to ensure workers are protected not only from physical harm, but also from stress, bullying and excessive workload,” he said.

He added that workers must also take responsibility by following safety procedures and raising concerns when necessary.

Mr Singh said the Government remains committed to strengthening workplace protections through existing laws such as the Health and Safety at Work Act 1996 and the Employment Relations Act 2007.

He also highlighted plans to introduce new regulations and practical guidance to help employers better manage psychosocial risks.

“Psychosocial wellbeing is not an abstract concept, it is a daily reality that affects the dignity and lives of workers,” he said.

The World Day for Safety and Health at Work is marked globally on April 28 each year by the International Labour Organization to promote safe and healthy working environments.

Mr Singh officially declared the 2026 programme open, calling on all stakeholders to work together to build safer, healthier and more supportive workplaces in Fiji.