The primary objective was to enhance the implementation of the decent work agenda, with a particular emphasis on improving occupational health and safety (OSH) arrangements in the metal industry.
The project aimed to bring focus to occupational safety and health as a core element of decent work. Improving health and safety at workplaces benefits workers, employers, and society as a whole by preventing exclusion, reducing costs for both workers and employers, and fostering mutual trust. The project also sought to improve cooperation between employers, employees, and controlling bodies in company and sectoral-level policymaking. This included preventing accidents and fostering the implementation of OSH procedures adapted to changes in the labour market. Updating the knowledge and skills of health and safety officers was a key component, along with awareness-raising activities aimed at informing the general public about the benefits of decent work and the role of relevant OSH procedures. Particular focus was placed on vulnerable groups, including young workers, migrant workers, and women.
The project was divided into four main elements: a study visit to Norway to get acquainted with the Nordic Model of social dialogue, the development of a "Decent Work Manual for H&S Officers," training and cooperation sessions on the implementation of the decent work agenda, and an awareness-raising campaign. The study visit included meetings with Norwegian actors involved in shaping decent working conditions, the manual covered key points of the decent work agenda, the training sessions focused on among others the ILO Global Strategy on Occupational Safety and Health. The cooperation workshops brought together representatives of trade unions, health and safety officers, employers, national authorities, and labour inspectors. The awareness-raising campaign included seminars, a project website, an animated video, social media profiles, and press releases.