The union cites the example of its Pembrokeshire County branch, which used UNISON safety campaign materials to up the profile of the issue. And in the process it recruited 16 more health and safety reps, a new branch health and safety officer, while safety representatives were planning more inspections and local health and safety training.

The focus for International Workers’ Memorial Day is on strong laws, strong enforcement and strong unions. A union spokesperson advises workers to organise a workplace event, and perhaps jointly with their employers.

“Use the day to reinvigorate the campaign for better health and safety or to discuss a workplace health and safety concern with members, non-members and the employer. Many UNISON branches have successfully organised and recruited around local health and safety concerns,” the public sector union spokesperson added.