World Day for Safety and Health at Work — often referred to as World Safety Day — is an annual international awareness campaign dedicated to promoting occupational safety and health (OSH) in workplaces around the world. It is observed globally on 28 April every year and serves as a focal point to spotlight the importance of safe, healthy, and decent working conditions for all workers.
What Is World Day for Safety and Health at Work?
World Safety Day is an advocacy and awareness initiative championed by the International Labour Organization (ILO) — a United Nations agency responsible for setting international labour standards, promoting rights at work, and advancing decent employment opportunities globally.
The day is rooted in the principle that preventing workplace accidents, occupational diseases, and injuries not only protects human life but fosters sustainable economic growth, social justice, and dignity in work. Activities around the world emphasize tripartism, involving governments, employers, and workers in promoting safety best practices.
History — How and When It Started
The observance was first introduced by the ILO in 2003 as a global tool to raise awareness of occupational safety and health and to give visibility to workers’ well-being worldwide.
The date 28 April also aligns with the International Commemoration Day for Dead and Injured Workers — a tradition dating back to 1996 among workers’ movements, particularly in Canada and other countries where the date is marked as Workers’ Memorial Day.
Since its inception, the campaign has played a pivotal role in highlighting workplace hazards and advocating for the integration of sound OSH systems into national policies and corporate strategies.
World Safety Day: Activities in Kenya Leading Up to 28 April 2026
In Kenya, World Safety Day has grown beyond a single day of recognition to become a week-long observance where public, private, and civil society organizations actively engage in outreach, training, and capacity building.
Role of the Directorate of Occupational Safety and Health Services (DOSHS)
The Directorate of Occupational Safety and Health Services (DOSHS) — a key national agency under the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection — is the national authority mandated to oversee workplace safety and health compliance in Kenya. Its responsibilities include:
Inspecting workplaces and enforcing the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) 2007.
Conducting risk assessments and safety audits.
Promoting public awareness of OSH principles and preventive measures.
In the days before World Safety Day 2026, DOSHS intensifies outreach with workshops, workplace inspections, policy dialogues, and capacity building activities — aimed at ensuring Kenyan workplaces both comply with legal standards and foster a culture of safety beyond compliance.
Awareness Campaigns and Training by Safety Organizations
🔹 Makinika Afrika International
Makinika Afrika International is one of Kenya’s foremost safety training institutions focused on building practical safety skills among workers, first responders, churches, schools, and communities. Its training programs cover:
Fire safety and evacuation.
First aid and emergency response.
Workplace hazard identification and risk reduction.
Leading up to World Safety Day, Makinika Afrika conducts interactive workshops and simulation drills to equip organizations and individuals with the knowledge to prevent incidents and respond effectively in emergencies.
🔹 Nairobi Safety Shop
Nairobi Safety Shop is one of East Africa’s largest suppliers of certified safety equipment and personal protective equipment (PPE). It plays a crucial role during this period by:
Offering special promotions and giveaways on safety gear to encourage investment in workplace protection.
Partnering with safety trainers and industries to ensure workers have access to quality PPE.
Providing pragmatic safety solutions that complement training and compliance efforts.
Championing Safety: Ambassador Steve Mbugua
Ambassador Steve Mbugua is a leading global safety advocate and one of Kenya’s most prominent champions for building a culture of safety. His work spans across multiple fronts:
As a safety training expert, he has been instrumental in organizing and promoting World Safety Day events in Kenya.
He serves as a safety ambassador, inspiring workplaces, institutions, and communities to adopt OSH best practices.
His leadership of Makinika Afrika International and Nairobi Safety Shop has supported training tens of thousands of first aiders and responders nationwide.
Ambassador Mbugua often highlights the importance of ongoing engagement, such as safety drills, hazard identification, PPE use, and behavioral safety training, especially in the week leading up to World Safety Day.
28 April 2026 — World Safety Day Event in Kenya
World Day for Safety and Health at Work 2026 will be officially commemorated on Tuesday, 28 April 2026.
📍 Key Event Locations in Kenya
Eldoret – Uasin Gishu County
These venues will host safety forums, exhibitions, keynote addresses, and interactive sessions involving government officials, safety professionals, employers, workers, and advocates.
What to Expect on the Day
High-level speeches on emerging OSH trends and innovations.
Panel discussions on integrating safety culture in workplaces.
Recognition and awards for organizations demonstrating OSH excellence.
Training workshops and demonstrations by safety trainers and institutions.
Why This Matters — The Impact of OSH Awareness
Work-related accidents and diseases continue to have a devastating human and economic toll, with millions of injuries and more than 2 million deaths occurring worldwide annually.
World Safety Day serves as a critical reminder that:
Safety is everyone’s responsibility — employers, workers, governments, and institutions alike.
Prevention saves lives — proactive measures reduce injury, illness, and loss.
A safety culture boosts productivity and morale, creating more resilient organizations.
Conclusion — Building a Culture of Safety
World Day for Safety and Health at Work 2026 is more than a calendar date — it is a movement toward safer, healthier work environments for all. It unites global influence (via the ILO), national commitment (through DOSHS and government agencies), the inspiration of change agents (such as Ambassador Steve Mbugua), and practical action from safety leaders like Nairobi Safety Shop and Makinika Afrika International.
Whether you are an employer, worker, safety professional, student, or concerned citizen, this yearly awareness campaign offers an opportunity to act, educate, and empower — because safety isn’t optional… it’s essential.
