In Strasbourg, MEPs voted by a large majority (551 votes in favour, 30 against and 110 abstentions) on the morning of Thursday 10 March on the own-initiative report by Marianne Vind (S&D, Denmark) regarding the framework strategy for health and safety at work after 2020, in which they have called for a strengthening of the ‘Vision Zero’ approach.
“The Commission’s ‘Vision Zero’ approach is a very good idea, but we want to extend this vision to all accidents at work”, said the rapporteur in beginning the debate, specifically citing the case of asbestos.
MEPs deplore the fact that the level of ambition of this strategy does not match the objective of the ‘Vision Zero’ approach (see EUROPE 12750/2) and are calling on the European Commission to come forward with “proposals that match this ambition”.
For example, MEPs are calling for a roadmap for reducing accidents and deaths at work, with the provision of funding to enable Member States and companies to achieve the goal of “zero work-related deaths”.
They are calling on the European Commission to address all injuries and accidents as well as the “physical and mental wear and tear” of workers as well as calling for a general strengthening by Member States of workplace inspections and dialogue with social partners.
With the pandemic, MEPs are pushing for the EU institution to quickly come up with a directive on mental health to counteract psychosocial risks, especially with the explosion of remote working. Parliamentarians are once again calling for the right to disconnect.
“It is therefore important that we discuss the right to take leave. The right to be offline. To turn off the computer, turn off the phone, and take time out from it all when you have it. Working from home is not a phenomenon that is going to disappear, and this is a good thing. It provides flexibility, but it is really important that we ensure access to a good working environment at home”, emphasised Ms Vind.
There were no difficulties with the text in the plenary vote. The Identity and Democracy and ECR groups abstained because of the issue over competences and respecting subsidiarity.
To view the report: https://aeur.eu/f/pk (Original version in French by Pascal Hansens)