Minister of Labour, Social Security and the Third Sector, Colin Jordan, is urging Barbadians to prioritise achieving balance between mental, physical and work demands, noting that worker wellness is essential to national productivity and development.
Speaking at the Safety 360 Conference, which took place on Thursday, April 23, Minister Jordan stressed that modern occupational safety and health must extend beyond traditional measures to include mental and emotional well-being.
“Safety today is no longer only about policies, procedures and protective equipment. It is about people, awareness, balance, and ensuring that every worker returns home not only safely, but well,” he stated.
Mr. Jordan pointed out that there are stressors which exist at multiple levels, including in homes, communities and workplaces, and these stressors were increasingly intensified by global uncertainties and technological demands.
He noted that the “world of work” now extends beyond physical workplaces, with technology blurring boundaries and contributing to mental fatigue.
Emphasising a people-centred approach, the Minister said that productivity cannot be achieved if workers are not holistically well. “We cannot be fully productive if we are only physically well, but not mentally well, not emotionally well, not spiritually well,” he said, adding that human beings must be treated differently from other elements of production.
Reference was also made to the National Workplace Wellness Policy, which was developed in collaboration with the Barbados Workers’ Union. He noted that mental wellness was a key pillar in promoting healthier and more resilient workplaces.
He further stressed the importance of social dialogue and genuine collaboration between employers and employees, describing it as being essential to addressing workplace challenges and fostering sustainable development.
“Protection without production is unsustainable, but production without protection is equally untenable. The balance must be found,” Mr. Jordan remarked.
Encouraging participants to use the conference as a platform for meaningful engagement, he called for practical solutions, knowledge sharing and a collective commitment to improving workplace environments across Barbados.
The Safety 360 Conference forms part of activities marking World Day for Safety and Health at Work, observed annually on April 28.
