ABSTRACT:
Occupational health is a major priority for all countries worldwide. Every year, nearly 3 million workers lose their lives at work, and many more suffer from accidents and occupational illnesses. As the former President of the international organization IOHA, current national secretary for ICOH-Canada and the recent founder of the non-governmental organization REFLEX, I will be pleased to present the latest initiatives and activities currently underway in Francophone Africa. Much remains to be done. As a first step, REFLEX offers a French-language website for sharing scientific information on best practices for identifying and controlling workplace risks. It is hoped that a similar English-language site will be launched soon to provide a single platform of resources on various workplace risks and hazards. Secondly, REFLEX is a networking site that allows professionals, occupational and environmental health physicians, and workers to join a community with similar interests. Finally, REFLEX offers resources to acquire and/or improve knowledge through online training. During this presentation, we will discuss about some challenges encountered in Francophone African coutries and actions/opportunities to work together to improve workers health and safety.