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            Baku Higher Oil School (BHOS) and Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of the Azerbaijan Republic (MLSPP) conducted a joint presentation of Vision Zero (“zero fatality, serious casualty and occupational disease”) concept developed by International Social Security Association (ISSA). Vision Zero aims to engage companies worldwide to systematically cut down on occupational accidents and diseases by investing in a healthy and motivated workforce.

 

            The event gathered BHOS Rector Elmar Gasimov, ISSA president Joachim Breuer, Deputy Minister of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of Azerbaijan Metin Kerimli, MLSPP’s managers and heads of departments, and representatives from companies operating in the country. Opening the meeting with a welcome speech, Elmar Gasimov emphasized that irrespective of the causes of industrial accidents they lead to serious consequences for both employees and organizations. Speaking about importance of the prevention of accidents and occupational diseases and raising public awareness of the subject, the Rector welcomed the ISSA new initiative and thanked MLSPP management for organizing the presentation at the Higher School.

 

              In the words of the Deputy Minister of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of Azerbaijan Metin Kerimli, industrial accidents occur when safety rules, procedures and regulations are violated. As he emphasized, occupational injuries can be avoided by creating safe working conditions, undertaking preventive measures and raising awareness of issues related to health and safety at industrial facilities. These are the main goals of the Vision Zero concept, and we need to take practical steps to make this vision a reality, said Metin Kermili. Speaking about the Ministry activities in this field, he reported that MLSPP constantly improves monitoring of the working conditions in industries based on innovative methods and conducts necessary prevention work and awareness raising campaigns.

 

                 Then the president of the International Social Security Association, Director General of the German Social Accident Insurance (DGUV) Joachim Breuer made a presentation about the Vision Zero concept. This initiative stands for the belief that any workplace accident or a disease is not bad luck or predetermined but has specific causes, he said. In his words, ISSA launches Vision Zero, which is the first ever global campaign for zero accidents, diseases and harm at work, to improve safety, health and wellbeing of employees around the world. The ISSA president also spoke about Seven Golden Rules provided by Vision Zero to companies and organizations to support a more systematic and integrated approach to prevention. Together with the other campaign material they form a practical toolbox for companies to build a strong workplace prevention culture, said Joachim Breuer. After the presentation, he answered numerous questions.

           

              In conclusion, the Rector Elmar Gasimov presented ISSA president Joachim Breuer with the BHOS Honorary Guest Diploma. After the presentation, the guests were given a tour around the campus and acquainted with the conditions created there for students, its modern training laboratories and education, sports and leisure facilities.

 

              The International Social Security Association founded in 1927 is the world’s leading international organization for social security institutions, government departments and agencies. The ISSA promotes excellence in social security administration through professional guidelines, expert knowledge and support to enable its members to develop dynamic social security systems and policy throughout the world.