Tribute to Michael


Scottish Hazards, or a support organisation for families who have lost a loved one, such as Families Against Corporate Killers (FACK). I would normally also urge you to


attend an IWMD ceremony, held in towns and cities across the country. But we are living in unprecedented times, and at the time of writing it is unlikely that these ceremonies will go ahead. Keep an eye on Scottish Hazards’ social media sites and follow #IWMD20 for up-to-date information.


Fight for the living


It is equally important that IWMD is used to reinvigorate efforts to improve health and safety, so that future loss of life can be prevented. The theme of this year’s IWMD is


‘Tackling psychosocial hazards at work – taking the stress out of the job’. Stress is an issue which is likely to be particularly acute this year given the consequences of the coronavirus outbreak. So, don’t wait for 28 April itself, consider this as soon as possible, and seek to signpost people to sources of advice and support, whether that is about financial hardship, mental health


issues, or relationship concerns. Then, in perhaps six months’ time, when the world has hopefully restored some semblance of order, schedule to hold a safety stand-down and take time to consider the issue further.


What conditions in your workplaces or on your worksites contribute to stress, and related conditions such as depression, anxiety, burn-out, work-related alcohol and drug misuse and work-related suicides? And decide what measures you can individually or collectively put in place to combat those issues, whether those be about


SHOWING SUPPORT


Purple forget-me-knot ribbons can be purchased from the Hazards Campaign at the cost of £33 for 100. Proceeds from the sale of ribbons helps support the work of FACK which guides families through investigation and prosecution processes. To find out more about FACK, go to


www.fack.org.uk and to order ribbons, email janet@gmhazards.org.uk


working conditions, hours, locations or otherwise.


Spread the word I said at the outset that I was unaware of IWMD before my wee brother’s death. I’m committed now to raising awareness, because that will help prevent others suffering our same heartache. Michael, or Mickey Tam as he was affectionately known by me, has missed out on 15 years of birthdays so far. So, if you are unable to do anything else to mark IWMD this year, tell 15 other people about it so that awareness of the day grows.


If you do choose to mark the day, thank you and please, please share what you are doing, using the hashtags #IWMD20 and #mickeytam Work should be life-changing in a


positive way. It should never ever be life-ending. Help us continue to build a legacy for


our loved ones, that will live on forever through improved protections that keep you and your family members safe and healthy.


Remember our dead. Fight for the living.


CABLEtalk APRIL/MAY 2020 37


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