It was an insightful and impactful outing yesterday as members of our forum gathered for the monthly general meeting, which featured a thought-provoking lecture on the theme: “Safety and Health at Work: A Fundamental Human Right.”
The guest speaker, Dr. Idih Ngozi Maureen Ihunna, a distinguished academic and Director of the Centre for Gender Studies, Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Owerri, Imo State, delivered a compelling presentation that resonated deeply with attendees.
Dr. Ihunna emphasized that safety and health at work are not merely occupational standards but core human rights essential for the dignity, well-being, and productivity of workers.
She pointed out that this right is enshrined in numerous international human rights instruments, thereby placing a duty on employers and institutions to uphold these standards.
She defined health as “a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” According to her, this broad definition underscores the importance of a holistic approach to workplace wellness.
Focusing on the legal profession, Dr. Ihunna highlighted that lawyers, like all professionals, require a work environment that is safe, healthy, and conducive to mental and physical stability.
Such an environment should shield legal practitioners from physical, financial, and psychological hazards, ensuring optimal performance and career longevity.
She urged law firms and institutions employing lawyers to:
- Maintain clean and hazard-free workspaces,
- Identify potential workplace risks,
- Conduct regular risk assessments, and
- Enforce robust safety and wellness policies.
The meeting concluded on a high note, with members deeply appreciative of the knowledge shared and the relevance of the topic to their daily professional lives.
It was indeed a successful and enlightening session that reinforced the importance of prioritizing occupational health and safety in the legal profession.
Signed:
Publicity Secretary
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