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Does older workers’ exposure to occupational risks play a role in keeping them in employment? This is one of the questions addressed in the latest report from Eurofound, the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions, entitled “Working conditions and sustainable work – Keeping older workers in employment“.
This research report highlights the direct link between cumulative exposure to occupational risks and the likelihood of early exit from the labour market for older workers. For example, exposure to posture-related risks, caused by carrying heavy loads and the pace of work, would contribute to early retirement decisions. Furthermore, among older workers (aged 55 and over), over 70% of healthcare professionals and over 60% of catering professionals are exposed to high levels of physical risks, such as noise or chemicals.
More broadly, the ageing workforce is presented as a new challenge for occupational health and safety. In view of this, the report presents a number of national actions taken by member states, analyzes the differences in quality of work across sectors for older workers, and provides general pointers for improving workers’ health and safety.
