Background to the European Week

European Weeks have been staged every October since the middle of the 1990s. They are held at the European level and at the national level in all member states and always concentrate on one specific topic. The topics covered so far have included prevention of occupational accidents, stress, dangerous substances and construction.

The aim is to raise awareness regarding the spotlight topic through various initiatives, e.g. media/publicity work, conferences/workshops/seminars, dissemination of examples of good practice and initiatives at the workplace.

The European Weeks are actively supported by the Commission, the European Parliament and the social partners. At the European level, they are coordinated by the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work in Bilbao, Spain.
In Germany, the national Focal Point (BMWA, Unit IIIB2) and the national OSH information network coordinate the European Week activities.

The Agency has published a  Fact Sheet  to assist those involved in conducting the national campaigns.

Everyone who deals with OSH issues should participate in the European Weeks.

If you have any questions about participating in the European Week, please contact your national Focal Point.