Occupational health care belongs to the safety network of working life

The Finnish Association of Occupationanal Health Nurses celebrates its 60th anniversary this year. A number of authors have contributed to its anniversary publication, reflecting both on the present and future challenges, trends and developments of the branch and society.

The Finnish Association of Occupationanal Health Nurses belongs to the Confederation of Unions for Professional and Managerial Staff in Finland Akava. Consequently, contributions to the anniversary publication were also invited from Akava management.

Mr Matti Viljanen, the president of the Confederation of Unions for Professional and Managerial Staff in Finland Akava, stresses the importance of occupational health care  as a crucial part of the safety network of working life. The continuous changes in today's working life are reflected on the work of occupational health care nurses.

Mr Viljanen, points out occupational health care has a broader scope of tasks than previously, with a focus In preventive care. According to him, service and spcialist work have become more and more common in Finland. As a consequence, the concept of work ability now encompasses mental functional capacity and mental health protection. This aspect of occupational health care naturally has a special meaning for Akava members - both as providers and users of occupational health services.

Mr Markku Lemmetty, director of Confederation of Unions for Professional and Managerial Staff Akava, discusses current labour market issues, negotiation system and Akava's role in the safeguarding of interest in his contribution. Even if the time income policy seems to be over and negotiations now take place on local, rather than national level, Akava goes on with its work to safeguard the interests of Akava members. The organization principle in Akava, which is based on profession and education, has proven to be a successful concept for both the individual members and Akava as a confederation.

Both the articles are available as pdf files on this page.

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