Italy holds States General on workplace safety as President warns of emergency

Italian President Sergio Mattarella has characterized workplace accidents and fatalities as ‘one of the most serious emergencies in our country.’ In a message delivered to the States General on Workplace Safety, Mattarella emphasized the profound human impact of these tragedies on families and communities.

The President identified the fragmentation of contracts and subcontracts as a structural issue that complicates the assignment of responsibility and undermines safety standards. To address these challenges, he proposed three main pillars: rigorous inspections, adequate training, and the promotion of a widespread safety culture throughout the production chain, potentially leveraging new technologies.

The States General on Workplace Safety is scheduled to take place from October 20 to 22 at the Chamber of Deputies. The three-day event, organized by the Parliamentary Commission of Inquiry into Working Conditions, will bring together institutions, oversight bodies, social partners, and researchers. Key participants include Labor Minister Marina Calderone and various representatives from INAIL, INPS, and law enforcement agencies. Discussions will also cover the impact of artificial intelligence on labor protections and the regulation of new employment forms.