Development of research agenda in occupational health in R.N. Macedonia through international cooperation

Abstract

Networking in occupational health (OH) helps to advance knowledge and strengthen research and development. International organizations (ILO, WHO, ICOH) and EC put focus on different aspects of OH. This paper aims to elaborate development of research agenda in OH in R.N. Macedonia through international cooperation. Material and methods. Online search strategy revealed that UN Agenda 2030 addresses OH within Sustainable Development Goal 8 - to achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all; and to protect labor rights and promote safe and secure working environments for all workers. ICOH aims to foster scientific progress, knowledge, and development of OH in all aspects. Moreover, the European Cooperation in Science and Technology (EU funding organization COST) helps researchers and innovators to create networks, to offer open space for collaboration among scientists across Europe, and to give impetus to address scientific, technological and societal challenges. Results. Researchers from the Institute of Occupational Health in Skopje participated in COST Action TD 1206 (StanDerm), bringing together experts from 28 countries to set common standards on prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of occupational skin diseases. COST Action CA16216 (OMEGA-NET) had a concept to create network to harmonize occupational, industrial, and population cohorts in Europe. Researcher Mental Health Observatory (ReMO) guidelines were used to develop actions to improve researcher mental health in R.N. Macedonia. To strengthen resilience of health workers in South-eastern Europe in response to COVID-19 and beyond, WHO/ILO guidance were implemented. ICOH was used as a platform for training and education of experts in order to face the rapidly changing world of work. Conclusions. Networking in OH has to provide an enhanced evidence base for identification of health risks related to occupation to foster safe and healthy preventive strategies.