Within the aim of the IPA project, on 17 March 2022, EU OSHA organised the IV informal webinar on the topic of Long COVID with the purpose to keep sharing OSH knowledge and best practice with OSH representatives in the IPA region.

Long COVID is an acute infection that prevents workers from doing normal occupational activities. Workers and employers working together is key for a return to work that is most productive for all concerned.

Following a welcome and an opening speech by EU OSHA Interim Executive Director, Mr William Cockburn, Mr Ioannis Anyfantis (EU OSHA project manager) introduced the contents of the latest EU OSHA publications “COVID-19 infection and long COVID – guide for managers” and “COVID-19 infection and long COVID – guide for workers“; Dr Karen Michell (IOSH) provided information and best pratice on “Managing workers return to work with Long COVID“; and Dr Mehmet Erdem Alagüney (occupational disease specialist from Turkey) shared his experiences on “The effects of the Long COVID on occupational health“. An open discussion followed the speakers’ presentations where participants – representing EU Delegations, IPA and EU Member States Focal Points and IPA OSH organisations – had the opportunity to share their OSH experiences and perspectives from around the Region and could interact with the speakers.

The event was very succesful since it contributed to raise OSH awareness among the participants and provided a virtual platform for an interactive exchange and to enhance regional communication. The event was attended by more than 60 participants.