Seven agencies signed a memorandum of cooperation on Thursday to promote health and well-being in the workplace and prevent occupational risks and work-related diseases.
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha presided over the signing of the agreement between the Interior, Labour, Public Health and Industry ministries, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, the Federation of Thai Industries and the Private Hospital Association.
Gen Prayut said the labour force plays a vital role in propelling the economy and the country's development which is why the government has attached importance to improving the workforce of about 51 million.
It is important to prevent work-related ailments, particularly chronic diseases which impose long-term financial pressure on individuals and the state coffers. Addressing chronic diseases will help save on budget which can then be spent on development in other areas, Gen Prayut said.
Deputy Prime Minister and Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said the government has assigned the Public Health Ministry to work with other agencies and the private sector to promote workplace well-being and ensure employees have good health, incomes, and live long lives.
He said a study found that non-communicable diseases -- such as diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases -- were the cause of death for at least three-quarters of the working population.
Mr Anutin said collaboration between the seven agencies will reduce duplication in their work due to the linking and sharing of their databases on promoting workplace health and preventing diseases.
The seven agencies have also worked with their allies and the Thai Health Promotion Foundation to develop a set of guidelines of activities to promote employee health and well-being.
The guidelines include tips on how to get in shape, how to be mentally healthy, how to prepare for retirement, how to overcome office syndrome and healthcare for foreign workers.