IMSS's ELSSA Program Enhances Workplace Health, Safety

The Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS) has made significant strides in improving workplace health and safety since launching the Safe and Healthy Work Environments (ELSSA) program in May 2022. The initiative, developed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, has integrated nearly 4 million workers and over 12,000 companies, emphasizing accident prevention and the adoption of healthy habits, as reported by IMSS.

The institute has provided more than 87,000 advisory services to workplaces, says Rebeca Velasco, Head of the Coordination of Occupational Health, IMSS. These consultations are optional, free, and non-punitive.

“IMSS developed ELSSA to transform the workplace environment by offering virtual training activities, deploying preventive strategies within companies, offering spaces for workers to exercise or stretch, identifying working risks, and even changing the offered meals and drinks for healthier options,” says Olga Martínez, Normative Coordinator at the directorate of Economic and Social Benefits, IMSS, to MBN.

Workplace injuries, particularly those involving hands and ankles, remain prevalent in Mexico. In 2023 alone, there were over 45,000 injuries involving wounds, trauma, sprains, and dislocations, among others. Velasco highlights that ELSSA aims to significantly reduce accidents and occupational diseases.

"The program is paving the way for reduced accidents and illnesses in workplaces," says Velasco. "ELSSA will undoubtedly have a substantial impact on the working population."

The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of employee health. In 2020, out of 20 million workers, half had health conditions that made them vulnerable to severe complications from the virus. This led to the creation of ELSSA, which aims to provide tools for companies to monitor and care for their workers' health.

“With the implementation of the ELSSA Seal, it became even more difficult to fail to comply with occupational health and safety obligations, as deadlines and inspections will become even more stringent,” writes Eduardo Madeiros, CEO, Welbe, on MBN.