From January 27 to 28, 2025, industry experts, policymakers, and stakeholders from across the globe convened at the International Training Centre of the ILO (ITCILO) in Turin, Italy, for a workshop on “Safety & Health in Tanning and Leather Industries.” The event was a joint initiative of the Confederation of National Associations of Tanners and Dressers of the European Community (COTANCE) and IndustriAll Europe, organized by the International Labour Organization (ILO) with funding support from the European Commission’s DG Employment under its Decent Supply Chains projects.
The workshop brought together stakeholders from four continents, including representatives from Cornell University’s ILR School, the European Agency for Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA EU), ILO, UNIDO, IndustriAll Global Union, national employers’ associations, and trade unions.
The key focus of the discussions was on enhancing workplace safety, improving health standards in tanneries, and promoting social dialogue to create a more sustainable and competitive leather industry.
COTANCE, a key advocate for European tanners, shared its expertise on how collaborative efforts between workers, employers, and policymakers can lead to better working conditions. The organization emphasized the benefits of open discussions and cooperation in preventing workplace accidents and ensuring compliance with the highest safety standards.
One of the most anticipated sessions was the presentation of COTANCE’s newly published study, “Accidents/Incidents at the Workplace.”
Conducted under the Green Deal Leather project, the study analyzed workplace accidents in tanneries across Europe. The findings revealed that, contrary to common misconceptions, the leather industry has significantly improved its safety measures, making it much safer than previously believed.
Representatives from UNIC (Italy), VDL (Germany), and Leather UK showcased best practices from their respective national industries.
They presented insider data on accident types, cost implications, and risk mitigation strategies, demonstrating that European tanneries have successfully implemented safety protocols that minimize workplace hazards.
The workshop underscored how European tanneries are leading the way in creating safer, more sustainable, and socially responsible workplaces.
Through continuous improvements in safety training, investment in protective equipment, and strong regulatory frameworks, the leather industry has made remarkable progress in protecting its workforce.
COTANCE reaffirmed its commitment to fostering global collaboration by sharing best practices, advocating for worker safety, and pushing for higher industry standards worldwide. The organization continues to work closely with governments, industry leaders, and labor unions to ensure a safer future for leather workers across the globe.