Työperäiset

Työperäiset is Finnish for conditions, effects, or factors that originate in or are caused by work. The word combines the noun työ (work) with the suffix -peräinen, which denotes relation or origin. The plural form työperäiset is used as an adjective to describe multiple items, such as työperäiset sairaudet (occupational diseases), työperäiset vammat (work-related injuries), or työperäiset riskit (work-related risks).

In practice, työperäiset refers to diseases, injuries, or health effects that are caused or significantly aggravated by work-related exposures or activities. This can include physical hazards (noise, vibration), chemical exposures, ergonomic factors (repetitive movements, poor posture), and psychosocial stressors arising from work. Not every health issue occurring at or around work is automatically considered work-related; assessing the causal link between work and the health effect is a central part of evaluation.

In Finland and many other countries, work-related conditions are central to occupational health and safety regulation and to the workers’ compensation system. Employers have responsibilities to identify and control work-related risks, and employees or their representatives can report suspected work-related illnesses or injuries to occupational health services or relevant insurance authorities. National statistics on work-related illnesses and injuries are collected by health and safety agencies, and classifications typically distinguish work-related conditions from those with non-occupational origins.