10 OSH principles for decent work

The world of work is evolving rapidly, with new technologies, new ways of working, flexible working patterns and evolving risks. With this in hand, IOSH will communicative what ‘good OSH’ is and how to measure it, ensuring that safety and health remain at the heart of sustainable development and human rights.

IOSH’s 10 guided principles: 

1. Injury and ill health at work is preventable.
2. Workers’ safety and health are embedded in rights frameworks and are vital components of sustainable development.
3. Accountability Accountability and enforcement create a deterrent against poor safety, health and wellbeing practices at work and help to build sustainable practices.
4. Good occupational safety, health and wellbeing is built upon a combination of leadership, commitment and policy.
5. Collaboration Collaborative approaches involving all appropriate stakeholders, including workers and representatives, create more resilient and comprehensive safety, health and wellbeing systems.
6. Risk-led and evidence-driven approaches facilitate proactive, proportionate responses to existing and future OSH issues.
7. Knowledge provision Free and open information exchange of trustworthy information creates shared knowledge and understanding of occupational safety, health and wellbeing.
8. Accurate and relevant data can be used to inform action, support learning and make improvements to safety, health and wellbeing.
9. Protective and rehabilitative systems protect workers after injury or ill health and support their sustainable return.
10. Recognising the diversity of OSH needs and respecting difference ensures more equitable systems that protect all workers.

Why This Matters for Businesses

Having these in place is not just about compliance but about creating stronger, more resilient and more profitable businesses. This is why having them in place is good for businesses:

Improved productivity and performance: 

Safe and healthy workplaces reduce the risk of accidents, illnesses and downtime. When employee’s feel secure they work more efficiently, making less errors, and maintaining good concentration. This helps to boost overall performance.

Reduced costs from accidents and illnesses: 

Applying the 10 OSH principles helps to prevent costs like compensation, medical bills, staff replacement and lost working time. Thids helps by tackling hazards at the source and promoting a culture of prevention.

Higher Employee Engagement and Retention: 

A safe and respectful workplace signals that the employer values their workforce. This leads to stronger morale, job satisfaction, and loyalty. Reduced turnover means less money spent on recruitment and training.

Stronger Legal and Regulatory Compliance:

Following OSH principles ensures alignment with national laws and international labour standards. Businesses avoid penalties, lawsuits, and reputational damage that come with non-compliance.

Enhanced Company Reputation and Trust:

Customers, investors, and partners increasingly evaluate businesses on social responsibility and sustainability. Companies that prioritize decent work and OSH are seen as ethical, trustworthy, and forward-looking, helping to attract contracts, investment, and top talent.

Supports Innovation and Continuous Improvement:

OSH principles encourage systematic risk assessment, consultation, and collaboration. This culture of problem-solving often sparks innovation, leading to safer processes, better technologies, and smarter ways of working.

Contribution to Sustainable Development Goals:

By embedding OSH, businesses contribute to SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being). This strengthens sustainability reporting, which is increasingly required by stakeholders and global markets.

How we can help:

We can help businesses with OSH principles in many ways varying from risk assessments, COSHH assessments, Audits and regular ongoing monitoring/support, Policies, HR guidance, Recommend and implement control measures, Deliver training in a variety of ways from in person to online interactive courses to suit you.

If your business needs support in preparing environmental documents – Get in touch with us today, to ensure you have the right measures in place now – not later.