Joining forces to improve the safety and health of workers worldwide

A lack of investment in occupational safety and health (OSH) leads to significant human tragedies and economic losses. Every day, 7,500 workers die from work-related causes: 6,500 from diseases and 1,000 from occupational accidents. Also, almost 4% of the world’s annual GDP is lost due to these preventable incidents.

Safety + Health for All focuses on prevention to promote a safe and healthy working environment, which is a fundamental principle and right at work. The ILO flagship programme mobilizes governments, employers’ and workers’ organizations, and other key stakeholders to implement strategic interventions at all levels in a fast-evolving world of work. By 2022, Safety + Health for All has benefited, directly or indirectly, over 182 million workers in 23 countries.

The actions target workers in vulnerable conditions, such as female, young, and migrant workers, as well as those in hazardous sectors such as agriculture and construction. Programme interventions also respond to specific OSH needs and challenges in small and medium enterprises and, through the Vision Zero Fund, in global supply chains.

In times of crises, policy coherence, social dialogue, and collaborative action on OSH are more needed than ever. Through a flexible approach, Safety + Health for All supported the COVID-19 response by implementing effective prevention policies and measures in the work environment and improving emergency preparedness. The programme continuously strives to develop novel approaches to address emerging global OSH challenges notably those brought about by climate change.