ILO advances occupational safety and health with heavy-duty machinery assessment in Jordan

AMMAN (ILO News) — The International Labour Organization (ILO) has completed a technical assessment of heavy-duty machinery used across several industrial sectors in Jordan, marking an important step toward addressing persistent occupational safety and health (OSH) risks linked to serious workplace accidents.

The findings were presented and discussed during a consultative online meeting held on 27 January 2026 with the participation of the Ministry of Labour, employers’ and workers’ representatives and relevant stakeholders.

The assessment was conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Labour and social partners in the fourth quarter of 2025, using a participatory approach. It was funded by the European Union under the ILO-implemented project “Promoting Decent Work and Export Competitiveness under the Rules of Origin Framework in Jordan.” The initiative was launched in response to repeated serious incidents involving heavy-duty machinery in industrial facilities over recent years, raising concerns about worker safety, operational practices and regulatory enforcement.

Key findings

The assessment identified notable disparities in safety practices across industrial establishments. While some facilities demonstrated positive and effective approaches to machinery safety, others showed gaps in critical areas, particularly in worker training, preventive maintenance and the application of safe operating procedures. These gaps highlight the need for systematic improvements to reduce occupational health and safety risks and prevent future accidents.

Next steps

Building on the assessment findings, the ILO has developed draft Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for five types of heavy-duty machinery, aimed at strengthening safe work practices and supporting compliance with occupational safety and health requirements. These SOPs will be further discussed and refined in coordination with national stakeholders.

The ILO will continue to support the Ministry of Labour through targeted training and capacity-building activities for labour inspectors and occupational safety and health supervisors. Additional coordination with social partners and relevant authorities will focus on developing practical guidance materials to enhance inspection processes and compliance monitoring.

Participants in the consultation emphasized that the assessment represents a critical first step toward improving occupational safety and health in Jordan. They highlighted its importance as a foundation for scaling up future interventions to ensure safer, more resilient, and more sustainable workplaces.