Introduction

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Introduction

The positive impact of introducing occupational safety and health (OSH)

management systems at the organization1 level, both on the reduction of hazards and

risks and on productivity, is now recognized by governments, employers and workers.

These guidelines on OSH management systems have been developed by the

International Labour Organization (ILO) according to internationally agreed principles

defined by the ILO's tripartite constituents. This tripartite approach provides the

strength, flexibility and appropriate basis for the development of a sustainable safety

culture in the organization. The ILO has therefore developed voluntary guidelines on

OSH management systems which reflect ILO values and instruments relevant to the

protection of workers' safety and health.

The practical recommendations of these guidelines are intended for use by all

those who have responsibility for occupational safety and health management. They

are not legally binding and are not intended to replace national laws, regulations or

accepted standards. Their application does not require certification.

The employer is accountable for and has a duty to organize occupational safety

and health. The implementation of an OSH management system is one useful approach

to fulfilling this duty. The ILO has designed these guidelines as a practical tool for

assisting organizations and competent institutions as a means of achieving continual

improvement in OSH performance.

1 See glossary for definition.