Occupational safety and health becomes one of ILO’s Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work

The International Labour Organization (ILO) adopted a new resolution to include occupational safety and health (OSH) as one of their Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work during the 110th International Labour Conference (ILC).

Until now, there were four categories of Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work by ILO:

• Freedom of association and the effective recognition of the right to collective bargaining
• Elimination of all forms of forced or compulsory labour
• The effective abolition of child labour
• Elimination of discrimination in respect of employment and occupation

After this new decision by the Delegates attending the ILC Conference, OSH becomes the fifth category.

The ILO Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work, adopted in 1998, states that all these rights are universal and apply to people in all States – regardless of the level of economic development. It particularly mentions groups with special needs, including the unemployed and migrant workers.

With this landmark decision, all ILO Member States commit to respect and promote the fundamental right to a safe and healthy working environment.

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