Occupational Health and Safety (OHS)

A set of laws, policies, and programs designed to ensure workplace safety and prevent accidents or health hazards.

HR departments enforce OHS standards through safety training, compliance audits, and workplace hazard assessments. A strong OHS program protects employees and reduces organizational liabilities.

Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) refers to practices, policies, and regulations aimed at ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of employees in the workplace.

It involves:

• Preventing workplace injuries and illnesses
• Providing safe working conditions
• Promoting physical and mental health
• Ensuring compliance with safety laws and standards
  

In India, OSH is governed by laws like the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020.

OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) is a U.S. government agency that ensures safe working conditions by setting and enforcing standards.

It’s important because it:

• Protects workers from hazards and unsafe practices
• Reduces workplace accidents and fatalities
• Enforces accountability on employers
• Promotes safety culture through training and education
• Helps improve productivity and morale by keeping workers safe

In India, while OSHA is not applicable, similar functions are carried out by bodies like the Directorate General Factory Advice Service & Labour Institutes (DGFASLI) and under the OSH Code 2020.

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