Occupational Safety and Health (OSH): Definition & Importance

Occupational safety and health (OSH), also commonly referred to as workplace health and safety, is a cross-disciplinary area concerned with promoting and protecting the safety, health, and welfare of people engaged in work or employment. The goals of OSH are to prevent work-related injuries, illnesses, and fatalities by minimizing the risks and hazards inherent in or introduced into the workplace and to create a safe and healthy working environment.

OSH practices include identifying, evaluating, and controlling workplace hazards, developing and implementing safety and health policies and programs, providing training and education to workers, and monitoring adherence to safety and health regulations. It also involves fostering a positive safety culture within organizations and promoting effective communication and cooperation between employers, employees, and government agencies responsible for workplace safety.