Pakistan Moves to Frame National Workplace Safety Policy
UrduPoint
Home
News
Pakistan Today
Auto
… (rest of the categories as listed)
Pakistan Moves To Frame National Workplace Safety Policy
Published September 09, 2026 | 09:30 PM
ISLAMABAD (APP – UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News – 9th Sep, 2026) The Federal government on Wednesday intensified its efforts to establish a comprehensive national occupational safety and health (OSH) framework.
A consultative dialogue was hosted by the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development (MOPHRD) in collaboration with the International Labour Organisation (ILO), bringing together diverse stakeholders to finalise a practical policy aimed at reducing workplace fatalities, injuries, and health risks across Pakistan’s formal and informal economies.
The meeting focused on refining the draft National OSH Policy and identifying strategies for its successful implementation. The proposed framework intends to protect workers from both traditional and emerging occupational hazards, encompassing extreme heat, climate-related risks, chemical and biological exposure, technological shifts, and evolving employment forms.
Officials and stakeholders emphasised the importance of addressing the needs of vulnerable workers, such as women, young and elderly individuals, persons with disabilities, migrant workers, home-based and domestic helpers, agricultural labourers, and digital platform workers.
The consultation involved representatives from:
- ILO
- Workers’ and employers’ organisations
- Federal and provincial governments
- Relevant institutions
Participants delved into discussions regarding workplace safety challenges, implementation strategies, and measures to ensure the framework’s effectiveness.
Federal Secretary for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, Nadeem Aslam Chaudhry, stressed that sustainable economic growth relies on safeguarding the workforce. He noted that a robust national OSH framework would enhance workplace safety, productivity, and Pakistan’s global economic competitiveness.
ILO Country Director for Pakistan, Geir Thomas Tonstol, highlighted the evidence-based and consultative approach behind the policy development process, which started with scientific research and provincial-level consultations. He emphasised that the goal was not merely to create another policy document but to establish an operational framework implementable by institutions and workplaces nationwide.
The proposed framework aligns with international labour standards, particularly ILO Conventions 155 and 187 on occupational safety and health. Participants reaffirmed their commitment to advancing Pakistan’s journey towards ratifying these two core OSH conventions.
The framework acknowledges the provinces’ administrative autonomy under the 18th Constitutional Amendment and proposes that provincial authorities take the leading role in implementation. The federal government will facilitate national coordination, shared priorities, and support the provinces in their efforts.
