IOSH had reason to celebrate recently after officially being recognised as an international non-governmental organisation (NGO) by the International Labour Organisation (ILO).
IOSH is the first safety body in Europe to be recognised as an NGO and, for the first time, practitioners can independently input into policies that affect health and safety standards across the world. Granting IOSH NGO status means the Institution is now able to sit with the ILO, and other worldwide bodies, in consultation on new policy.
Rob Strange, chief executive of IOSH, said: “Receiving NGO status is wonderful news for IOSH. Being recognised by the ILO is fantastic approval of the role that IOSH does and hopes to play on the world stage. Recognition as an NGO will have an impact on the respect we gain from other agencies, like the World Health Organisation and others throughout Europe.
“This is the culmination of three years of hard work and will help IOSH achieve its aim of becoming the leading voice on health and safety issues internationally. By doing this, we hope to create a world that realises that good, sensible health and safety helps create a safe, profitable and sustainable economy for all.”
Good to know that IOSH had recently received a NGO status, That is good news, but there are more OSH organisations who have had that status for many years like IOHA (International Occupational Hygiene Association), ICOH (international Committee on occupational Health) and the international Ergonomic Association (IEA). May be good to work to together in this area !!!