ISLAMABAD: The Government of Pakistan has taken a significant step in enhancing worker safety by approving a national Code of Practice on Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) for the construction sector. The newly established standards aim to protect workers in one of the country’s largest and most hazardous industries.

According to United Nations Pakistan, the Code of Practice was developed through a collaborative process involving the government, employers, and workers, with leadership from the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC). It sets legally binding minimum requirements for safety and health measures, applicable to a broad range of construction activities, including building works, infrastructure development, and demolition.

The Code is designed to cover all construction workers, including those in the informal economy, ensuring equal access to safety measures. It aligns with internationally recognized standards and is integrated with national regulatory frameworks, providing a comprehensive approach to safety throughout the lifecycle of construction projects. It also introduces mechanisms to strengthen inspection and enforcement to ensure compliance.

Geir Tonstol, Country Director for ILO Pakistan, emphasized the importance of this development, stating, “This is an important step towards improving safety and health in one of Pakistan’s highest-risk sectors. It reflects the shared commitment of government, employers, and workers to strengthen protections for those working on construction sites.”

The responsibility for implementing the Code falls to the relevant federal and provincial authorities, along with occupational safety and health regulatory bodies. The Code will be enforced one year following its notification to allow time for widespread adoption and effective implementation.