ISLAMABAD, Feb 23 (APP): The Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development has proposed a Rs 39.76 million capacity-building project to improve occupational safety and health (OSH) standards for workers and employees, particularly in high-risk and export-oriented sectors.
According to official documents available with Wealth Pakistan, the project, titled ‘Capacity Building of Workers/Employees Regarding Occupational Safety and Health’, is scheduled to be implemented over two years from July 2026 to June 2028.
The initiative aims to reinforce labour welfare by promoting safer and healthier working environments, particularly in sectors where workers face elevated risks. The proposed initiative aims to directly train 3,920 workers in occupational safety and health practices and develop six master trainers and instructors to ensure the sustainability of training interventions. In addition, 30 workplace inspections and safety audits are planned to promote compliance with national and international OSH standards.
The document identifies several sectoral priority areas, including construction and infrastructure, health services, food, drink and tobacco industries, oil and gas production and refining, basic metal production, brick kilns and other hazardous labour sectors. These sectors have been prioritised due to higher exposure to occupational risks and their significance in export-oriented economic activity.
The project is designed to address key challenges such as workplace accidents, limited safety awareness, and gaps in institutional capacity. By investing in structured training, awareness campaigns, and institutional strengthening, the government seeks to build a strong preventive safety culture across industries.
Strategically, the project carries social, economic, and international significance. Improved OSH practices are expected to reduce workplace injuries and occupational diseases, enhance productivity, and lower compensation and insurance costs for employers.
The initiative also supports Pakistan’s compliance with International Labour Organization (ILO) Conventions No. 155 and 187 and strengthens alignment with labour-related obligations under the European Union’s GSP+ scheme, which supports a substantial share of Pakistan’s exports.
Under the project, standardized OSH training curricula and materials will be developed. Training of Trainers (ToT) sessions will produce six master trainers, while 3,920 workers and employees in high-risk sectors will receive structured OSH training. The initiative will also conduct 30 workplace inspections and safety audits, organize seminars and workshops, expand digital outreach, and promote emergency preparedness, incident reporting, and mental health awareness.
Beyond workplace improvements, the project is expected to deliver economic benefits such as reduced medical and insurance costs, higher productivity, and lower accident-related downtime. Social gains include safer working environments and improved quality of life for workers and their families, while environmental benefits are projected through reduced industrial accidents and improved regulatory compliance.