Convention directs members to 'promote continuous improvement of occupational safety, health'
The Australian government has ratified ILO Convention No. 187 to officially complete all 10 Fundamental Conventions of the International Labour Organisation (ILO).
The ILO Convention No. 187, also known as the Promotional Framework for Occupational Safety and Health Convention 187, was ratified in a tripartite ceremony in Geneva, Switzerland.
The convention mandates members ratify it to "promote continuous improvement of occupational safety and health to prevent occupational injuries, diseases, and death."
It also aims to promote nationwide policies, systems, and programmes to support a safe and healthy working environment.
"By ratifying these conventions, Australia sends a powerful message: we respect the fundamental rights of all workers," said Employment Minister Murray Watt in a statement.
"As such, Australia upholds all fundamental international labour rights and is a fair, safe and secure place to work and do business."
Australia's ratification of ILO Convention No. 187 officially completes the country's ratification of 10 ILO Fundamental Conventions.
"Australia is a world leader in work health and safety, and becoming one of the first nations to ratify all 10 of the ILO's Fundamental Conventions underscores our commitment to workplace health and safety as a fundamental principle and right," said Marie Boland, CEO of Safe Work Australia, in a statement.
"The ILO's Conventions align with our WHS framework in Australia and ensure that our approach is consistent with international best practice."
The tripartite ceremony for the ratification in Geneva saw representatives from the Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU) and the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Michele O'Neil, president of ACTU, said ratifying these international conventions signals the government's commitment to workers' health and safety.
"The new ratifications build on other important actions the federal government has taken to protect workers' health and safety, like protecting workers against deadly silica dust, making employers responsible for preventing sexual harassment and implementing all the Respect@Work recommendations," O'Neil said in a statement.
