Due to the sheer volume of comments that need to be consulted on, the publication of the proposed new international standard for occupational safety and health, ISO 45001, has been delayed until June 2017.
Health and safety experts consulting on the standard were faced with nearly 3,000 individual comments on the draft standard which need to be addressed.
However it is hoped that a further draft of the standard reflecting any changes can be produced by October 2016. This was intended to be the month originally planned for publication.
There remains a widespread interest in ISO 45001 which intends to provide organisations with a universally accepted framework for improving employee health and safety, reducing workplace risks and creating healthier, safer working conditions.
Richard Jones, IOSH head of policy and public affairs commented: ''A great deal of progress has been made and IOSH is pleased to be part of this important development process. The volume and diversity of responses to the DIS shows the keen interest and engagement that ISO 45001 is already generating. Securing agreement and reaching consensus remain vital. Extending the timeframe supports achievement of this and helps ensure the overall outcome is a practical, robust and effective standard that can assist organisations worldwide improve health and safety performance.''
