Question

What is the difference between occupational health and safety and workplace health and safety?

Answer
By Bryan McWhorter | Last updated: November 18, 2019
Presented by AD Safety Network

One simple way to understand the difference between occupational health and safety and workplace health and safety is to think of occupational health and safety as the laws, agencies and guidelines created to ensure worker health and safety. This includes agencies such as OSHA in the U.S., The Center for Occupational Health and Safety in Canada, and EU-OSHA in the UK and the rules and guidelines they enforce.

Workplace health and safety, on the other hand, at the very least must ensure that employers follow

Advertisement
all rules and guidelines created by the above mentioned agencies. The workplace is where the “rubber hits the road” so-to-speak, as workplace health and safety includes the particular employer's rules and regulations regarding health and safety. These employer rules and regulations may go above and beyond the requirements of the regulatory agencies. It is important that employers know, understand and follow established safety and health rules, including reporting accidents and verifying compliance.

Presented By

Logo for AD Safety Network

Share this

  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
  • X

Written by Bryan McWhorter | Lead Safety Advisor, Author, Writer, Speaker

Bryan McWhorter

Bryan McWhorter is a safety professional with eight years of experience in driving and teaching safety. Bryan gained his knowledge and experience as the safety officer and Senior Trainer for Philips Lighting. Philips is a strong health and well-being company that promotes a safety first culture.

More Q&As from our experts

Term of the Day

Edge Effects

Edge effects are defined in ecology as the influence that two ecological communities have on one another where they meet at…
Read Full Term

Let's Make Workplaces Safer!

Subscribe to the Safeopedia newsletter to stay on top of current industry trends and up-to-date know-how from subject matter authorities. Our comprehensive online resources are dedicated to safety professionals and decision makers like you.

Resources
Go back to top