The Government of Pakistan has approved a national Code of Practice on Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) for the construction sector, marking a significant step toward improving worker safety in one of the country’s highest-risk industries. Developed through a tripartite process involving the government, employers, and workers, and supported by the ILO and Pakistan Engineering Council, the Code establishes legally binding minimum safety and health standards for all construction activities, including building works, infrastructure development, civil engineering projects, and demolition.
The framework is designed to protect all construction workers, including those in the informal economy, while promoting equal access to safety measures and encouraging the use of improved technologies and practices. It covers the full lifecycle of construction projects, from planning and design to execution, and introduces stronger provisions for inspection, enforcement, and compliance.
Aligned with international labour standards and national regulations, the Code aims to reduce high accident rates, improve working conditions, and minimize economic losses caused by unsafe practices. It will be implemented by relevant federal and provincial authorities and is set to come into force one year after notification, allowing time for preparation and nationwide adoption.
