OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY: LEGAL DUTIES OF EMPLOYERS

AUTHOR – NIVIIYA P, STUDENT AT SCHOOL OF EXCELLENCE IN LAW

BEST CITATION – NIVIIYA P, OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY: LEGAL DUTIES OF EMPLOYERS, INDIAN JOURNAL OF LEGAL REVIEW (IJLR), 5 (6) OF 2025, PG. 392-396, APIS – 3920 – 0001 & ISSN – 2583-2344

Abstract

This article explores the legal duties of employers in relation to occupational health and safety (OHS), examining statutory obligations, common law principles, and international labor standards. Employers are increasingly held accountable for ensuring safe working environments, with legal responsibilities that include risk assessments, provision of safe systems and equipment, employee training, health surveillance, emergency preparedness, and consultation with workers. Drawing on legislation from jurisdictions such as the United Kingdom, United States, Australia, and the European Union, the article outlines both general and sector-specific duties. It further analyzes the legal consequences of non-compliance, including criminal liability, civil litigation, and administrative sanctions. Through historical context and case studies such as the Piper Alpha disaster and Rana Plaza collapse, the article underscores the evolution and continuing relevance of employer obligations. Emerging challenges—such as mental health, remote work, technological risks, and climate-related hazards—are also discussed. The article concludes that the fulfilment of legal duties in OHS is essential not only for legal compliance but also for promoting workplace safety, productivity, and employee well-being in a rapidly changing labor environment.

Keywords: Occupational health and safety (OHS), employer duties, workplace safety, international labour standards, safety culture.