The International Labour Organization (ILO) is the United Nations’ specialized agency for world of work matters. Founded in 1919 and headquartered in Geneva, it brings together governments, employers, and workers from 187 member states in a unique tripartite structure to set international labor standards, promote decent work, and advance social justice through conventions, recommendations, research, and technical cooperation.
For the chemical and process industries, the ILO develops and promotes occupational safety and health standards and guidance covering hazardous substances and major industrial risks. Its instruments include the Chemicals Convention (C170) and the Prevention of Major Industrial Accidents Convention (C174), as well as codes of practice and guidance on safe handling of chemicals, labor inspection, and workplace health programs. The ILO also supports countries and supply chains with capacity building, training, and policy advice on issues such as risk management, social protection, skills, and responsible business conduct to improve working conditions and safety across the chemicals value chain.
