EDI can foster a positive culture in the OSH profession

Studies over the years have showcased benefits of embracing diversity. We know diversity benefits ‘the bottom line’ but, beyond that, fostering a diverse and inclusive culture also has positive impacts on employee satisfaction and retention. Employees who feel seen and listened to are more likely to be engaged and committed to their work. This enhances creativity and innovation and contributes to the overall wellbeing of the workforce.

IOSH believes that equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) are integral to our vision of a safe and healthy world of work. It’s woven into our strategy, Activate 2028. Our EDI vision is clear and simple: “an inclusive environment where everyone is treated fairly and feels able to participate and achieve their potential.”

We recognise that for our EDI initiatives to be successful we cannot take a one-size-fits-all approach; rather we must look at our stakeholders and develop a programme specifically designed to suit their needs.

The institution has made strides in developing its internal EDI programme. We recognise that we are on a journey and still have work to do but we are comfortable that what we have done so far is setting us up for continued success in the future.

Two years ago, we joined forces with 11 other professional bodies to commission The Young Foundation to carry out collaborative research into the state of equality, diversity and inclusion within and across professions.

The results of this have now been published as a report, Beyond Buzzwords. It highlights concerns and makes recommendations to achieve positive change.

IOSH welcomed the chance to take part in this research. All insights and recommendations will enable us to further develop our approach towards EDI with our members, staff and key external stakeholders.