Menu
In This Section

Core Principles of Modern Occupational EHS Practice

About ASSP

Modern occupational environmental, health and safety (EHS) practices are key to driving economic growth.

The Intersociety Forum (ISF) is a coalition of organizations, including ASSP, dedicated to safeguarding worker safety and health and promoting the fact that safety practices create a strategic advantage that powers enduring business success while fostering innovation and protecting workers.

Despite advancements, workplace injury and fatality rates remain stagnant. By adopting proactive, risk-based safety strategies, businesses can unlock greater productivity, reduce costs and strengthen their global competitiveness. ISF urges today’s business leaders and policymakers to prioritize occupational EHS as a foundation of economic competitiveness. Adopting this approach will position the U.S. as a global leader in safety, innovation and workforce well-being, enabling workers and businesses to thrive.

ISF has identified three key principles that reflect our shared commitment to protecting workers, advancing operational excellence, and promoting a sustainable, thriving workforce. By working together to demonstrate these values and pursue these goals, we can help businesses realize the value of safety as a driver of competitiveness, economic growth and sustained operational success.

Principle 1: Business-Driven Practice: Standards and Worker Well-Being

Safety is not just about compliance; it is about creating standards that foster business success while promoting holistic worker health.

Principle 2: Beyond Compliance: Embracing Risk and Safety Management Systems

Modern occupational EHS practices go beyond checking a box. They help organizations proactively mitigate risk and embed safety into every aspect of decision-making.

Principle 3: Leading Indicators: Revolutionizing Recordkeeping for Predictive Insights

Traditional lagging indicators only tell part of the story. Leading indicators empower organizations to predict and prevent serious injuries, illnesses and fatalities.

By adhering to these fundamental values, which are further described in our "Core Principles," we can “bring life” to workplaces across the nation, fostering a business model of safety and health that empowers workers and strengthens businesses. Embracing safety as a strategic priority will enable businesses to forge a safer, healthier and more prosperous future — one in which both businesses and workers thrive.

Core Principles of Modern EHS Practice

ISF Members and Industry Groups That Support These Principles

  • AAOHN
  • ABSA International, The Association of Biosafety and Biosecurity
  • ACGIH
  • American Industrial Hygiene Association
  • American Society of Safety Professionals
  • Board of Certified Safety Professionals
  • Board for Global EHS Credentialing (BGC)
  • CSHEMA
  • Institute of Hazardous Materials Management
  • International Safety Equipment Association
  • National Safety Council
  • NECA
  • NEHA
  • VPPPA
As of March 2, 2025

Want to Add Your Voice?

If you want to show your organization's support of these core principles, please complete our survey and we'll add you to the growing number of organizations that strongly believe occupational EHS is not just a cost — it is a foundation of sustainable business and competitive growth.

QR Code for ISF Core Principles Document

Connect With ASSP