7-18. Integrating Human Rights Education and EHS in Line with Global Standards

In corporate activities, human rights and EHS (Environmental, Health, and Safety) management are inseparable. Following the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises, and a global movement toward mandatory human rights due diligence, companies are now required to integrate international human rights education with their EHS activities. This approach enables companies to go beyond mere legal compliance and establish a foundation for sustainable business.

Integrating Human Rights into EHS Education

When implementing human rights education, the content should be based on specific, on-the-ground risks rather than just classroom theory. Preventing excessive workloads, avoiding discrimination and harassment, and providing a safe working environment are all issues directly related to both human rights and EHS. For example, a workplace accident resulting from a failure to fulfill safety obligations could be considered a human rights violation. Therefore, it is crucial to embed a human rights perspective into EHS training so that employees understand their own rights and responsibilities.

Practical Integration Strategies

Practical measures for integration include: 1. Incorporating human rights items into the EHS management system, 2. Simultaneously checking for workplace environment and human rights risks during internal audits, and 3. Evaluating both EHS and human rights in supplier audits. Utilizing international standards like ISO 45001 (Occupational Health and Safety) and ISO 26000 (Social Responsibility) makes it easier to build a framework that aligns with global standards.

Global Reach and Local Adaptation

For globally expanding companies, education for multinational teams is essential. By providing educational materials and online learning tools in multiple languages and considering cultural and legal differences, companies can promote a unified understanding. Implementing a system to incorporate feedback from local employees ensures the programs are practical and effective, rather than just formalistic.

Conclusion: Beyond Risk Management

Integrating human rights education with EHS according to global standards directly enhances corporate value and improves ESG ratings. Creating a secure environment where employees can work with peace of mind not only prevents accidents and increases productivity but also earns trust from investors and customers. Companies must view this not merely as risk management but as a vital part of their strategy for sustainable growth.