EHs

Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) refers to the integrated management of environmental protection, occupational health and safety, and related compliance within an organization. EHS programs are designed to identify, assess, and control risks arising from the enterprise's activities, products, and services, with the aim of protecting people, communities, and the environment while supporting business objectives.

The environmental component covers air and water emissions, waste management, resource use, and pollution prevention. The health component addresses worker health, exposure monitoring, medical surveillance, ergonomics, and wellness. The safety component focuses on accident prevention, equipment safety, incident reporting, emergency preparedness, and near-miss investigation. Together they drive regulatory compliance and risk reduction.

EHS responsibilities are typically housed in a dedicated department led by an EHS manager or officer, with support from site supervisors and legal/compliance teams. Tasks include regulatory compliance tracking, hazard identification and risk assessment, safety training, incident investigation, audits and inspections, permit and emergency response planning, and contractor management.

Common frameworks include ISO 14001 for environmental management and ISO 45001 for occupational health and safety. Regions also require compliance with laws such as the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) and environmental regulations; the EU's REACH, RoHS; other local statutes. Certification is voluntary in some cases but can demonstrate commitment.

Best practices involve systematic hazard analysis, safe chemical handling, waste minimization, energy efficiency, occupational health programs, and continuous improvement through audits, management reviews, and corrective actions. Effective EHS programs align with corporate risk management, workforce training, and community relations.