Milestones of workplace safety and machine safety

1919
Creation of the International Labor Organization (ILO)

• Significance:
  The ILO advocates the improvement of working conditions worldwide, including occupational safety and health. It develops international labor standards and provides technical assistance and training.
   
• Impact:
  The ILO has greatly influenced global occupational safety by promoting the adoption and enforcement of occupational safety laws in many countries through its standards and programs. It was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1969.

1970

Enactment of the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) in the USA

• Significance:
  The OSHA Act established comprehensive workplace safety regulations in the United States and led to the creation of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). This agency enforces compliance with safety standards.
   
• Impact:
  The Act and OSHA have significantly improved workplace safety standards in the USA and served as a model for other countries globally. Workplace fatalities have decreased by more than 60%.

2006

European Union Machinery Directive (2006/42/EC)

• Significance:
  The Machinery Directive sets fundamental safety requirements for the design and  use of machinery in the EU. It harmonizes safety standards for machinery across all member states.
   
• Impact:
  It ensures that machinery used in the EU meets high safety standards, significantly reducing accident rates and occupational hazards.

2013

Introduction of ISO 12100

• Significance:
  ISO 12100 is an international standard that outlines general design principles for risk reduction in machinery. It provides a systematic approach to risk assessment and mitigation.
   
• Impact:
  This standard is applied worldwide and contributes to the international harmonization of safety requirements for machinery, thereby improving global occupational safety.