First international agreement focused on biological hazards in the work environment
In the framework of the 113th International Labor Conference held in Geneva in June 2025, the ILO has adopted the First International Convention focused specifically on biological hazards in the work environment, a regulatory instrument that seeks to respond to the growing impact of biological agents on the health and safety of workers worldwide, based on the principles of decent work and a safe and secure environment. healthy as a fundamental right.
The agreement defines asbiological risks a all microorganisms (including genetically modified ones), toxins, allergens and irritants of plant or animal origin, which can cause diseases or injuries due to occupational exposure. Its scope of application extends to all sectors and workers, except for exclusions justified by the Member States.
Among its main pillars, the text urges countries tointegrate biological risks into their national occupational health and safety policies, and to promote inter-institutional coordination, especially with public health systems. The Convention also promotes systematic risk assessment, the development of preventive measures and emergency response plans, and the adoption of specific provisions for high-risk sectors such as health, agriculture, laboratories, funeral services, among others.
Employers, for their part, have the obligation to guarantee work environments free of biological risks to the extent possible, through the evaluation, elimination or hierarchical control of hazards, the provision of adequate protective equipment, training and health surveillance of workers. In turn, workers acquire key rights, such as being informed, participating in decision-making, refusing to continue a dangerous activity, and accessing rehabilitation measures and protection against retaliation.
The text is complemented by a recommendation that details technical criteria, priority sectors and especially vulnerable groups (pregnant women, immunosuppressed people, migrants, etc.). In addition, it promotes a transversal preventive culture
