HS Concept HS Health + Safety

The notion that everyone has a right to live and work in spaces free from avoidable hazards has developed over time as an ethical imperative in modern societies. A significant body of research links poor health, injury, and death to the unhealthy and unsafe environments where people live and work. The ILO reports that approximately 1 in 6 fatalities reported globally are in the construction industry¹⁸⁰. However, these fatalities, along with injuries from unsafe working conditions and occupational disease from exposure to hazards, are preventable.

In the last decade, there has been a growing recognition of the broader impacts of the built environment on health and wellness. Research has shown that factors such as air quality, access to green spaces, and building design can significantly influence physical and mental health. This research has led to developing evidence-based building standards and certifications, from health and wellness standards like WELL Building and Fitwel to environmental standards such as LEED and BREEAM, which promote health and sustainability in building design and operation.

Studies show that features like sanitation systems, fire sprinklers, and hazard warnings all quantifiably reduce harm and promote well-being. There is sufficient evidence that thoughtfully implemented measures using research to guide evidence-based strategies can significantly improve societal health and safety.