DA NANG, 9 July 2026 – The Ministry of Home Affairs of Viet Nam successfully convened the 13th ASEAN Occupational Safety and Health Network (ASEAN-OSHNET) Conference (13th AOC) on 7 July, followed by the 27th ASEAN-OSHNET Coordinating Board Meeting (CBM-27) from 8–9 July in Da Nang, Viet Nam. The events brought together representatives from ASEAN Member States (AMS), international organisations, development partners, and the private sector to strengthen regional cooperation in promoting safer, healthier and more resilient workplaces.
During the 27th ASEAN-OSHNET Coordinating Board Meeting, AMS reviewed progress in implementing regional occupational safety and health (OSH) initiatives, discussed the operationalisation of the ASEAN-OSHNET Work Plan 2026–2030, and considered cooperation priorities with external partners. The Meeting further acknowledged the successful completion of Thailand’s Chairmanship of ASEAN-OSHNET and welcomed Viet Nam as the Chair of ASEAN-OSHNET for 2026–2027.
Held under the theme “Digital Transformation and AI in Occupational Safety and Health in ASEAN,” the Conference explored how digital technologies and artificial intelligence can enhance OSH management, strengthen labour inspection, improve workplace risk assessment, and support evidence-based policy-making.
Participants exchanged experiences on national digital initiatives, including the use of AI-enabled monitoring systems, digital reporting platforms, electronic health records, virtual reality training, and data-driven approaches to workplace safety across various sectors. The Conference also featured an enterprise dialogue that showcased practical applications of digital technologies and AI in improving workplace safety and fostering collaboration between governments, employers, workers, and technology providers.
Recognising the rapidly evolving world of work, participants underscored the importance of harnessing digital innovation responsibly to improve prevention of occupational accidents and diseases while ensuring that technological advancement remains human-centred, inclusive, and aligned with international labour standards.
The discussions highlighted the value of regional cooperation in strengthening digital capabilities, promoting knowledge sharing, and supporting AMS in addressing emerging OSH challenges associated with technological transformation.
The Conference and Meeting reaffirmed ASEAN’s commitment to fostering a strong culture of prevention and ensuring that digital transformation contributes to safer, healthier, and more productive workplaces across the region. As ASEAN continues to advance regional integration and sustainable economic development, enhanced cooperation on occupational safety and health remains essential to protecting workers, supporting enterprises, and building a future-ready workforce. Salient points of the conference is accessible here
Image credit: ASEAN Secretariat
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