IDH, an international non-profit based in the Netherlands, has reached a major milestone with its Life and Building Safety (LABS) Initiative for the apparel sector, enhancing workplace safety for 1 million workers across India, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Indonesia. Over the past four years, this initiative has significantly improved safety measures and advanced responsible practices in key apparel-producing regions.
LABS, an industry-driven program, collaborates to elevate safety standards in apparel, footwear, accessories, and home-textile industries, prioritising worker safety and addressing risks like fires, electrical hazards, and structural concerns.
Pramit Chanda, IDH’s Global Director for Textiles & Manufacturing, emphasises the commitment to creating a lasting positive impact on workers’ lives and instilling a safety culture within these sectors. IDH aims to expand LABS, extending its influence for a more profound effect in the future.
This effort involves brands like Gap Inc., Target, VF Corporation, and Walmart, governmental bodies, and non-profits. LABS conducts factory assessments, identifies safety hazards, and implements strategies for improvement. Since 2019, it has completed 465 assessments with a 77 per cent remediation rate and delivered over 849 safety training sessions.
Overall, the Life and Building Safety Initiative promotes accountability, transparency, and ongoing progress in the industry.
