Members of the 2026 meeting of experts on a code of practice on occupational safety and health in aquaculture, together with the ILO secretariat.
International Labour Organization
The tripartite constituents of the International Labour Organization (ILO), together with other stakeholders, have officially adopted the first code of practice on occupational health and safety in aquaculture.
Government experts and representatives of employers' and workers' organizations will therefore strengthen the protection of workers in one of the world's fastest-growing food production sectors.
According to the ILO, aquaculture workers in some countries still face decent work deficits and poor occupational safety and health practices, which hinder the full development of their potential.
The code of practice, based on ILO conventions, will help stakeholders design and implement policies aimed at protecting aquaculture workers from preventable occupational injuries and diseases.
"Behind every paragraph debated in this room are real people, and the decisions and guidance developed here will ultimately reach workplaces, vessels, aquaculture farms, processing areas, and rural communities around the world," said Christine Campeau, Global Policy Director – Food and Nutrition Systems.
Likewise, Vera Paquete-Perdigao, Director of the ILO Labour Governance and Sectoral Policies Department, stated: "We hope it will serve as a practical tool for governments, employers and workers in the design and implementation of occupational safety and health policies and measures, and that it will contribute to promoting decent work throughout the agri-food sector."
During the 2025 United Nations Ocean Conference, discussions focused on a new international effort to improve safety and sustainability in ocean industries. One of the initiatives announced was the creation of new Ocean Centres in seven countries: Brazil, Ghana, Kenya, India, Bangladesh, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
Rather than physical offices, the Centres will operate as national networks, led by local experts and supported by a wide range of stakeholders, including engineers, safety professionals, businesses, and community leaders.