What is the primary focus of environmental health and safety (EHS)?

The primary focus of environmental health and safety (EHS) is to protect employees and the environment from potential hazards. This encompasses a wide range of practices aimed at identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks that can lead to accidents, injuries, or adverse environmental impacts. EHS programs are designed to foster a safe workplace by implementing safety protocols, providing training, and ensuring that safety standards are maintained. This protection is essential not only for the well-being of employees but also for sustaining the environment, making it a critical area of focus for any organization committed to responsible operations.

In contrast, the aim of boosting employee morale, enhancing a company's public image, or ensuring compliance with financial regulations may be important for an organization but do not encapsulate the main objectives of EHS. These aspects can be secondary benefits that arise from a strong EHS program, but they do not represent the core mission, which is fundamentally about safety and environmental stewardship.