Riyadh: Minister of Human Resources and Social Development and National Council for Occupational Safety and Health Chairman Ahmed Al-Rajhi announced the launch of the 8th International Conference on Occupational Safety and Health (GOSH8), scheduled to be held in 2026 under the theme 'Sustainable Safety for a Prosperous Future.' The conference will take place from April 27-29 at the Hilton Hotel in Riyadh.
According to Saudi Press Agency, Al-Rajhi also inaugurated the GOSH8 official website, enabling specialists and interested participants to register for the conference and access full details, including key themes, topics, and accompanying activities. The conference continues its role as a leading international scientific platform dedicated to exploring the future of occupational safety and health, discussing global labor-market challenges and opportunities, and showcasing the latest trends and innovations that enhance work environments.
This year's conference aims to foster constructive dialogue among experts, policymakers, and industrial leaders by discussing global best practices, exchanging critical knowledge, highlighting the role of technology in improving safety levels, and developing preventive policies and procedures aligned with the rapidly evolving global labor market.
The conference will feature high-level roundtable discussions bringing together leaders and decision-makers, specialized workshops, keynote sessions by international speakers, and an accompanying exhibition showcasing the latest safety technologies. Interactive simulation devices and awareness activities will further contribute to promoting a strong culture of safety and prevention.
The accompanying program will witness the launch of the third annual Global Occupational Safety and Health Hackathon (GOSHATHON) under the theme 'Innovate to Thrive,' attracting innovators, specialists, and engineers from around the world to develop advanced solutions in occupational safety and health.
In this context, Al-Rajhi emphasized that the launch of the eighth edition of the conference reflects the Kingdom's continued leadership in advancing occupational safety and health systems and strengthening compliance with international standards. He noted that the conference has become a global platform bringing together elite specialists and sector leaders to develop exemplary frameworks that contribute to building a safe and sustainable professional future.
Al-Rajhi added that the conference represents an important milestone in deepening global dialogue on the future of occupational safety and health, while continuing to raise preventive awareness to enhance human safety and ensure the sustainability of workplaces.
Vice Minister of Human Resources and Social Development for Labor Dr. Abdullah Abuthnain highlighted that strong labor markets form the foundation of stable and prosperous economies, noting that recent developments in work patterns require greater international cooperation to address challenges, enhance worker safety, and leverage opportunities that support the creation of modern, sustainable, and future-ready work environments.
Over its previous seven editions, the International GOSH achieved a qualitative transformation at both local and international levels by strengthening preventive policies, enabling digital transformation in safety systems, increasing compliance with international standards, building strategic partnerships, and developing highly qualified professionals capable of managing risks efficiently.
