The American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) has signed memorandums of understandings that will explore opportunities to collaborate, exchange technical information and conduct joint educational programs with the largest occupational health and safety organizations in China and Taiwan.

The landmark agreements mark the first time ASSE, the China Occupational Safety and Health Association (COSHA) and the Industrial Safety and Health Association (ISHA) of the R.O.C.  (Taiwan) will partner to enhance work place safety in each region. Other goals include advancing issues and programs beneficial to their respective members and the occupational health and safety profession.

ASSE President Kathy Seabrook led a delegation who met with the leadership team of COSHA in Beijing and leaders and members of ISHA in Taiwan last month to formalize these alliances. The agreements were signed by Seabrook, COSHA President Zhang Baoming and ISHA President Lan Fwu-Liang .

“Reaching these agreements is a milestone for ASSE,” Seabrook said. “The opportunity to share expertise and exchange best practices with COSHA and ISHA will strengthen our relationships, our profession and work to assure safe and healthy workplaces throughout the world. This is the essence of ASSE’s mission”

"ASSE, COSHA and ISHA agree that more qualified professionals are needed to ensure workplace safety, saying the partnership will provide a better understanding of the needs of emerging markets and the opportunity to learn from their experiences," according to a statement from ASSE.