This standard defines requirements and expectations for organizations to establish effective measurement systems that assess safety and health performance, reduce risks, identify gaps in safety and health management systems, and drive needed improvements. It applies to all organizations and provides flexibility based on their size, type of management system and level of organizational risk. The standard can supplement requirements from government agencies, non-government organizations and other groups such as rating agencies that may have their own private or public reporting requirements.

This standard broadens the scope of metrics beyond incident rates and other failure metrics. It promotes the use of leading metrics, metrics related to success, and business impact. Business impacts include effects on productivity, quality, worker well-being, recruitment, retention, morale and engagement, absenteeism, company reputation, financial health, and shareholder value.