Introduction Standards were developed in response to concerns that Occupational Health Services were fragmented and inconsistent and that there was a requirement for standardisation nationally. Following an international trend many OHS services were seeking an accredited service that would address these concerns.

Methods One of the first priorities of the newly formed Workplace Health and Wellbeing Unit was to commence a review of existing International OHS Standards. The service developed unique standards in line with the Quality Assurance Framework (QAF) Safety and Quality Improvement Directorate. A workshop was held with HIQA to discuss the format and process to develop standards under this Framework.

A Standards Project Group was set up and included representatives from Health and Safety, Staff Health and Wellbeing and Occupational Health Services Nationwide.

In accordance with the HIQA Framework, an Expert Advisory group was also convened. 2017.

The draft standards were sent out for broad consultation, including to service users, in April 2017 and outlined to the profession at the annual WHWU conference in May 2017.

Result Standards for Occupational Health Services in the Irish Health Service were approved on May 19th 2017. ISBN 978-1-78602-044-4.

The standards are grouped according to 5 themes as follows:

• Worker centred care,

• Safe and effective care

• Leadership management and governance

• Workforce planning and resources

• Use of Information

Discussion A training needs analysis was conducted and a blended approach to support the implementation of these standards will take place.

The development of standards for other divisions is under consideration.

The role of multi-disciplinary team work was a key factor in this practice development project.