It’s tempting to attribute the increased profile now given to occupational health and safety (OH&S) to the Covid-19 pandemic. But while the pandemic focused a spotlight on OH&S management in many organizations, there are other issues that will keep OH&S at the fore throughout the next decade.

These include new risks associated with climate change, transformations in the world of work, such as remote/home working, a much-needed focus on mental well-being, and the flexible employment models typical in the gig economy. Alongside this sit broader trends, such as new technology and demographic change.

Changing societal expectations are also having an effect, reflected in the International Labour Organization’s declaration in 2022 that a safe and healthy working environment is a fundamental principle and right at work. OH&S is also a key component of an organization’s commitment to the social aspect of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investment. Progress on diversity and inclusion also raises issues for OH&S management, where at times a “one size fits all” approach insufficiently addresses the individual needs of workers.

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