Health and safety trends for 2024

As we enter 2024, the field of occupational health and safety (OHS) is set for significant changes. With an increased focus on worker well-being, new legislation, climate change and evolving technology, staying ahead in OHS is vital for both employers and employees.

Here are some trends to look out for in 2024.

Building new relationships with the regulator

Sustainability and regulatory compliance are key in 2024. Companies must adopt sustainable practices while adhering to safety and environmental regulations. The OHS Amended Bill is currently going through the phases to be promulgated and will change the way employers will need to approach occupational health and safety in the workplace.

As a contractor, you may have to deal with various regulators, such as local authorities and health and safety inspectors. Building positive relationships with them will make it easier to receive their guidance, support and feedback. Here are some of the best ways to build relationships with regulators:

• Know your obligations.
• Communicate proactively.
• Follow their guidelines.
• Document everything.
• Seek feedback.

Rising focus on mental health in the workplace

The World Health Organisation reported that more than half the world’s population is currently at work and 15% of the employable population live with a mental disorder. Without effective support, mental disorders and other mental health conditions can affect a person’s confidence and identity at work, their capacity to work productively, absenteeism and the ease with which they retain or find work. Twelve billion working days are lost every year to depression and anxiety alone.

The Occupational Health and Safety Act states all workers have the right to a safe and healthy working environment. Work can be a protective factor for mental health, but it can also contribute to worsening mental health.

Work-related mental health conditions are preventable. A great deal can be done to protect and promote mental health at work and support people with mental health conditions to participate fully and equitably in the work environment.

Emphasis on prevention strategies

The shift from reactive to proactive approaches in health and safety should be at the forefront in 2024. Members should be investing in prevention-focused initiatives to mitigate risks before they escalate. Robust risk assessments, predictive analytics and early intervention programmes should be implemented to identify and address potential health and safety hazards.

From ergonomic evaluations to mental health awareness campaigns, members should be promoting prevention through education, training and proactive measures. By empowering employees with knowledge and resources, members should aim to prevent accidents, injuries and mental health crises before they occur, thereby fostering a safer and healthier work environment.

Increasing use of digital technologies

The adoption of digital technology in occupational health and safety will be a game-changer. Remote monitoring technologies, automation, and AI can be used for a broad range of tasks including using data to forecast future outcomes, risk assessments and incident reporting. This trend is set to continue, with technologies like augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) providing new ways to enhance safety training and education. However, the South African occupational health and safety practitioner might not receive buy-in for using such technology or there may be resistance to using such technology to improve health and safety in the workplace.

Extreme weather preparedness

In recent years, we have seen the rise of extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, storms and increased rainfall in KZN such as the April 2022 and subsequent flooding. Businesses should prioritise preparing for such weather as these events are increasing not only in frequency but also in severity.

Preparations for adverse weather depend on location and specific threats. So, the first and most important thing you can do is determine what you are up against. Extreme weather events can cause severe damage to infrastructure on sites and pose risks to employee safety. Risks can include structural weaknesses (temporary works and scaffolding), slippery floors or blocked emergency exits.

The electricity and water supply and communication networks can also be damaged by inclement weather. This can impact the functionality of equipment and operational systems and even prevent contact with emergency services. Additionally, heat waves can directly affect employee health and may cause dehydration or heatstroke.

To manage these risks, it’s important to address these in the health and safety management system and have checks in place.

This includes:

• Drafting clear protocols or policies to manage extreme weather situations and ensuring employees are aware of them.
• Regularly maintaining workplace infrastructure (temporary works/scaffolding) and inspecting equipment to minimise risks.
• Providing employees with training on emergency procedures dealing with extreme weather conditions.
• Considering the inclusion of flexible work policies during extreme weather events to prioritise employee safety.
• Staying informed about weather forecasts and alerts to prepare adequately.

In 2024, OHS will continue to evolve, driven by technology, improved mental well-being, remote work, and sustainability.  Managing these changes offers benefits such as improved safety, increased productivity, greater talent attraction and reputation enhancement. Furthermore, it is not only smart for business; it is a commitment to employee well-being and a sustainable future. OHS will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping a safer and more sustainable work environment.

Neil Enslin

Head: Occupational Health and Safety

References

https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-health-at-work

Read more about mental health in the workplace by visiting this URL: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-health-at-work