A framework for child safety and health management by analogy to occupational safety and health management

Abstract

Child accidents and diseases are characterized by many factors. Thus, a system approach to child safety and health (CSH) including different management levels is indispensable. However, the literature is scarce in holistic approach to CSH management. In this paper, a unified framework for CSH is proposed by analogy to occupational safety and health (OSH) system. In this framework, CSH management comprises decisions and actions on global, macro, and micro-levels for a safe and healthy environment for children. Global level represents international organizations working for CSH, macro level represents national regulations, and micro-level represents home environments and public places. The decisions and actions at each level are linked to the subsequent level by input/feedback relation. The framework is illustrated by hypothetical examples, and provides a holistic practical approach to CSH management. Other OSH management approaches and best practices can also be adapted to the proposed CSH system.