Proactive prevention in occupational safety and health: how to identify tomorrow's prevention priorities and preventive measures

Abstract

Introduction. Global trends such as digitalization, globalization and demographic change are changing workplaces, and accordingly occupational safety and health (OSH) needs. To better prepare for the future and to foster proactive prevention, the German Social Accident Insurance (DGUV) established an OSH risk observatory (RO OSH). Methods. The RO OSH relies on an online survey and calls upon the expertise of labour inspectors. In total, 398 labour inspectors participated in the first RO OSH enquiry. They rated developments with regard to their sector-specific relevance for OSH in the near future. The RO OSH also provides ideas for preventive measures that can be implemented by the German Social Accident Insurance Institutions. Results. Work intensity, demographic aspects and digitalization play a major role for most or all sectors. However, familiar OSH issues such as musculoskeletal strain and noise also continue to be of major importance and require further consideration and specific solutions in prevention. Outlook. For the DGUV, training and consulting have great potential for proactive prevention in these priority areas, e.g., by fostering a prevention culture and supporting companies in (psychosocial) risk assessment (also for mobile work). For instance, concepts for increasing physical activity at sedentary workplaces and data security require continued research.