Popular Science

Evolution of International
Occupational Health and
Safety Management Systems
Vyom Saxena
Health, Safety & Environment Group
Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Trombay-400085, INDIA
E-mail for Correspondence: [email protected]

Introduction the establishment of formal health and safety standards.

Workers’ compensation laws were first introduced in Germany
A management system is a set of policies, processes, and
in the late 19th century and adopted globally in the early 20th
procedures that an organization utilizes to manage tasks such
century, these laws incentivized employers to reduce
as safe operation, product quality, legislative and regulatory
workplace hazards. Occupational diseases were recognized
conformance, etc. to achieve its objectives. An Occupational
with Silicosis and asbestosis cases that highlighted the need
Health and Safety Management System (OHSMS) promotes a
for exposure limits and preventive measures.
healthy working environment by providing a framework to
Institutionalization of OHS regulation began to take shape in
identify, control, and manage Occupational Health and Safety
the Mid-20th Century after World War II and subsequent
(OHS) risks and opportunities [Boyle, 2019]. Gallagher
industrial expansion emphasized workplace safety. The U.S.
describes Occupational Health and Safety Management
Occupational Safety and Health Act (1970) created OSHA,
Systems (OHSMS) as “an integrated framework comprising
setting enforceable standards for workplace hazards, and
planning and review processes, organizational and
organizations like the International Labour Organization (ILO)
management structures, consultative mechanisms, and
and the World Health Organization (WHO) promoted global OHS
specific program components, all working cohesively to
standards [ILO 2005].
enhance health and safety performance” [Gallagher, 2003].
Implementation of an effective OHSMS aims at bringing down Systematization of OHSMS started in the late 20th
workplace injuries and minimizing the accompanying costs. Century with rapid industrialization that gave rise to the
Many studies have shown that safety management has a
positive influence not only on safety performance but also on
Pre - Industrial Revolution
parameters like competitiveness and economic-financial Rudimentary OHS practices in artisanal and agricultural work
functioning [Fernández-Muñiz, 2009]. Occupational health
and safety management systems (OHSMS) have evolved
significantly over time, reflecting advances in industrial
practices, societal awareness, technological innovation, and
Industrial Revolution
the identification of human factors as an important aspect in
Introduction of machinery safety laws and ventilation
relation to OHS [Cohelo, 2005]. This evolution has transitioned
from basic reactive measures to sophisticated, proactive, and
integrated systems aimed at preventing workplace incidents,
illnesses, and fatalities.
Early 20th Century
Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) practices were Emergence of compensation laws, occupational diseases recognition
rudimentary in the pre-industrial era. Workplaces, primarily
agricultural or artisanal, often relied on traditional methods
without formal systems for managing risks. Hazards such as
accidents or diseases were addressed reactively and Mid - 20th Century
informally. The Industrial Revolution (18th-19th Century) marked Creation of OSHA, global standards by ILO and WHO
the beginning of large-scale factory systems, introducing
machinery and mass production. These advancements also
brought significant hazards such as exposure to harmful
substances (e.g., coal dust, lead), dangerous machinery Late 20th Century
without safeguards, Poor ventilation and lighting, etc. Introduction of systematic frameworks: BS 8800, OHSAS 18001
Governments responded with some early legislations, e.g., the
UK’s Factory Acts (1833, 1844) introduced basic safety
regulations, limiting working hours and mandating safeguards
for machinery. The U.S. implemented state-level laws
21st Century
addressing workplace safety by the late 19th century [Manuele
Proactive systems (ISO 45001, 45003), mental health
2019].
The early 20th Century saw the emergence of Regulations Fig.1: Evolution of systematization in Occupational Health
saw development of formal OHS standards (20th century) with and Safety.

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Table 1: A comparison of various OHS management systems.

Aspect ISO 45001 OHSAS 18001 ILO-OSH 2001 ANSI/ASSP Z10 BS 8800
International Organization British Standards International Labour American Society of British Standards
Origin
for Standardization (ISO) Institution (BSI) Organization (ILO) Safety Professionals(ASSP) Institution (BSI)
1996 (superseded by
Adoption 2018 1999 (withdrawn 2021) 2001 2005 (latest revision 2019)
OHSAS 18001)
Risk -based approach; Hazard identification, Continuous improvement in Management systems for Guidance framework
Focus
worker participation risk assessment OSH performance improving OSH for OHSMS
UK (guidance-level,
Applicability Global Global International Primarily US
non-certifiable)
Certifiability Yes Yes (until 2021) No No No
PDCA Cycle, leadership Tripartite approach Risk -based and Framework and
Key Principle commitment, and worker PDCA Cycle (employers, workers, and
performance -oriented guidance
involvement government)
PDCA Cycle (non- High-level framework Guidance document
Structure Annex SL (10 Clauses) Flexible
Annex SL)
Risk Emphasis on proactive risk Reactive focus on Proactive and preventive Risk -based thinking and Hazard and risk
Management management hazard control focus reduction guidance
Worker Strongly emphasized Limited emphasis Strongly emphasized Encouraged Encouraged
Participation
Integration with Easily integrates with ISO Limited integration Not explicitly designed for Can be integrated with Limited integration
Other Standards 9001, ISO 14001 integration other systems

Legislation Can be tailored to national Broadly aligned with Focused on ILO standards Focuses on US regulations Aligned with UK
Alignment regulations existing laws and ANSI standards regulations

Context Organization -specific Limited focus on Not explicitly considered Organizational factors Limited contextual
context considered organizational context considered consideration
Migration Replaces OHSAS 18001 Superseded by ISO Precursor to OHSAS
Standalone Standalone
45001 18001
Certification Globally recognized; Previously widely
Not certifiable Improves safety culture Non-certifiable
Benefits enhances credibility recognized
Major Requires significant Limited flexibility Non-certifiable; guideline- US-centric Superseded and
Limitation implementation effort based outdated

concept of Management System Frameworks [Parvu, 2024]. completely replaced the earlier international standard, OHSAS
The rise of total quality management (TQM) influenced OHSMS 18001. The OHSAS 18001-certified organizations had time till
development. Frameworks emphasized a systematic September 2021 to migrate to ISO 45001. With an emphasis
approach, integrating health and safety into business on management commitment, worker involvement, and risk
processes. The earnest efforts towards OHS management control, ISO 45001 intends to prevent work-related injuries,
systems were first attempted with the release of a guide to OHS illnesses, and fatalities by specifying requirements for an
in 1996 based on Health and safety at Work Act 1996 of the OHSMS [Lindholm 2023]. This new standard follows the
International Labour Organization. The British Standard BS approach of other management systems such as ISO 14001
8800 (1996) and later the Occupational Health and Safety and ISO 90001. Although ISO 45001 draws on certain aspects
Assessment Series (OHSAS 18001) in 1999 provided a of OHSAS 18001, it is a new and distinct standard, not a
structured approach to implementing OHSMS globally revision or update.
[McKinnon 2019].
ISO 45001 significantly differs from its predecessor
The 21st Century is the era of Modern OHSMS which OHSAS 18001 which focused more on controlling hazards and
emphasizes proactive risk management, employee provided a framework for the effective management of
engagement, and integration with other business systems. occupational health and safety including risk management
Modern systems focus on hazard identification, risk and legal compliance. OHSAS 18001 had a reactive approach
assessment, and prevention rather than incident response that focussed solely on risks and not solutions, whereas ISO
[Lynda, 2007]. The first international standard for occupational 45001 has a proactive and preventive approach requiring
health and safety management systems came into being in hazard risks to be evaluated and remedied before they cause
2007 as Occupational Health and Safety Assessment Series accidents and injuries. ISO 45001 is process-based and
18001 (OHSAS 18001). Over the past three decades, there dynamic in all clauses whereas OHSAS 18001 is procedure-
have been constant efforts to improve the OHSMS and to make based and static. Similarly, ISO 45001 considers both risk and
it more wide-ranging, realistic and comprehensive [Karanikas, opportunities but OHSAS 18001 deals only with risk. Another
2019]. Fig. 1 depicts the evolutionary time chart on the major difference is that unlike OHSAS 18001, ISO 45001
systematization and standardization in OHS. considers the views of interested parties too. Table 1 Highlights
the significant differences between Various international OHS
Published in 2018, this international standard replaced
guidelines and management systems.
OHSAS 18001. It provides a risk-based approach aligned with
ISO management system standards (e.g., ISO 9001 for quality In the course of continual evolution, ISO 45003, the most
management). ISO 45001, designed to drastically improve the recent addition to OHSMS and the first global standard giving
levels of workplace safety and productivity is the new standard in-depth practical guidance on managing psychological health
for management systems of OHS. It was first proposed in 2013 in the workplace was introduced in June 2021. An add-on
and the final document was published af ter many extension of ISO 45001, it provides guidance on the
deliberations and revisions in March 2018. ISO45001 has now management of psychosocial risks as part of the occupational

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2018-2021 2018
2021
ISO 45001 ISO 45001
ISO 45003
replaces published
Introduced
ISO18001

2013
ISO 45001
initiated

1999
1998 1999 2007
BS 8800 BIS develops OHSAS 18001
guide to OHS OHS 18001 adopted globally

Fig.2: Timeline of the evolution of systematic International OHS guidelines and management systems.

health and safety management system [Leka, 2010]. ISO in operational failures or errors. Workers interacting with
45003 is not an accreditation in itself but a proactive attempt robotics face risks of mechanical injuries, programming errors,
to encourage ISO 45001-certified organizations to consider and electrical or hydraulic failures. Additionally, drones
mental health as an integral part of their working lives. Fig. 2 introduce hazards like physical accidents, airspace
gives the timeline of the integrated standards in OHS interference, noise pollution, and cybersecurity breaches,
culminating into OHS Management Systems (OHSMS). while automation can lead to skill degradation, job insecurity,
system failures, and ergonomic issues from repetitive
Factors Influencing the present state of OHSMS
monitoring tasks. These challenges are not only physical but
Evolution and the Challenges
also psychological, as workers may experience stress over
Technological Advancements of the present times have adapting to these technologies or facing potential
transformed the industry and workplaces like never before. displacement [Nuhu 2024].
The rapid strides made in fields like information technology,
To address these hazards, organizations must adopt
Automation, Digitalization, Robotics, and drone technology
proactive safety measures. Training and awareness programs
have not only revolutionized the occupational space but also
can equip workers with the skills needed to manage and
the OHS facet. Real-Time monitoring is possible with IoT
mitigate risks associated with new technologies. Ergonomic
devices and sensors that allow continuous monitoring of
design and user-friendly systems can minimize physical strain
workplace hazards, such as noise, air quality, and ergonomics.
and errors. Conducting comprehensive risk assessments
Predictive Analytics and Data-driven approaches can predict
ensures that potential hazards are identified and mitigated
potential hazards with great precision and guide preventive
early [Reese 2018]. Cybersecurity measures are crucial for
actions. Digital Training Tools such as virtual reality (VR) and
protecting sensitive data, especially in AI-driven and drone-
augmented reality (AR) offer immersive training experiences.
enabled environments. Furthermore, psychological support
However, the most unique feature of the latest OHSMS is its
systems can help workers cope with the stress and anxiety
Employee-Centric Approaches. odern OHS management
arising from job insecurity and workplace changes. By
systems emphasize employee well-being and considers stress,
implementing these strategies, industries can cultivate a safer
burnout, and mental health as workplace concerns [Gallagher,
and more inclusive environment, ensuring the benefits of
2001]. It acknowledges diversity and inclusion as important
advanced technologies are harnessed without compromising
considerations to address unique risks faced by vulnerable
worker well-being.
groups, including women and older workers.
Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) often face
Government regulations have been a primary driver of
significant challenges in implementing comprehensive
OHSMS advancements, mandating compliance and setting
occupational health and safety management systems
minimum standards. Major industrial accidents like the Bhopal
(OHSMS) due to limited resources [Robson 2007]. Financial
gas tragedy (1984) and the Chernobyl disaster (1986)
constraints make it difficult for SMEs to invest in advanced
underscored the importance of robust safety systems, leading
safety technologies, hire dedicated safety professionals, or
to stricter regulations and better practices [Hale, 1998].
conduct regular risk assessments. Additionally, a lack of
Globalization and the resultant global integration of supply
technical expertise can hinder the development and
chains has prompted multinational organizations to adopt
maintenance of systematic frameworks aligned with standards
consistent OHSMS frameworks across borders. Companies
like ISO 45001. SMEs also struggle with time constraints, as
increasingly view OHS as a part of their ethical responsibilities,
small teams often prioritize operational demands over safety
improving reputation and stakeholder trust. These influencing
initiatives. Compliance with complex regulations can be
factors and the concomitant challenges are presented in Fig. 3.
overwhelming, especially in industries with stringent safety
The integration of advanced technologies such as AI, requirements, leading to a reliance on reactive measures
robotics, drones, and automation into workplaces brings rather than proactive systems. These constraints highlight the
numerous occupational hazards that require careful need for tailored support, such as simplified guidelines,
management. AI systems, while enhancing efficiency, can affordable training programs, and government subsidies to
perpetuate biases, create privacy concerns through extensive help SMEs enhance workplace safety effectively.
data collection, and lead to overdependence, which may result

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Technology Total Health

IT, Digitization, Mental well being
Robotics, IoT, Behaviour Based
VR, AR Safety

Government Globalization
Regulations OHSMS Integrated
Compliances supply chains
SMEs

Technology
IT, Digitization, Advance analytics
Robotics, IoT, Big Data
VR, AR

Fig.3: The current Influencing Factors and the associated challenges for OHSMS.

Future Trajectory of OHSMS harassment, and discrimination, ensuring fairness and

respect for all employees. Regular assessments of workplace
Aligning Occupational Health and Safety Management
culture, combined with feedback mechanisms, allow
Systems (OHSMS) with Environmental, Social, and Governance
organizations to identify and address psychosocial risks
(ESG) goals represents a holistic approach to workplace safety
proactively [Lindholm 2023]. By embedding psychological
and sustainability. By integrating OHSMS with ESG
safety into OHSMS, businesses not only enhance employee
frameworks, organizations can address worker safety while
well-being but also improve engagement, productivity, and
p ro m ot i n g e nv i ro n m e n t a l s tewa rd s h i p a n d s o c i a l
overall organizational resilience.
responsibility. This alignment ensures that safety practices
consider environmental impacts, such as reducing waste or National Regulatory Frameworks
emissions, and prioritize inclusivity and well-being for all United States
employees [Wang 2020]. Governance principles enhance
accountability, encouraging transparent reporting of health Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
and safety metrics alongside ESG performance. Such primarily governs the United States' regulatory framework.
integration not only boosts compliance and stakeholder trust OSHA sets permissible exposure limits (PELs) for various
but also drives sustainable growth by embedding safety and workplace hazards, including airborne contaminants, noise,
ethical considerations into core business strategies. and exposures from various chemicals. organizations like the
American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists
Leveraging big data and AI for predictive risk (ACGIH) Complement OSHA, and provide Threshold Limit
management enables organizations to proactively identify and Values (TLVs) that often influence international standards.
mitigate potential workplace hazards. By analyzing vast Additionally, the National Institute for Occupational Safety
datasets from sensors, equipment logs, and employee and Health (NIOSH) conducts research and issues
feedback, AI algorithms can detect patterns and predict risks recommendations that guide OSHA’s regulations [ILO 2024].
before incidents occur. For example, machine learning models
can forecast equipment failures or highlight high-risk areas European Union
based on historical trends. This data-driven approach Occupational Health and safety standards in the
enhances decision-making, allowing for timely interventions European Union (EU) are codified under the European
and resource optimization. Additionally, predictive tools Framework Directive 89/391/EEC. This directive mandates
improve compliance with safety regulations by providing that employers assess and mitigate risks while advancing a
actionable insights in real time. Integrating big data and AI into culture of preventive safety. The EU’s regulatory approach
risk management systems not only enhances workplace safety often emphasizes worker participation in safety programs.
but also fosters a culture of continuous improvement and Additionally, the REACH (Registration, Evaluation,
innovation [Parvu 2024]. Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals) regulation directly
Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems impacts industrial hygiene by enforcing stringent controls over
(OHSMS) can ensure psychological safety by creating an chemical use and exposure [ILO 2024].
inclusive, supportive, and mentally healthy work environment. Japan
Key strategies include promoting open communication, where
employees feel safe to express concerns or ideas without fear Japan’s industrial hygiene framework is regulated by the
of retaliation or judgment. Incorporating mental health Industrial Safety and Health Act (ISHA) which mandates
initiatives, such as stress management programs, access to comprehensive risk assessments, regular health check-ups for
counseling, and training managers to recognize and address workers, and strict adherence to exposure limits for hazardous
psychological stressors, helps mitigate burnout and anxiety. substances. Japan’s emphasis on proactive measures,
OHSMS can also establish policies against workplace bullying, including education and training, aligns closely with
international best practices [ILO 2024].

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Australia [5] Parvu Adriana, Lucian-Ionel Cioca (2024) The evolution of

work and safety and health at work in Industry 4.0 / Industry 5.0,
Australia’s Model Work Health and Safety (WHS) Act and
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