A safe and Healthy Future of Work
Future working and the implications for Health & Safety
Talking of change, we are always on the lookout for emerging trends in management system standards and like the planned ISO 9001 updates that are due soon, ISO 45001 and the wider health and safety community are keeping one eye on the future.
A report recently published by IOSH (Institution of Occupational Safety & Health) highlights the risk and opportunity present in global levels of work-related ill health, accidents and death and the potential too for the introduction of harm reduction principles on a global scale. The report includes an assessment of likely changes in the future world of work and considers too how technology and AI may affect the workplace including the importance of effective fundamentals in containing risk and reducing harm.
Hybrid working is the tip of the iceberg in changing employment models and working patterns. Portfolio careers made up of periods of flexible and remote work, the drive to renewable energy, social equity, new technologies, digitalisation, climate change and deregulation are some of the changes highlighted. The pace of change is a factor, some will be evolutionary others fast paced. All will require evaluation of risk and planning, thinking of organisational context will support the elimination of hazards, reducing risks and enhancing workers wellbeing.
Whilst changing employment models will challenge traditional concepts and the employer- employee relationship these shifts will also be impacted by the availability and access to labour. Societal concerns, climate change and gradual global demographic shifts will require the management of different types of hazards.
Macro trends such as extreme heat, infectious diseases and environmental degradation are amplifying risks. On the flip side, new technologies may actually allow workers to perform tasks more safely and efficiently. Let’s not forget data, the statistics that inform our monitoring, measurement, analysis and evaluation activity will increase which in turn has the potential to improve health and safety outcomes.
In terms of ISO 45001 and wider health and safety management it’s important that organisations not only demonstrate an awareness of the changing world of work but become aware too of the rapid changes taking place and the need for resilience. As health and safety advisors and ISO 45001 trainers QCS International will certainly be encouraging organisations to include the future workplace in any discussion around organisational context and in particular consider elements of change in management review meetings. The world of work is changing but ultimately the continued prevention of harm and protection of workers is key.
