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Volume 12, Issue 2 (2024)
Health Educ Health Promot 2024, 12(2): 243-254 |
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Received: 2024/04/23 | Accepted: 2024/06/16 | Published: 2024/06/21
Received: 2024/04/23 | Accepted: 2024/06/16 | Published: 2024/06/21
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Suharni S. Prioritizing Occupational Safety, Health, and Wellbeing; An Analysis of Imperative Public Health Trends. Health Educ Health Promot 2024; 12 (2) :243-254
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Department of Public Health, Indonesian Muslim University, Makassar, Indonesia
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Introduction
The increased recognition of the significance of occupational safety and health (OSH) in the workplace has garnered growing attention within the realm of public health [1, 2]. Workplace safety and health are no longer solely the responsibilities of individuals or organizations; they are also viewed as a public health necessity that profoundly influences the general well-being of society [3, 4]. Given the increasingly intricate shifts in the work environment, encompassing the impacts of globalization, technology, and economic dynamics, understanding the latest trends in OSH priorities is paramount [5].
OSH holds global significance, closely intertwined with the political, social, and economic landscapes of countries worldwide [6]. OSH stands as the culmination of workers’ rights stemming from historical demands and struggles [7-9]. The nature of work acts as a crucial determinant affecting the human condition, quality of life, and health on a universal scale.
Work not only serves as a means of sustenance but also as a pathway to respect, integration, sociability, recognition, and the forging of bonds and friendships within society [10]. However, across the globe, the living conditions of workers are subject to the fluctuations of economic growth, industrialization, and periods of recession [11, 12]. Such variations often prompt governments to implement adjustment measures and enact financial cuts in various social sectors, including education, health, safety, transportation, housing, and employment [13].
Workers’ endeavors to enhance OHS standards have a global impact, mirroring broader societal aspirations for dignity, fairness, and social justice [14, 15]. The development of OSH policies and practices often originates from historical movements and labor activism aimed at securing fundamental rights and protections for workers worldwide [16]. Dealing with the intricacies of ensuring OSH on a global scale necessitates a comprehensive approach. This includes integrating legislative frameworks, robust enforcement mechanisms, employer accountability, worker empowerment, and public awareness campaigns [17, 18]. Furthermore, addressing systemic issues like income inequality, healthcare accessibility, and social protection is crucial for upholding the health and well-being of the global workforce. Initiatives to enhance OSH go beyond national borders, embodying universal aspirations for fair and inclusive progress [17-20]. This emphasizes the significance of collective action and cooperation among stakeholders to cultivate a culture of safety, respect, and dignity in workplaces worldwide.
Data from international organizations, such as the International Labour Organization (ILO), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) offer a clear depiction of the extensive impact of occupational accidents and diseases globally. According to a recent report by the ILO, by 2022, there will be an estimated 2.78 million deaths annually due to work-related accidents and diseases. This statistic underscores the significant level of risk encountered by workers across various sectors and countries. In 2020, the WHO also shared concerning data, noting that as many as 16% of all deaths among adults aged 15-29 years are attributed to accidents and diseases arising in the workplace [21]. This emphasizes that this productive age group faces the highest vulnerability to risks in work environments. Beyond the human toll, occupational accidents and diseases carry substantial economic repercussions, as highlighted by the OECD in 2021. The costs linked to workplace accidents and diseases have amounted to approximately 4% of gross domestic product (GDP) in OECD member nations. This figure encompasses not only direct expenses, like medical care and compensation but also indirect costs such as reduced productivity and the enduring impact on the economy.
Prioritizing OSH is a principle now acknowledged as a crucial component of corporate strategy [22, 23]. This is substantiated by findings from various studies confirming that companies emphasizing safety, health, and well-being in the workplace gain an edge in averting potential negative costs. These studies demonstrate that companies that effectively prioritize OSH are more adept at handling occupational risks, diminishing the occurrence of workplace accidents, and mitigating costs linked to employee injuries or illnesses.
An occupational safety, health, and welfare management system serves as a crucial foundation for this endeavor, offering a structured framework for identifying, evaluating, and managing workplace risks. Through the implementation of an effective OSH management system, companies can enhance worker well-being, mitigate the risk of accidents and injuries, and decrease costs associated with operational inefficiencies or legal disputes. Moreover, prioritizing OSH also yields a positive impact on overall corporate performance. Companies that prioritize OSH tend to excel in terms of work productivity and operational efficiency [24-31]. By fostering a safe, healthy, and conducive work environment, companies can enhance employee performance, reduce absenteeism, and optimize productivity and work quality. Additionally, by minimizing the risk of workplace injuries or accidents, companies can lower expenses related to workers’ compensation, insurance, or equipment replacement [6]. Therefore, prioritizing OSH is not solely a moral obligation for companies but also a strategic investment that can yield long-term benefits for overall operations and corporate performance.
Worker health surveillance centers on establishing and analyzing indicators of diverse health-related parameters. This encompasses monitoring mortality rates, disability and employability, the occurrence of occupational diseases and injuries, and other work-related health conditions [29, 30]. Furthermore, surveillance involves tracking absenteeism, the manifestation of symptoms linked to occupational exposures, and even lifestyle factors that could influence workers’ health. Through the collection and analysis of such data, health professionals and policymakers can pinpoint emerging trends, patterns, and risks that necessitate attention and intervention.
Several previous studies have demonstrated that occupational safety, health, and well-being are crucial components of public health, with recent trends emphasizing their interconnected nature. The evolving landscape of OSH highlights the significance of public health. Recent trends underscore the connections between public health and occupational health, emphasizing the necessity for collaborative frameworks involving primary healthcare providers in various contexts [32]. Well-being, often mentioned alongside health, lacks a clear definition in policy, hindering its practical implementation [33]. Emphasis on occupational health indicators [34] and the prioritization of OSH keywords [35] underscores the importance of these factors in the public health domain. Furthermore, the integration of occupational health with public health objectives in settings, like workplaces, schools, homes, and leisure activities [36] underscores the need for a collaborative framework to enhance the health of the working population and, consequently, the population at large. Additionally, research has highlighted the impact of economic growth objectives on the quality of individuals’ occupational health, underscoring the importance of balancing safety and development for effective governance and high-quality economic progress [37]. Prioritizing safety, health, and well-being in the workplace is crucial for advancing health equity, population well-being, and sustainable economic development within the public health domain.
This research holds significant importance as worker safety and health are crucial aspects of establishing a safe and healthy working environment for all workers. With a growing awareness of work-related risks and their impact on mental and physical well-being, the necessity to emphasize this aspect has become increasingly urgent. Furthermore, by prioritizing the safety, health, and well-being of workers, this research also contributes to efforts aimed at fostering a healthier society overall. Recognizing the strong connections between worker well-being, productivity, business sustainability, and societal welfare amplifies the importance of this research. Additionally, the research addresses trends and shifts in the work environment, technology, and demographics. Our objective was to comprehend the latest trends and identify optimal approaches to tackle emerging challenges, thereby ensuring that workers’ safety, health, and well-being remain central to the sustainable development of society. Hence, this research is not only significant but also pertinent and supportive in laying a robust foundation for a safer, healthier, and more sustainable work environment for all. Taking into account the present global landscape, as well as alterations in regulations and technology, this research delves into how priorities regarding OSH have progressed, the driving forces behind these changes, and their implications on overall public health. Therefore, this study aimed to scrutinize current trends in prioritizing worker safety, health, and well-being in the workplace. This needs a thorough examination of recent policies, practices, and initiatives that advocate for worker safety, health, and well-being.
Information and Methods
This systematic review employed the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) model and VOSviewer software. VOSviewer is a valuable tool for mapping and visualizing information networks derived from bibliometric data. Through the utilization of VOSviewer, this research could pinpoint and analyze patterns of keyword co-occurrence, author relationships, and institutional collaborations within the scientific literature under review.
Initially, a systematic review of the literature on worker safety, health, and well-being was carried out using the PRISMA model [38, 39]. The process involved identifying search topics and pertinent keywords (such as occupational safety, health, well-being, and public health) and conducting a systematic literature search in the Scopus and SciSpace databases. The study was confined to articles published between 2014 and 2024 to ensure a focus on current trends and recent advancements in the realm of worker safety, health, and welfare. Article selection was based on stringent inclusion and exclusion criteria, followed by data extraction from the chosen articles and subsequent analysis to pinpoint trends, key themes, and current research recommendations in the field of OSH. The authors specifically conducted data selection using the following formula:
(TITLE-ABS-KEY (Occupational Safety) OR TITLE-ABS-KEY (Occupational Health Well-being) AND TITLE-ABS-KEY (Public Health) AND PUBYEAR>2014 AND PUBYEAR<2024 AND (LIMIT-TO (DOCTYPE, ar)) AND (LIMIT-TO (PUBSTAGE, final)) AND (LIMIT-TO (SRCTYPE, j)) AND (LIMIT-TO (LANGUAGE, English)) AND (LIMIT-TO (OA, all)) AND (LIMIT-TO (SUBJAREA, MEDI) OR LIMIT-TO (SUBJAREA, ENVI) OR LIMIT-TO (SUBJAREA, SOCI) OR LIMIT-TO (SUBJAREA, ENGI)).
Following the acquisition of relevant literature through the PRISMA model (Figure 1), the subsequent step involved conducting analysis using VOSviewer software. At this juncture, the most pertinent and frequently encountered keywords in the relevant literature were pinpointed for further examination [33, 40, 41]. VOSviewer was employed to scrutinize the co-occurrence among keywords, authors, and institutions associated with the research topic. This process aids in identifying relationships between key concepts in the literature and visualizing collaboration networks and research trends in the realm of worker safety, health, and well-being. By amalgamating the PRISMA model for a systematic review of the literature with an analytical tool like VOSviewer, this study offered a comprehensive comprehension of current trends in worker safety, health, and well-being and the contributions of scientific literature to this domain. This methodology not only assists in prioritizing efforts to enhance working conditions and worker health but also furnishes a robust foundation for shaping sustainable public health policies and interventions.
![src=./files/hehp/images/HTML_Publish/74805/f1.png]()
Figure 1. PRISMA flowchart of the literature research
Findings
Trends in publication
Regarding the trend of research publications concerning “Occupational Safety,” “Occupational Health Well-being,” and “Public Health” from 2014 to 2024, there was a rise in the number of publications over the period (Figure 2). This increase can be attributed to several factors influencing the dynamics of scientific publications. Firstly, the growing recognition of the significance of occupational safety, health, well-being, and overall public health has spurred increased interest in research related to these subjects. A rising number of researchers are delving into aspects linked to worker well-being and its broader societal impact. Secondly, augmented funding for research in this field has also played a crucial role in boosting the publication count. The additional resources available enable researchers to conduct more comprehensive and extensive studies on workplace safety and health issues.
![src=./files/hehp/images/HTML_Publish/74805/f2.png]()
Figure 2. The trend in document publications from 2014 to 2024
Moreover, policy changes that prioritize OSH have served as another catalyst for the expansion of research in this domain. Regulatory and policy shifts encourage researchers to delve into issues concerning evolving work environments and practices. However, while the trend demonstrated an increase up to 2021, there was a decline in the number of publications from 2021 to 2024. This decline could be attributed to factors, such as shifting research priorities, fluctuations in funding, or a redirection of research focus towards other critical areas. Nevertheless, the role of public awareness, funding, and policy adjustments in fostering research growth in occupational safety, health, well-being, and public health more broadly remains a significant aspect of academic and practical advancements in the field.
The network visualization map offers a bibliometric analysis of publications from 2014 to 2024, focusing on terms associated with “Occupational Safety,” “Occupational Health Welfare,” and “Public Health” (Figure 3). The color gradient assigned to the nodes signifies the publication timeline, with each year within the specified period represented by a distinct color. Upon examining the map, several insights emerge. Firstly, the blue nodes, encompassing terms, like ‘occupational safety and health,’ ‘working conditions,’ ‘workplace,’ and ‘employee,’ exhibit a consistent emphasis in the literature, particularly before 2019. This indicates sustained interest and ongoing research in these areas leading up to that year. Furthermore, the green node denoting ‘public health’ displays a notable surge in publications around 2019. The proximity of ‘public health’ to ‘occupational health’ suggests interdisciplinary research between these fields during the specified period. Moreover, the emergence of yellow nodes highlighting terms, such as ‘COVID-19,’ ‘pandemic,’ ‘healthcare workers,’ and ‘infection risk’, signifies a rise in research concerning these topics from 2019 onwards. This surge was directly linked to the global COVID-19 pandemic, marking a significant shift in the literature toward understanding the pandemic’s impact on occupational safety, health well-being, and public health. Additionally, as the color transitions from yellow to orange, terms, like ‘infection prevention,’ ‘personal protective equipment,’ and ‘disease transmission’ gain prominence, indicating an increased focus on strategies to mitigate infection risks in the workplace as a direct response to the pandemic. Overall, this map illustrates the shifts observed in research focus and publication trends over time, particularly toward issues related to the pandemic and its implications for occupational and public health, driven by recent global events. The report also underscores the evolution of research priorities to address immediate issues stemming from the pandemic, such as workplace disease prevention and control, which received less emphasis before 2019.
![src=./files/hehp/images/HTML_Publish/74805/f3.png]()
Figure 3. Network visualization map.
Regarding the identification of publication trend analysis by research subject area related to “Occupational Safety,” “Occupational Health Well-being,” and “Public Health” in 2014-2024, there was a significant increase in several key areas (Figure 4). Firstly, the field of nursing experienced the most substantial increase in publications, reaching 54% by 2024, indicating a heightened interest and research focus concerning OSH. Concurrently, the field of chemistry demonstrated the second-largest increase in publications, reaching 22% by 2024, underscoring the significance of research in comprehending the interaction of chemicals with worker health. Conversely, the energy field exhibited the third largest increase in publications, reaching 7% by 2024, highlighting a research emphasis on addressing OSH issues within the energy sector. Fields, such as immunology, microbiology, biochemistry, genetics, and molecular biology each displayed a notable increase in publications by 2024, reflecting a keen interest in understanding infectious diseases and the mechanisms of work-related illnesses. Furthermore, the field of engineering also depicted a significant increase in publications, emphasizing the importance of developing technologies and solutions to enhance the safety and health of workers across various industrial sectors. Other disciplines, including social sciences, environmental sciences, pharmacology, toxicology, pharmacy, and psychology, also experienced an uptick in publications, showcasing the diverse range of research efforts aimed at addressing various OSH challenges. Overall, this trend affirmed the increasing significance and widespread research endeavors in this domain to tackle diverse workplace health and safety challenges.
![src=./files/hehp/images/HTML_Publish/74805/f4.png]()
Figure 4. The trend in publications by subject area
An analysis of research publication trends from 2014 to 2024 related to “Occupational Safety,” “Occupational Health Well-being,” and “Public Health” revealed a significant increase in certain countries. The United States ranked first with the highest number of publications in 2024, totaling 140 documents, affirming its position as a research leader in all three areas. In second place, the UK contributed 110 documents, underlining its significant role in research within this domain. Australia secured the third spot with 90 documents, showcasing its active engagement in related research. Moreover, China experienced a notable surge in publications, with a percentage increase of 133% by 2024, indicating a substantial uptick in research endeavors within the country. Similarly, Canada, Italy, Germany, and South Korea also demonstrated a significant increase in publications by 2024. Additionally, several other countries, such as Spain, France, Japan, the Netherlands, and Brazil observed an increase in publications, signifying the global proliferation of research in the realms of “Occupational Safety,” “Occupational Health Well-being,” and “Public Health” (Figure 5).
Several factors influence research publication trends in a country, including adequate research funding, the availability of researchers, government policies supporting research, and national research priorities. Countries with higher research funding typically produce more research publications, as do countries with a larger pool of researchers. Supportive government policies can also stimulate an increase in publications. Furthermore, research priorities established by governments and research institutions can shape the nature of research undertaken and published.
![src=./files/hehp/images/HTML_Publish/74805/f5.png]()
Figure 5. The trend in publications by country
The trend analysis of research publications spanning the period 2014-2024 related to “Occupational Safety,” “Occupational Health Well-being,” and “Public Health,” showed a notable increase across various journals, websites, and other sources (Figure 6). The International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health emerged as the leading source with the highest number of publications in 2024, totaling 40 documents, solidifying its pivotal role in the field. Following closely was Safety Science with 35 documents and BM
The increased recognition of the significance of occupational safety and health (OSH) in the workplace has garnered growing attention within the realm of public health [1, 2]. Workplace safety and health are no longer solely the responsibilities of individuals or organizations; they are also viewed as a public health necessity that profoundly influences the general well-being of society [3, 4]. Given the increasingly intricate shifts in the work environment, encompassing the impacts of globalization, technology, and economic dynamics, understanding the latest trends in OSH priorities is paramount [5].
OSH holds global significance, closely intertwined with the political, social, and economic landscapes of countries worldwide [6]. OSH stands as the culmination of workers’ rights stemming from historical demands and struggles [7-9]. The nature of work acts as a crucial determinant affecting the human condition, quality of life, and health on a universal scale.
Work not only serves as a means of sustenance but also as a pathway to respect, integration, sociability, recognition, and the forging of bonds and friendships within society [10]. However, across the globe, the living conditions of workers are subject to the fluctuations of economic growth, industrialization, and periods of recession [11, 12]. Such variations often prompt governments to implement adjustment measures and enact financial cuts in various social sectors, including education, health, safety, transportation, housing, and employment [13].
Workers’ endeavors to enhance OHS standards have a global impact, mirroring broader societal aspirations for dignity, fairness, and social justice [14, 15]. The development of OSH policies and practices often originates from historical movements and labor activism aimed at securing fundamental rights and protections for workers worldwide [16]. Dealing with the intricacies of ensuring OSH on a global scale necessitates a comprehensive approach. This includes integrating legislative frameworks, robust enforcement mechanisms, employer accountability, worker empowerment, and public awareness campaigns [17, 18]. Furthermore, addressing systemic issues like income inequality, healthcare accessibility, and social protection is crucial for upholding the health and well-being of the global workforce. Initiatives to enhance OSH go beyond national borders, embodying universal aspirations for fair and inclusive progress [17-20]. This emphasizes the significance of collective action and cooperation among stakeholders to cultivate a culture of safety, respect, and dignity in workplaces worldwide.
Data from international organizations, such as the International Labour Organization (ILO), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) offer a clear depiction of the extensive impact of occupational accidents and diseases globally. According to a recent report by the ILO, by 2022, there will be an estimated 2.78 million deaths annually due to work-related accidents and diseases. This statistic underscores the significant level of risk encountered by workers across various sectors and countries. In 2020, the WHO also shared concerning data, noting that as many as 16% of all deaths among adults aged 15-29 years are attributed to accidents and diseases arising in the workplace [21]. This emphasizes that this productive age group faces the highest vulnerability to risks in work environments. Beyond the human toll, occupational accidents and diseases carry substantial economic repercussions, as highlighted by the OECD in 2021. The costs linked to workplace accidents and diseases have amounted to approximately 4% of gross domestic product (GDP) in OECD member nations. This figure encompasses not only direct expenses, like medical care and compensation but also indirect costs such as reduced productivity and the enduring impact on the economy.
Prioritizing OSH is a principle now acknowledged as a crucial component of corporate strategy [22, 23]. This is substantiated by findings from various studies confirming that companies emphasizing safety, health, and well-being in the workplace gain an edge in averting potential negative costs. These studies demonstrate that companies that effectively prioritize OSH are more adept at handling occupational risks, diminishing the occurrence of workplace accidents, and mitigating costs linked to employee injuries or illnesses.
An occupational safety, health, and welfare management system serves as a crucial foundation for this endeavor, offering a structured framework for identifying, evaluating, and managing workplace risks. Through the implementation of an effective OSH management system, companies can enhance worker well-being, mitigate the risk of accidents and injuries, and decrease costs associated with operational inefficiencies or legal disputes. Moreover, prioritizing OSH also yields a positive impact on overall corporate performance. Companies that prioritize OSH tend to excel in terms of work productivity and operational efficiency [24-31]. By fostering a safe, healthy, and conducive work environment, companies can enhance employee performance, reduce absenteeism, and optimize productivity and work quality. Additionally, by minimizing the risk of workplace injuries or accidents, companies can lower expenses related to workers’ compensation, insurance, or equipment replacement [6]. Therefore, prioritizing OSH is not solely a moral obligation for companies but also a strategic investment that can yield long-term benefits for overall operations and corporate performance.
Worker health surveillance centers on establishing and analyzing indicators of diverse health-related parameters. This encompasses monitoring mortality rates, disability and employability, the occurrence of occupational diseases and injuries, and other work-related health conditions [29, 30]. Furthermore, surveillance involves tracking absenteeism, the manifestation of symptoms linked to occupational exposures, and even lifestyle factors that could influence workers’ health. Through the collection and analysis of such data, health professionals and policymakers can pinpoint emerging trends, patterns, and risks that necessitate attention and intervention.
Several previous studies have demonstrated that occupational safety, health, and well-being are crucial components of public health, with recent trends emphasizing their interconnected nature. The evolving landscape of OSH highlights the significance of public health. Recent trends underscore the connections between public health and occupational health, emphasizing the necessity for collaborative frameworks involving primary healthcare providers in various contexts [32]. Well-being, often mentioned alongside health, lacks a clear definition in policy, hindering its practical implementation [33]. Emphasis on occupational health indicators [34] and the prioritization of OSH keywords [35] underscores the importance of these factors in the public health domain. Furthermore, the integration of occupational health with public health objectives in settings, like workplaces, schools, homes, and leisure activities [36] underscores the need for a collaborative framework to enhance the health of the working population and, consequently, the population at large. Additionally, research has highlighted the impact of economic growth objectives on the quality of individuals’ occupational health, underscoring the importance of balancing safety and development for effective governance and high-quality economic progress [37]. Prioritizing safety, health, and well-being in the workplace is crucial for advancing health equity, population well-being, and sustainable economic development within the public health domain.
This research holds significant importance as worker safety and health are crucial aspects of establishing a safe and healthy working environment for all workers. With a growing awareness of work-related risks and their impact on mental and physical well-being, the necessity to emphasize this aspect has become increasingly urgent. Furthermore, by prioritizing the safety, health, and well-being of workers, this research also contributes to efforts aimed at fostering a healthier society overall. Recognizing the strong connections between worker well-being, productivity, business sustainability, and societal welfare amplifies the importance of this research. Additionally, the research addresses trends and shifts in the work environment, technology, and demographics. Our objective was to comprehend the latest trends and identify optimal approaches to tackle emerging challenges, thereby ensuring that workers’ safety, health, and well-being remain central to the sustainable development of society. Hence, this research is not only significant but also pertinent and supportive in laying a robust foundation for a safer, healthier, and more sustainable work environment for all. Taking into account the present global landscape, as well as alterations in regulations and technology, this research delves into how priorities regarding OSH have progressed, the driving forces behind these changes, and their implications on overall public health. Therefore, this study aimed to scrutinize current trends in prioritizing worker safety, health, and well-being in the workplace. This needs a thorough examination of recent policies, practices, and initiatives that advocate for worker safety, health, and well-being.
Information and Methods
This systematic review employed the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) model and VOSviewer software. VOSviewer is a valuable tool for mapping and visualizing information networks derived from bibliometric data. Through the utilization of VOSviewer, this research could pinpoint and analyze patterns of keyword co-occurrence, author relationships, and institutional collaborations within the scientific literature under review.
Initially, a systematic review of the literature on worker safety, health, and well-being was carried out using the PRISMA model [38, 39]. The process involved identifying search topics and pertinent keywords (such as occupational safety, health, well-being, and public health) and conducting a systematic literature search in the Scopus and SciSpace databases. The study was confined to articles published between 2014 and 2024 to ensure a focus on current trends and recent advancements in the realm of worker safety, health, and welfare. Article selection was based on stringent inclusion and exclusion criteria, followed by data extraction from the chosen articles and subsequent analysis to pinpoint trends, key themes, and current research recommendations in the field of OSH. The authors specifically conducted data selection using the following formula:
(TITLE-ABS-KEY (Occupational Safety) OR TITLE-ABS-KEY (Occupational Health Well-being) AND TITLE-ABS-KEY (Public Health) AND PUBYEAR>2014 AND PUBYEAR<2024 AND (LIMIT-TO (DOCTYPE, ar)) AND (LIMIT-TO (PUBSTAGE, final)) AND (LIMIT-TO (SRCTYPE, j)) AND (LIMIT-TO (LANGUAGE, English)) AND (LIMIT-TO (OA, all)) AND (LIMIT-TO (SUBJAREA, MEDI) OR LIMIT-TO (SUBJAREA, ENVI) OR LIMIT-TO (SUBJAREA, SOCI) OR LIMIT-TO (SUBJAREA, ENGI)).
Following the acquisition of relevant literature through the PRISMA model (Figure 1), the subsequent step involved conducting analysis using VOSviewer software. At this juncture, the most pertinent and frequently encountered keywords in the relevant literature were pinpointed for further examination [33, 40, 41]. VOSviewer was employed to scrutinize the co-occurrence among keywords, authors, and institutions associated with the research topic. This process aids in identifying relationships between key concepts in the literature and visualizing collaboration networks and research trends in the realm of worker safety, health, and well-being. By amalgamating the PRISMA model for a systematic review of the literature with an analytical tool like VOSviewer, this study offered a comprehensive comprehension of current trends in worker safety, health, and well-being and the contributions of scientific literature to this domain. This methodology not only assists in prioritizing efforts to enhance working conditions and worker health but also furnishes a robust foundation for shaping sustainable public health policies and interventions.
Figure 1. PRISMA flowchart of the literature research
Findings
Trends in publication
Regarding the trend of research publications concerning “Occupational Safety,” “Occupational Health Well-being,” and “Public Health” from 2014 to 2024, there was a rise in the number of publications over the period (Figure 2). This increase can be attributed to several factors influencing the dynamics of scientific publications. Firstly, the growing recognition of the significance of occupational safety, health, well-being, and overall public health has spurred increased interest in research related to these subjects. A rising number of researchers are delving into aspects linked to worker well-being and its broader societal impact. Secondly, augmented funding for research in this field has also played a crucial role in boosting the publication count. The additional resources available enable researchers to conduct more comprehensive and extensive studies on workplace safety and health issues.
Figure 2. The trend in document publications from 2014 to 2024
Moreover, policy changes that prioritize OSH have served as another catalyst for the expansion of research in this domain. Regulatory and policy shifts encourage researchers to delve into issues concerning evolving work environments and practices. However, while the trend demonstrated an increase up to 2021, there was a decline in the number of publications from 2021 to 2024. This decline could be attributed to factors, such as shifting research priorities, fluctuations in funding, or a redirection of research focus towards other critical areas. Nevertheless, the role of public awareness, funding, and policy adjustments in fostering research growth in occupational safety, health, well-being, and public health more broadly remains a significant aspect of academic and practical advancements in the field.
The network visualization map offers a bibliometric analysis of publications from 2014 to 2024, focusing on terms associated with “Occupational Safety,” “Occupational Health Welfare,” and “Public Health” (Figure 3). The color gradient assigned to the nodes signifies the publication timeline, with each year within the specified period represented by a distinct color. Upon examining the map, several insights emerge. Firstly, the blue nodes, encompassing terms, like ‘occupational safety and health,’ ‘working conditions,’ ‘workplace,’ and ‘employee,’ exhibit a consistent emphasis in the literature, particularly before 2019. This indicates sustained interest and ongoing research in these areas leading up to that year. Furthermore, the green node denoting ‘public health’ displays a notable surge in publications around 2019. The proximity of ‘public health’ to ‘occupational health’ suggests interdisciplinary research between these fields during the specified period. Moreover, the emergence of yellow nodes highlighting terms, such as ‘COVID-19,’ ‘pandemic,’ ‘healthcare workers,’ and ‘infection risk’, signifies a rise in research concerning these topics from 2019 onwards. This surge was directly linked to the global COVID-19 pandemic, marking a significant shift in the literature toward understanding the pandemic’s impact on occupational safety, health well-being, and public health. Additionally, as the color transitions from yellow to orange, terms, like ‘infection prevention,’ ‘personal protective equipment,’ and ‘disease transmission’ gain prominence, indicating an increased focus on strategies to mitigate infection risks in the workplace as a direct response to the pandemic. Overall, this map illustrates the shifts observed in research focus and publication trends over time, particularly toward issues related to the pandemic and its implications for occupational and public health, driven by recent global events. The report also underscores the evolution of research priorities to address immediate issues stemming from the pandemic, such as workplace disease prevention and control, which received less emphasis before 2019.
Figure 3. Network visualization map.
Regarding the identification of publication trend analysis by research subject area related to “Occupational Safety,” “Occupational Health Well-being,” and “Public Health” in 2014-2024, there was a significant increase in several key areas (Figure 4). Firstly, the field of nursing experienced the most substantial increase in publications, reaching 54% by 2024, indicating a heightened interest and research focus concerning OSH. Concurrently, the field of chemistry demonstrated the second-largest increase in publications, reaching 22% by 2024, underscoring the significance of research in comprehending the interaction of chemicals with worker health. Conversely, the energy field exhibited the third largest increase in publications, reaching 7% by 2024, highlighting a research emphasis on addressing OSH issues within the energy sector. Fields, such as immunology, microbiology, biochemistry, genetics, and molecular biology each displayed a notable increase in publications by 2024, reflecting a keen interest in understanding infectious diseases and the mechanisms of work-related illnesses. Furthermore, the field of engineering also depicted a significant increase in publications, emphasizing the importance of developing technologies and solutions to enhance the safety and health of workers across various industrial sectors. Other disciplines, including social sciences, environmental sciences, pharmacology, toxicology, pharmacy, and psychology, also experienced an uptick in publications, showcasing the diverse range of research efforts aimed at addressing various OSH challenges. Overall, this trend affirmed the increasing significance and widespread research endeavors in this domain to tackle diverse workplace health and safety challenges.
Figure 4. The trend in publications by subject area
An analysis of research publication trends from 2014 to 2024 related to “Occupational Safety,” “Occupational Health Well-being,” and “Public Health” revealed a significant increase in certain countries. The United States ranked first with the highest number of publications in 2024, totaling 140 documents, affirming its position as a research leader in all three areas. In second place, the UK contributed 110 documents, underlining its significant role in research within this domain. Australia secured the third spot with 90 documents, showcasing its active engagement in related research. Moreover, China experienced a notable surge in publications, with a percentage increase of 133% by 2024, indicating a substantial uptick in research endeavors within the country. Similarly, Canada, Italy, Germany, and South Korea also demonstrated a significant increase in publications by 2024. Additionally, several other countries, such as Spain, France, Japan, the Netherlands, and Brazil observed an increase in publications, signifying the global proliferation of research in the realms of “Occupational Safety,” “Occupational Health Well-being,” and “Public Health” (Figure 5).
Several factors influence research publication trends in a country, including adequate research funding, the availability of researchers, government policies supporting research, and national research priorities. Countries with higher research funding typically produce more research publications, as do countries with a larger pool of researchers. Supportive government policies can also stimulate an increase in publications. Furthermore, research priorities established by governments and research institutions can shape the nature of research undertaken and published.
Figure 5. The trend in publications by country
The trend analysis of research publications spanning the period 2014-2024 related to “Occupational Safety,” “Occupational Health Well-being,” and “Public Health,” showed a notable increase across various journals, websites, and other sources (Figure 6). The International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health emerged as the leading source with the highest number of publications in 2024, totaling 40 documents, solidifying its pivotal role in the field. Following closely was Safety Science with 35 documents and BM