Occupational health promotion and protection
Occupational health promotion involves taking proactive steps in the workplace to improve the overall well-being of employees. This includes creating a positive work environment, promoting healthy behaviors, and preventing health issues before they occur (56). When addressing occupational hazards, health promotion activities may consist of implementing wellness programs, initiatives to manage stress, interventions to improve ergonomics, and educational campaigns to inform employees about potential workplace risks. The objective is to empower workers to make healthier choices and establish a work environment that fosters both their physical and mental health (56).
Occupational health protection on the other hand entails implementing preventive measures and safeguards to reduce or eliminate risks associated with workplace hazards (57). This involves following safety protocols, using personal protective equipment (PPE), adhering to occupational health and safety standards, and identifying and controlling potential hazards. The goal of occupational health protection is to guarantee the physical safety of workers, prevent accidents and injuries, and shield against the harmful effects of occupational exposures. It encompasses the establishment of a secure and hazard-free work environment through activities such as risk assessment, hazard control, and the enforcement of safety regulations (57).