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).