Technological advancements in occupational health: enhancing workplace safety and well-being

The advancement of technology has significantly impacted occupational health, improving the monitoring, prevention, and management of work-related health issues. Technologies such as wearable devices, artificial intelligence (AI), telemedicine, and electronic health records (EHRs) have enabled occupational health professionals to enhance workplace safety and employee well-being. Wearable devices, such as smartwatches and biometric sensors, monitor vital signs and physical activity, alerting workers to risks of fatigue or exposure to hazardous conditions, helping to prevent accidents and injuries, especially in high-risk sectors such as construction and manufacturing. AI, in turn, analyzes large datasets to predict health risks and recommend preventive measures, as well as chatbots and virtual assistants providing real-time guidance. Telemedicine, allowing remote consultations, has been essential for workers in remote locations, ensuring quick access to medical care and early intervention. Electronic health records (EHRs) centralize workers' medical histories, facilitating monitoring and communication between healthcare professionals and employers. Additionally, technologies such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) have been used for training and safety simulations, preparing workers for risky situations. Recent research highlights the importance of these technologies in improving working conditions and promoting occupational health, while also pointing out challenges such as privacy concerns and increased psychological pressure for adopting these solutions.