8292201 Facilitators and barriers to the effective delivery of occupational safety and health services: understanding current trends from a global perspective

<h3>Objective</h3> Occupational safety and health (OSH) services play a critical role in preventing work-related injuries and illnesses, supporting worker well-being, and enabling sustainable economic productivity. Yet despite their recognised importance, an estimated 75% of the global workforce lacks access to OSH services. Significant disparities persist between high-income countries and low- and middle-income countries, where implementation remains fragmented and inequitable, and among workers in small and medium-sized enterprises and informal sectors. This study explores the facilitators and barriers of OSH service delivery across diverse countries, with a focus on positioning OSH as a universal fundamental right at work. <h3>Materials and Methods</h3> 25-30 online semi-structured interviews are being conducted via Microsoft Teams with stakeholders across high-, middle-, and low-income countries. Participants include experts in occupational health, occupational safety, and related fields such as sustainability and human or labour rights. Data will be later analysed using a thematic analysis, which will be concluded before the presentation of this paper. <h3>Results</h3> Findings will be categorised according to key facilitators and barriers identified during the initial literature review phase. The study is expected to reveal both shared and context-specific patterns across countries. As such, facilitators and barriers will include, but are not limited to, governance structures, regulatory frameworks, financing mechanisms, workforce capacity, integration with primary healthcare systems, and access for vulnerable worker populations. <h3>Conclusion</h3> This study will generate insights into the conditions that enable or hinder OSH service delivery worldwide. Drawing on stakeholder perspectives and existing literature, it will inform an updated conceptual model focused on positioning OSH as a universal fundamental right. Findings will guide actionable recommendations to improve access, equity, and integration of OSH services. <h3>Funding and Acknowledgements</h3> This research is funded by the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) and conducted in collaboration with the International Commission on Occupational Health (ICOH).