INVESTIGATING THE OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY PRACTICES IN SERBIA

Occupational health and safety (OHS) represents a key aspect of decent work, as recognized in the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly SDG 8 – decent work and economic growth, and especially set in the 8.8 target. Health and safety workplace is not only a fundamental labour right, but also a crucial factor in promoting sustainable economic growth, ensuring full employment, and supporting decent work for everyone. Although substantial advancements have been made in OHS over the years, many workers still experience work-related injuries and illnesses, and some tragically lose their lives due to exposure to various occupational hazards and risks. Therefore, the main aim of the paper is to assess the OHS practices in Serbia. For this purpose, a questionnaire was designed covering 7 aspects of OHS culture in organisations: vision, credibility, collaboration, feedback and recognition, responsibility, communication, and action orientation. The analysis of the obtained results revealed areas for improvement in the existing OHS practices, thus enabling the strengthening of OHS in organizations and enhancing the well-being of workers.