Occupational Health Meaning: Protecting Workers in Every Role

Occupational health refers to the systematic approach of safeguarding the physical, mental, and social well-being of workers across all industries. Unlike general healthcare, which focuses on treating illness after it occurs, occupational health emphasizes prevention—identifying workplace hazards before they cause harm. This proactive strategy ensures safe working conditions, reduces injury rates, and supports long-term employee health.

What Is Occupational Health?

At its core, occupational health integrates medicine, ergonomics, psychology, and workplace safety to create environments where people can thrive. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines it as