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The Experience and Perception of Occupational Health and Safety Expert Work During the COVID-19 Pandemic—A Qualitative Study Among Latvian Occupational Health and Safety Experts

Author

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  • Linda Matisāne

    (Institute of Occupational Safety and Environmental Health, Rīga Stradiņš University, Dzirciema 16, LV-1007 Riga, Latvia)

  • Lāsma Akūlova

    (Institute of Occupational Safety and Environmental Health, Rīga Stradiņš University, Dzirciema 16, LV-1007 Riga, Latvia)

  • Linda Paegle

    (Institute of Occupational Safety and Environmental Health, Rīga Stradiņš University, Dzirciema 16, LV-1007 Riga, Latvia)

  • Monta Matisāne

    (Institute of Occupational Safety and Environmental Health, Rīga Stradiņš University, Dzirciema 16, LV-1007 Riga, Latvia)

  • Ivars Vanadziņš

    (Institute of Occupational Safety and Environmental Health, Rīga Stradiņš University, Dzirciema 16, LV-1007 Riga, Latvia)

Abstract

The study examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on occupational safety and health (OSH) experts in Latvia, focusing on their work demands, evolving responsibilities, and the broader implications for sustainable workforce management. Through focus group discussions with 17 OSH experts in 2022, findings reveal that pandemic-induced responsibilities, such as implementing new health protocols and adapting to remote work, increased OSH experts’ workloads and the complexity of their roles. This shift raised concerns over potential burnout and reduced capacity to address traditional workplace hazards, which are essential for a safe and resilient work environment. The study underscores the critical role of OSH in promoting sustainable workplaces by safeguarding worker health and supporting adaptable, equitable labor practices that align with socio-economic sustainability goals. Recommendations include strengthening team-based approaches and enhancing mental health resources within OSH systems to foster sustainable development in occupational health. These insights are vital for developing policies and practices that not only respond to current OSH challenges but also contribute to the long-term sustainability of workforce health and safety systems and prepare these systems for possible future critical conditions.

Suggested Citation

  • Linda Matisāne & Lāsma Akūlova & Linda Paegle & Monta Matisāne & Ivars Vanadziņš, 2024. "The Experience and Perception of Occupational Health and Safety Expert Work During the COVID-19 Pandemic—A Qualitative Study Among Latvian Occupational Health and Safety Experts," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(22), pages 1-13, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:16:y:2024:i:22:p:9924-:d:1520759
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Eun-Mi Baek & Woo-Yung Kim & Yoon-Jeong Kwon, 2021. "The Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Workplace Accidents in Korea," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(16), pages 1-14, August.
    2. Linda Matisāne & Linda Paegle & Maija Eglīte & Lāsma Akūlova & Asnate Anna Linde & Ivars Vanadziņš & Iveta Mietule & Jeļena Lonska & Lienīte Litavniece & Iluta Arbidāne & Sarmīte Rozentāle & Ieva Grīn, 2021. "Reasons for Low Protection of Vulnerable Workers from COVID-19—Results from the Quantitative and Qualitative Study on Working Life in Latvia," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(10), pages 1-20, May.
    3. Linda Matisāne & Linda Paegle & Lāsma Akūlova & Ivars Vanadziņš, 2021. "Challenges for Workplace Risk Assessment in Home Offices—Results from a Qualitative Descriptive Study on Working Life during the First Wave of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Latvia," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(20), pages 1-19, October.
    4. David Gold & Stuart Hughes & David Thomas, 2021. "Perceptions, experiences and opportunities for occupational safety and health professionals arising out of the COVID-19 Pandemic," Palgrave Communications, Palgrave Macmillan, vol. 8(1), pages 1-14, December.
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