Abstract
The purpose of this chapter is to provide the conceptual framework, design, and vital elements of implementation of an effective and efficient occupational health and safety (OHS) performance management system in an enterprise. The aim of the chapter is to emphasize the importance of a managerial, systematic, and integral approach to the management of OHS performance, which is a field often left in the shadow of other performance dimensions. This chapter develops the specific framework of OHS performance management, which is characterized by the four key OHS performance phases: planning, measurement, analysis, and reporting. The proposed conceptual framework and the highlighted key aspects of OHS performance management are intended to aid managers in various industries (with particularly prominent OHS risks and hazards) in the development and implementation of the OHS management system and the OHS performance management system. Their proper implementation is aimed at the accomplishment of OHS goals and the business goals of enterprises in the contemporary business environment.
TopIn parallel with the growing awareness of the need for continuous improvement of quality of life, health protection, and occupational safety, increased focus is being placed on enterprises’ obligation to assume additional responsibility in these fields, as well. Accordingly, OHS performance comes under the spotlight, together with the relevant legislation that is constantly being developed. The legislation mandates enterprises to:
Key Terms in this Chapter
OHS Performance Measurement: Is a process of identifying and quantifying OHS performance.
OHS Performance Management: Is a process in which managers make decisions, define goals, monitor processes, correct unwanted occurrences, identify OHS performance factors, analyze, measure, reward, etc., all for the purpose of achieving a desired level of OHS performance, as well as continuously improving OHS performance within their purview according to their position in the organizational and management structure of the enterprise.
OHS Performance Planning: Is a process of defining target levels of OHS performance, i.e., a process of formulating OHS policy, OHS strategy, and OHS plans/budgets.
OHS Performance Reporting: Is an activity that provides equity holders, managers, and employees with an insight into the achieved OHS performance, the analysis of deviations from the set OHS performance standards and goals, as well as the analysis of contributing factors and issues causing deviations.
OHS Performance Analysis: Is a process involving investigation, discovery, and analysis of potential deviations from the desired (target) level of OHS performance, identification of factors, responsible persons, critical activities, and processes causing the deviations, as well as proposal of measures in terms of determining actions and adopting programs for OHS performance improvement.
OHS Performance: Refers to the characteristics, inputs, effects, outputs, and outcomes associated with OHS hazards and risks as well as with OHS activities and processes in an enterprise.