By Micheal Boa, Certification Director and OSH Expert, GICG Australia
April 28, 2025 marks the annual World Day for Safety and Health at Work, a global initiative by the International Labour Organization (ILO) to promote the prevention of occupational accidents and diseases. This year, the spotlight falls on how rapid digital transformation and artificial intelligence is reshaping workplace environments—bringing both opportunity and new challenges to occupational health and safety (OSH).
About this year’s theme
The theme will focus on the impacts of digitalization and artificial intelligence (AI) on workers’ safety and health. This theme will examine various new technologies through an occupational safety and health lens, including: Advanced robots; Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning; Exoskeletons; Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs); Internet of Things (IoT); Virtual and Augmented Reality. It also sheds light on new work practices, such as automation of tasks, big data analysis, smart digital systems and workers management through AI.
Navigating OSH in a Digital World
As workplaces continue to embrace automation, AI, and remote technologies, the boundaries between physical and digital safety are increasingly blurred. Without adequate OSH measures, digital technologies can lead to accidents, ergonomic risks, work intensification, reduced job control, and blurred work-life boundaries.
This year’s observance is a timely reminder that occupational safety must evolve in parallel with technological advancement. ISO 45001 – Occupational health and safety management systems – provides the flexibility and framework to address both traditional and emerging risks—making it a critical tool for digital-era risk management.
Embracing ISO 45001 for Safer, Smarter Workplaces
ISO 45001 is an international standard that specifies requirements for an occupational health and safety management system (OHSMS), designed to help organizations proactively manage risks, reduce incidents, and build a strong safety culture. Applicable to any industry or size, it shifts safety from reactive compliance to preventive action.
As digital technologies reshape how we work, they also introduce new OSH challenges—such as ergonomic strain, work intensification, and diminished work-life balance. ISO 45001 equips organizations to address both traditional and modern risks, including psychosocial factors, through a flexible yet structured framework.
At GICG, we support businesses in auditing and improving OHSMS, ensuring they stay resilient and people-focused in a fast-evolving work environment. Our experience across sectors like manufacturing, electronics, logistics, and packaging reinforces the value of proactive safety strategies in enhancing operational continuity, employee morale, and stakeholder confidence.
How ISO 45001 Supports Organizations in Tackling Modern OSH Challenges
- Holistic Approach to Physical and Psychosocial Hazards
ISO 45001 recognizes that modern work environments are shaped not only by physical conditions but also by psychosocial factors. It helps organizations address issues like mental fatigue, burnout, and stress—risks that are amplified by digital technologies and evolving work dynamics. - Shifting from Reactive to Preventive Mindsets
Rather than waiting for incidents to occur, ISO 45001 promotes a culture of anticipation. It empowers organizations to proactively identify and manage potential hazards—critical in today’s fast-moving, tech-driven workplaces. - Adapting to Emerging Technologies
As companies embrace innovations such as AI, robotics, and remote work systems, ISO 45001 provides a flexible structure to evaluate and manage new risks. Whether it’s reducing ergonomic strain or ensuring safe interactions between people and machines, the standard supports technology integration without compromising safety. - Fostering Worker Engagement and Transparency
Worker consultation and participation are core principles of ISO 45001. In a world where job roles and oversight are increasingly shaped by algorithms and digital systems, involving employees in safety decisions ensures that their voices remain central to workplace well-being. - Enhancing Organizational Resilience
Embedding health and safety into business planning strengthens resilience. ISO 45001 helps organizations prepare for and respond to disruptions—from public health crises to cybersecurity threats—ensuring continuity and confidence. - Reinforcing ESG and Responsible Business Practices
ISO 45001 aligns closely with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) priorities. By demonstrating care for employee safety and ethical work conditions, businesses strengthen their “social” pillar and build trust with stakeholders.
As we observe World Day for Safety and Health at Work 2025, we encourage all organizations to:
- Evaluate their current OSH practices
- Consider implementing or upgrading to ISO 45001
- Embrace safety as a core part of their digital transformation
Let’s work together to create environments where innovation and well-being thrive side by side.
To learn more about how GICG can support your ISO 45001 journey: https://gicgrp.com/certifications/iso-45001-occupational-health-safety-management-system/
