Developing a model for prioritizing occupational risk prevention practices in industries: a Delphi study

Occupational accidents, injuries, and diseases remain critical health concerns. Designing and implementing checklists for occupational risk prevention are key strategies to mitigate these accidents and their adverse effects. However, due to the diverse nature of occupational hazards, these checklists tend to encompass a substantial number of prevention practices, making their full implementation challenging in terms of financial and human resources. Hence, this study aims to propose a prioritization model for these practices. By identifying and prioritizing the most crucial prevention practices, we can optimize resource allocation and enhance the overall effectiveness of occupational risk reduction. To develop a model, we initiated with the utilization of the Delphi method and conducted semi-structured interviews to identify the influencing factors in prioritizing occupational risk prevention practices. Through this process, we identified the type of hazard, the nature of prevention practices, cost considerations, and priority rankings as significant influential factors. Subsequently, we introduced a model designed to prioritize prevention practices in alignment with industry needs and the identified factors. This proposed model encompasses a comprehensive integration of the identified factors. The proposed model was designed and developed based on 146 prevention practices. The initial version of the software based on the developed model has been implemented and tested by users. The developed model can be used as a decision support system for managers, offering a roadmap delineating the order of prevention practices according to set priorities. Through such strategic alignment, the model holds the potential to wield a profound impact on enhancing occupational safety and health within organizational contexts.