The role of epistemology in engineering-based occupational health and safety management systems

This article explores the role of epistemology in the development and application of Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Management Systems within engineering. By employing a content analysis methodology, the research delves into the philosophical underpinnings that shape the conceptualization and evolution of OHS as a scientific discipline. The study traces the historical development of human interaction with work, referencing key figures such as Plato, Saint Thomas Aquinas, Darwin, Maslow, and Karl Popper, to build a comprehensive understanding of the epistemological framework governing OHS. The research highlights the recognition of OHS by the International Labor Organization (ILO) in the 1970s, emphasizing the application of Deming’s continuous improvement cycle for accident prevention and health protection. This paper argues that epistemology, through knowledge construction, paradigm establishment, and the application of Popper's falsificationism, supports the recognition of OHS Management as a legitimate science. By connecting these epistemological principles with practical approaches to risk management and safety practices, the study provides insights into the interdisciplinary nature of OHS in engineering. The conclusions suggest that OHS Management must be considered a dynamic and evolving science, crucial for ensuring worker safety and organizational health at multiple levels. This interdisciplinary approach links the philosophical with the technical, establishing a strong foundation for future studies and applications in OHS within engineering fields.