DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES IN THE OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY SYSTEM: SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT AND DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Abstract

Introduction. The article examines the role of digital technologies in the occupational health and safety (OHS) system and their potential to improve the effectiveness of industrial risk management. The relevance of the topic is driven by the increasing technical complexity of production processes, the limitations of manual control, the dependence of outcomes on the human factor, and the need for rapid collection and processing of data on working conditions. The purpose of the study is to systematize key digital solutions for OHS, identify their advantages and implementation barriers, and outline prospects for the development of digital solutions in the field of life safety. The methodological basis includes the analysis and synthesis of scientific and applied sources, as well as systemic and logical-structural approaches. Scientific novelty. The main directions of OHS digitalization are systematized as follows: automated monitoring of the parameters of the working environment (temperature, humidity, noise level, vibration, dust and gas concentrations, illumination) based on sensors and the Internet of Things with the generation of alerts when deviations from standards occur; electronic records of briefings, training, knowledge assessments, medical examinations, and work permits/authorizations; digital risk management (hazard identification, assessment, risk maps, and planning of mitigation measures); mobile applications and digital platforms for оперативне informing employees, recording violations, reporting incidents, and submitting requests to eliminate hazards. Conclusions. The paper also highlights the capabilities of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data analytics for predicting hazardous situations, identifying patterns in occupational injuries, and substantiating evidence-based preventive decisions. It is determined that digital tools increase the speed and transparency of control, reduce the impact of the human factor, enhance employee engagement, and contribute to building a safety culture. At the same time, implementation is constrained by the high cost of hardware and software, uneven digital competencies of personnel, the need for change management and updating internal regulations, as well as cybersecurity and personal data protection risks. It is emphasized that the effectiveness of digitalization is possible only through a comprehensive approach: technical equipment, staff training, adaptation of procedures, and data audits. Future development prospects are associated with the integration of comprehensive HSE platforms, video analytics for compliance with safety requirements, the use of digital twins for risk modeling, and strengthening cyber protection during digital transformation.