Developing Hazard Identification & Risk Assessment and Emergency Preparedness frameworks in industrial settings to improve efficiency: insights from Dairy and Pulp & Paper sectors

The rapid growth of industries has brought about significant advancements in technology and production processes, leading to increased efficiency and productivity. However, this progress has also increased workplace accidents, occupational health concerns, and environmental risks. Occupational injuries and accidents are the major global problems, particularly in developing countries. According to the statistics given by ISO and ILO, over 7600 people die each day, i.e., around 2.75 million every year globally, because of workplace hazards. This study is focused on Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems (OHSMS), which gives information about how these OHSMS work and how effective they are in minimizing workrelated injuries, accidents, diseases, and deaths. Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems (OHSMS) is a systematic approach to the management of an organization's Health and Safety, which involves identifying, assessing, and controlling risks associated with various work activities in the workplace. For any industry or organization to be successful, it needs to have an effective Occupational Health and Safety Management System because a successful OHSMS is a continuous improvement process that ensures the Health and Safety of employers and workers and contributes to organizational efficiency. The primary objective of this research is to explore the intricate relationship between OHSMS and industrial efficiency within various organizational contexts. A comprehensive literature study established the theoretical foundation, drawing from existing studies on Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems (OHSMS). This study highlights the potential benefits of a well-integrated OHSMS, including reduced workplace accidents, improved employee morale, enhanced regulatory compliance, and optimized resource allocation. The research methodology involves a mixed-methods approach, i.e., semi-quantitative analysis. The data collection in the semi-quantitative phase involves in-depth interviews, physical inspection, health and safety practices, and procedures being followed within the organization. This study mainly focuses on framing the two core elements of Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems (OHSMS), which are Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment and Emergency Preparedness Plan, using different methods. To fulfil the study's objectives, the core elements of Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems (OHSMS) are implemented in two different industries: Dairy, Pulp and Paper. Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment is conducted by qualitative (HAZOP - Hazard Operability Study) and semi-quantitative techniques (Assessment based on Risk rating) for the Dairy industry. Emergency Preparedness Plan is developed qualitatively by considering complete plant information. For the Pulp and Paper Industry, Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment is conducted using the quantitative technique (Assessment based on Risk rating), and an Emergency Preparedness Plan is developed qualitatively by considering complete plant information. This research's findings will be formulated using different methods and procedures on the collected data, revealing a correlation between effective OHSMS implementation and improvements in industrial overall efficiency. Organizations prioritizing OHSMS tend to experience fewer accidents and injuries, reducing downtime, decreased insurance costs, and improved employee morale. This research contributes to both academia and industry by offering evidence-based insights into the ways in which OHSMS integration can positively impact not only workplace safety and employee well-being, but also the broader operational efficiency of organizations.