Current Status and Future Outlook on Occupational Health and Safety Research in Sudan: A Concise Review

Abstract

The concept of occupational health and safety (OHS) describes the strategies, guidelines, and actions typically adopted and implemented to prevent, minimize or manage the risks associated with the health and safety of people and property. Over the years, the rapid growth, development and operation of various industries in developing countries have resulted in numerous accidents, injuries and illnesses. Given the short- and long-term effects of such issues, it is imperative to identify, examine and highlight the potential areas where workplace-related incidences could occur in the industry. Therefore, this paper presents an overview of the current status and future outlook on occupational health and safety (OHS) research in Sudan. The review of the literature indicates that although OHS research is still in its infancy in Sudan, various researchers have examined the nature, sources, and impacts of accidents, injuries, and illnesses that severely comprise workers’ health and safety. Furthermore, workers in Sudan are routinely exposed to toxic chemicals, medical wastes, noxious gases, noise pollution and other workplace-related risks that severely affect human health, safety and the environment. However, many employers, workers and government agencies have ample knowledge of OHS and its importance in the workplace. The studies also highlighted the crucial role played by OHS not only on health and safety but also the overall organisational performance and operational management in workplaces. Therefore, the design, development, and integration of OHS programmes into the workplace could greatly minimize and eliminate work-related accidents, illness, injuries or death.