O-195 Evolution of Occupational Health in a Developing Country From the Lens of an Industrial Physician

Abstract Introduction India contributes a staggering 25% of global working population, thanks to its population and demographics. Occupational health in India has grown and evolved over last 40 years which coincided with my career as an Industrial Physician and later as an academician. Methods and results Evolution of modern occupational health in India is heavily influenced by three events: 1. The infamous ‘Bhopal Gas Disaster’ in December 1984 claimed more than 25000 lives. It led to major changes in the legislations and statutory requirements for the industry in general and chemical industry in particular. This led to focus on regular medical surveillance. 2. The economic crisis in 1991, led to liberalization and attracted global corporations to India who brought global health and safety standards giving a boost to further development of workplace exposure monitoring. Establishment and expansion of service industry in India also coincided with proactive ‘Workplace Wellness’ initiatives to retain talent and promote employee health and productivity. 3. Adoption of BOHS (Basic Occupational Health Services) by Indian Association of Occupational Health since 2008 leading to widespread awareness and advocacy among stakeholders. Discussion and Conclusion The specialty of OH has transitioned from welfare and statutory requirements to support productivity and ensure longer workability of employees. However, India still faces challenges such as lack of awareness and enforcement in the small and medium enterprises, Capacity building in occupational health and lack of occupational health data. Major evolution is now expected with imminent changes in legislation and national policy on OSH covering non-hazardous industries and workplaces in the ambit of law.