Occupational Health Risks and Industrial Safety in Karachi: A Public Health Perspective

Abstract (Description) Occupational health and safety remain critical public health concerns in rapidly industrializing urban centers such as Karachi. Workers in manufacturing, construction, and service sectors are frequently exposed to physical, chemical, biological, and ergonomic hazards that can lead to acute injuries and chronic diseases. Despite regulatory frameworks, gaps persist in workplace safety implementation, monitoring, and reporting systems in Pakistan. This concept paper explores occupational health risks in industrial settings and examines their implications for public health systems. It proposes a framework for integrating occupational health surveillance with public health monitoring systems to improve worker safety and disease prevention. The paper highlights key risk factors, identifies systemic challenges, and suggests policy and practice interventions to strengthen occupational health systems in Karachi. The proposed framework aims to support evidence-based decision-making, improve workplace safety compliance, and contribute to national public health strategies. Prof. Dr. Akhlas Ahmed 0009-0007-8130-8654