Towards the year 2049: The next 25 years of occupational health and safety research.

Abstract

Objective: In this discussion paper, we close our 2024 series reflecting on the successes, failures, and promises of occupational health and safety research in celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment & Health (SJWEH). This paper aims to elaborate on the future of our research field.

Methods: We conducted a narrative review of lessons learned in the series, examining insights gained and key takeaways. Additionally, we explored the current and anticipated agendas of major institutions, including the World Health Organization and the European Union, on occupational health and safety, as well as potential developments in the academic publishing industry.

Results: Occupational health and safety research has significantly evolved over the last 50 years, emphasizing longitudinal study designs, enriching observational data with registry-based information, and expanding the scope of hazardous determinants impacting workers` health. Novel statistical approaches have further enabled researchers to address complex associations, such as mediation effects, and to strengthen causal inference in observational studies. At the same time, the publishing business is changing rapidly, with artificial intelligence poised to reshape both research practices and the landscape of academic publishing.

Conclusion: In the changing landscape of research and academic publishing, our goal is for SJWEH to continue to be a leading source of high-quality research dedicated to protecting and improving workers' health. We are curious and excited to see where all these current and anticipated changes will lead in the years to come.