OCCUPATIONAL INCIDENTS AND THE ROLE OF DATASHEETS IN WORKFORCE SAFETY AND RISK MANAGEMENT IN DEVELOPING NATIONS: A THEMATIC REVIEW

Abstract

Underreporting of workplace incidents is still a major problem in many developing countries, especially in blue-collar industries where safety and risk management deficiencies are still present. By raising safety standards, strengthening risk mitigation techniques, and promoting openness, occupational datasheets provide an organized method of resolving these shortcomings. In order to monitor workplace dangers, evaluate employee capacities, and direct focused actions, this review examines the function of standardized occupational datasheets. It finds important obstacles and chances to use data-driven insights to enhance safety procedures, rehabilitation techniques, and policy creation by examining the body of literature already available on occupational health and safety standards. The findings reveal that while datasheets significantly improve hazard identification and compliance, their adoption is hindered by limited digital infrastructure, lack of training, and resistance to change in traditional industries. Case studies highlight that firms utilizing structured safety documentation experience a measurable decline in workplace accidents and enhanced emergency response preparedness. To bridge the gap between developing countries and international workforce safety norms, the assessment also emphasises how important it is to connect incident reporting systems with best practices from throughout the world.

Keywords: Underreporting, datasheets, safety, risk management, developing nations