Selection and analysis of key occupational safety and health indicators: A case study in the foundry industry

Abstract

Selection of key performance indicators (KPI) in the field of occupational safety and health requires precise definition of measurable parameters which allow efficient monitoring of the level of employee protection and evaluation of the success of implemented preventive measures. In the foundry industry, which is characterized by high temperatures, use of heavy equipment, complex technological processes and the presence of hazardous and harmful materials, continuous monitoring of situation in the field of employee health protection is a significant basis for improving working conditions, reducing professional risks and increasing the level of employee safety and health. This paper presents the identification and analysis of key indicators of occupational safety and health through a case study conducted in a foundry in Serbia. Special attention was paid to the LTIFR (Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate), SR (Severity Rate) and AFR (Accident Frequency Rate) indicators, with the analysis of their values in the period 2018-2024, which allowed the quantitative assessment of workplace injury frequency and severity. The results indicate an increased level of professional risk in the observed foundry from the case study. The analysis established that the highest risk workplaces are connected with machine molding, grinding and final treatment of castings, while arms and eyes are the most frequently injured body parts. The obtained results emphasize the importance of preventive measures, education of employees, improvement of risk assessment, more consistent use of personal protective equipment and modernization of technological processes for the purpose of improving occupational safety and health.