ANALYSIS OF THE HIERARCHICAL LEVELS OF OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY IN ORGANIZATIONS

Abstract

Purpose. This study aims to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the interrelation between the state, corporate, and individual levels of occupational safety within organizations. Methods. A systems analysis approach was employed to determine the role of the state in establishing occupational safety requirements and enforcement mechanisms, which serve as a driving force for actions at both the corporate and individual levels. Results. The study presents a thorough examination of the interdependencies between the state, corporate, and individual levels of occupational safety management. It is demonstrated that the effectiveness of an occupational health and safety (OHS) management system can be achieved only through the synergistic interaction of these three levels. This synergy is reflected in the revision and consolidation of regulatory frameworks at the state level, including the removal of outdated and contradictory norms and alignment with modern risk-oriented approaches; the demonstration of leadership, commitment to safety, and allocation of necessary resources to foster a culture of safety at the corporate level; and the promotion of proactive employee engagement in all safety-related matters at the individual level. The study identifies key enabling factors for a robust OHS management system, such as harmonization with EU regulations, the proliferation of ISO 45001:2018 standards, and ongoing technological development. The transition from a compliance-driven model of occupational safety to a dynamic, ISO 45001-integrated system represents not merely a technical update, but a fundamental shift in corporate safety philosophy. It is shown that employee decisions and behavior are influenced by the level of safety culture, which must ensure the balanced development of five key components: informed culture, reporting culture, just culture, flexible culture, and learning culture. Scientific Novelty. The novelty of this research lies in its systemic approach to occupational safety, which is conceptualized not as a collection of isolated regulations, but as an interrelated hierarchy encompassing state, corporate, and individual levels. This perspective substantiates the conclusion that only coordinated and coherent actions across all three levels can ensure an effective OHS management system. Practical Value. The practical significance of the study is reflected in the development of recommendations for enhancing the effectiveness of the entire occupational safety hierarchy. These recommendations support a shift toward risk-based supervision, moving away from formal inspection checklists to focus on evaluating the functional performance of safety management systems.