Labour inspectorates and prevention services enhancing occupational safety and health compliance

Key findings

• Digitalisation and data-driven targeting are maximising the effectiveness of inspections as all five countries face challenges related to inspector-to-workforce ratios and limited OSH resources.
• Enforcement is shifting from a purely “command and control” model toward supportive, promotional approaches that reflect the realities of different enterprises.
• Strong collaborative networks are essential ─ no single institution can tackle OSH challenges alone, especially when reaching SMEs and vulnerable workers.
• Remote and digital support approaches and tools, from video consultations to AI chatbots, have become a permanent part of OSH systems.
• Sustainable OSH improvements depend on building internal capabilities among employers and workers through strategies tailored to different contexts and target groups.

Implications for policymakers and practitioners

• Strategies must be flexible and tailored to different contexts ─ there is no one size fits all solution.
• A portfolio approach is essential, combining multiple strategies.
• There are still significant gaps in evidence-based design, monitoring and evaluation of interventions.
• Despite advances in technology, human expertise, judgement and relationships remain crucial.
• Final message: By working together and combining digital innovation with human insight, we can strengthen OSH systems and create safer, healthier workplaces across Europe.