Occupational safety and health for older workers : a European policy perspective

Teoh, K. and Leka, S. (2025) Occupational safety and health for older workers : a European policy perspective. In: Research Handbook on Older Workers and Occupational Health and Safety :. Edward Elgar Publishing Ltd., pp. 14-32. ISBN 9781035330430

Abstract

The chapter examines European Union (EU) policies and national legislation on occupational safety and health (OSH) for older workers. It highlights demographic changes, rising employment rates among older workers, and related challenges such as pension pressures and workplace adjustments. Key OSH risks include health concerns, discrimination, and the impact of digitalisation. The chapter reviews EU directives, including Directive 89/391/EEC on workplace safety and Directive 2000/78/EC on equal treatment, alongside policies such as the European Pillar of Social Rights and the EU Strategic Framework on Health and Safety at Work 2021–2027. It discusses the roles of EU-OSHA and Eurofound in promoting healthy workplaces and notes a lack of evaluation on policy effectiveness. While employment rates for older workers have improved, unhealthy conditions and psychosocial risks persist. The chapter calls for a life-course approach, participatory design, and flexible work policies, stressing the need for targeted OSH strategies and supportive environments.