Consequences

Abstract This chapter is about measuring the consequences of occupational health and safety (OHS) interventions. Consequences include changes in health states, as well as non-health values created and resources saved. Improvements in health or reductions in its rate of deterioration, are the most important outcome of interest in OHS. Health is of value to individuals for several reasons; it is of value for its own sake and also because it makes other things possible. Good health facilitates the fulfilment of social roles, such as working, domestic responsibilities, parenting, undertaking community service, and enjoying leisure. Reductions in work disability and their related productivity implications are central to OHS interventions. These are attained through interventions directed at primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention (see Box 11.1 for definitions). Other important values created and resources saved due to OHS interventions include reduced claims administration expenses, reduced health care expenditures and reduced out-of-pocket expenses for workers.