The 11th edition of OSH India, India's premier occupational safety and health (OSH) expo and conference, organised by Informa Markets in India, commenced at the Bombay Exhibition Centre in Mumbai. The three-day event, held from November 23-25, 2023, offered a platform for the industry to converge, innovate, and address the challenges and opportunities in the industrial safety and health sector.

As India's occupational safety and health (OSH) market anticipates growth, projected to reach US$ 17.86 billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 11.1%.

The inaugural ceremony of OSH India 2023 saw the presence of Devidas B. Gore, Director, DISH Maharashtra; Dr. Ajit Salvi, Dy. Chief Engineer-Sewerage Operations, BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation; Sanjay Kumar, Head-Safety & Quality, Mumbai Metro One Pvt. Ltd.; V. Ramgude, Chief Engineer Design, PWD, Govt. of Maharashtra and Hemant Sapra, President, Safety Appliances Manufacturers’ Association and Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director, Informa Markets in India.

OSH India 2023 served as a comprehensive platform for showcasing innovations and solutions in workplace safety and health. Over 300 brands, including prominent players like Liberty, Udyogi, Allen Cooper, PERF, Idos, mtandt, BATA, Nebosh, Venus, DPL, and Intech Safety, are exhibiting their latest products, services, and technologies. The expo also featured a dedicated conference track with over 50 speakers and 8000 trade visitors. The diverse participation makes it a significant gathering in the realm of occupational safety and health.

The event was supported by prominent associations, including the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF), Indian Technical Textile Association (ITTA), safety Appliances Manufacturers Association (SAMA), WSHAsia, enhancing its credibility and industry support reflecting a collaborative approach to advancing workplace and safety.

 Sanjay Kumar, Head- Safety & Quality, Mumbai Metro One Pvt. Ltd. said, “Over the past two decades, safety has evolved into a critical focus, requiring commitment from top management to instill a pervasive safety culture. Active worker participation and understanding of sector-specific challenges are crucial. Collaboration between safety product manufacturers and organizations is essential to meet specific safety needs economically. The ultimate goal is to enhance global safety cultures, emphasizing safety in all aspects of life. Rigorous safety training for all workers ensures standardized safety protocols. Notably, the success of these efforts is evident in the absence of accidents since the inception of Metro services in 2014. At OSH India 2023, our focus remains on urging organizations to uphold and advance safety standards.”

Talking about indispensable elements in the realm of manufacturing, Devidas B. Gore, Director, DISH Maharashtra said, "In the manufacturing sector, the responsibility for the welfare of workers lies with factory owners. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) stands as a vital safeguard, and over the past 11 years, Informa Markets in India has played a pivotal role in championing PPE initiatives. OSH India 2023 exhibition offers a diverse range of products and solutions which are integral to accident prevention and ensuring the well-being of the workforce."

Highlighting the enduring significance of Occupational Safety and Health (OSH), Dr. Ajit Salvi, Dy. Chief Engineer-Sewerage Operations, Brihan Mumbai Municipal Corporation underscored that more than 2.78 billion employees face annual occupational issues. OSH's plays a critical role in the ongoing fourth industrial revolution and is imperative to tackle forthcoming challenges. The reluctance of workers to use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in extreme conditions due to discomfort, stresses the need to address climate-related OSH challenges. It's crucial to take preventative actions, proactive measures, and holistic strategies like stress reduction, balanced meals, and financial assessments. Over the course of the three days at OSH India 2023, the assembly of experts is poised to generate innovative solutions to address the evolving challenges in Occupational Safety and Health (OSH).”

Mannan Bansal, Director, Liberty Group said, "In our pursuit of excellence, Liberty Group delivers globally competitive products, surpassing Indian norms. We educate local industries and serve MNCs with superior-quality products at competitive prices. At OSH India, our focus on innovation is evident through additions like file and rubber technology. Targeting a 25-30% annual revenue increase, our lightweight sole and revolutionary products gain traction, especially among MNCs. OSH India serves as a vital platform for interaction, learning, and showcasing successes. Standout products, including Vijeta Shakti and innovative popcorn technology in our warrior line, exemplify our dedication to innovation, quality, and market responsiveness."

Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director, Informa Markets in India said, "Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) are indispensable for industries, ensuring workforce safety and indirectly enhancing a nation's economic resilience. OSH India serves as a hub for stakeholders to explore cutting-edge solutions, engage with global experts, and foster awareness and best practices. India's market for industrial safety equipment has grown to be worth over USD 841 million, driven by demands from a variety of industries, stricter laws, and an improved awareness of occupational safety.”