Occupational Safety for Older Adult Workers: Global Trends,Risks,and Safety Interventions

Abstract

Background:

Older employees experience distinct occupational risks owing to age-related changes, making them more vulnerable to occupational injuries and disease. This study aimed to determine global factors influencing older adult safety to develop effective preventive interventions.

Methods:

A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Four scientific databases were searched for articles related to the safety of older adult workers published from January 2010 to November 2025. The Critical Appraisal Skills Program checklist was used to ensure methodological rigor and minimize bias.

Results:

Thirty-one studies across diverse occupational settings were included, representing more than 27 million workers, with specific analyses focusing on adults aged ≥60 years. Occupational safety risks varied by sector. Agricultural workers were primarily exposed to heat stress, heavy physical workloads, and chronic diseases. Factory workers commonly faced metabolic disorders, falls, and physically demanding tasks, while office workers were mainly affected by psychosocial stress, ergonomic strain, and high workload demands. Common determinants of occupational safety across sectors included age, sex, job insecurity, ergonomic challenges, chronic conditions, smoking, and environmental exposures such as heat and chemicals.

Conclusion:

Older workers face heterogeneous and sector-specific occupational safety risks, highlighting the need for age-sensitive workplace interventions. Targeted training, ergonomic modifications, and sector-specific safety regulations are essential to improving occupational safety and promoting healthy aging at work.

Application to Practice:

These findings support the development of tailored, age-sensitive occupational safety strategies, including ergonomic redesign, heat stress prevention, and flexible work arrangements, to enhance safety and well-being among aging workers.