OSH India 2024 opens in Mumbai with groundbreaking discussions on workplace safety and health innovations

India’s leading occupational safety and health (OSH) expo and conference, hosted by Informa Markets in India, commenced at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai. Scheduled from November 21st to 23rd, 2024, this three-day event gathers international safety experts, industry leaders to exchange insights, foster innovation, and tackle pressing issues in the OSH landscape. With India’s OSH sector set to expand rapidly, reaching around USD 17.86 billion by 2030 at a CAGR of 11.1%, the personal protective equipment (PPE) market is also on a robust growth path, expected to increase from USD 849.8 million in 2023 to USD 1,473 million by 2032, with a CAGR of 6.3%.

The inauguration of OSH India 2024 was marked by the presence of distinguished dignitaries, with the Guest of Honour - Ram Bhagirathibai Digambarrao Dahiphale, Additional Director, Directorate of Industrial Safety & Health, Government of Maharashtra; Special Guest- Vipin Venu Varakoth, Dy. Director - Air Safety, Airport Authority of India and other esteemed personalities including Dr. Ajit Salvi, Director, Regional Centre for Urban & Environmental Studies, All India Institute of Local Self-Government, Mumbai; G. S. Baveja, President, Mumbai Chapter, National Federation of Engineers for Electrical Safety, India; Avinash Misar, Chairman, Indian Technical Textiles Association; Mahesh Kudav, President, Safety Appliances Manufacturers Association; Sanjeev Raina, Executive Director – Corp HSSE, Bharat Petroleum Corporation; Bhushan Mankame, Regional Director of National Federation of Engineers for Electrical Safety; Pankaj Jain, Sr. Group Director & Digital Head, Informa Markets in India and Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director, Informa Markets in India.

OSH India 2024 stands as a premier platform for presenting innovations and solutions in workplace safety and health. This year's edition featured participation from over 250 brands, including industry leaders like 3M India, Karam Safety, Udyogi International, Rahman Industries (PERF), Bisonlife India, Aktion Safety, Dupont and Woodland (Aero Club), showcasing their latest products, services, and technologies. The event also included a focused conference track, bringing together more than 55 speakers and expected to attract over 7,000 trade visitors. This diverse participation highlighted its significance as a key gathering for advancing occupational safety and health standards.

Ram Bhagirathibai Digambarrao Dahiphale, Additional Director, Directorate of Industrial Safety & Health, Government of Maharashtra, said, “Safety is an essential part of human life, extending from the workplace to the home, and is integral to ensuring well-being in every environment. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) has evolved with the times, incorporating cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence to provide advanced protection. However, the fundamental need for the right PPE for the right person at the right job remains critical. In today's industrial landscape, ensuring the safety of all workers, including those employed through contractors, is paramount. Investing in the implementation of comprehensive safety measures and proper PPE is far more cost-effective than addressing the aftermath of accidents."

"OSH India plays a vital role in spreading awareness, fostering innovation, and inspiring action toward achieving the ultimate goal of zero accidents in industries. It is a collective effort where every individual’s contribution matters to create a safer, more sustainable future."

Sanjeev Raina, Executive Director – Corp HSSE, Bharat Petroleum Corporation, said, “Safety is not just a priority—it is a core value that must be ingrained into the DNA of every individual and organization. While priorities may shift over time, values remain constant, and safety should always be at the forefront. It is imperative to understand that safety is not merely about compliance or responsibility; it is about accountability and sustainability. Embracing safety as an integral part of business operations ensures long-term success, as unsafe practices can jeopardize not only individual well-being but the very foundation of business and the ecosystem it operates in. Leveraging technology, such as AI and state-of-the-art innovations, enhances safety measures, making them more effective."

Mahesh Kudav, President, Safety Appliances Manufacturers Association (SAMA), said, “The global safety appliance industry stands at an estimated USD 8 billion, while the Indian market currently represents a quarter of a billion dollars. However, with significant growth potential, India’s market is projected to reach USD 1 billion within the next five years, reflecting an annual growth rate of approximately 11-15%. Key challenges include a lack of networking platforms that connect manufacturers, suppliers, trade partners, and end-users effectively."

Speaking on the 12th edition of OSH India in Mumbai, Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director, Informa Markets in India said, “With India's workforce projected to reach 643.3 million in 2024, reflecting a significant 6% growth, the emphasis on occupational safety has never been more critical. This demographic shift not only signals economic progress but also highlights the responsibility to mitigate workplace risks and create safe working environments. OSH India has become an indispensable platform for advancing safety culture in India by showcasing innovative solutions, enabling knowledge exchange, and fostering collaboration among key stakeholders. As the country navigates rapid industrialisation and economic expansion, prioritising workforce safety is not just an ethical obligation but a strategic imperative for long-term resilience and sustainable growth.”

The event garnered strong backing from key industry associations, including the All-India Association of Industries (AIAI), Safety Appliances Manufacturers Association (SAMA), Indian Technical Textiles Association (ITTA), International Power Access Federation (IPAF), World of Safety & Health Asia (WSHASIA), National Federation of Engineers for Electrical Safety (NFE), Thane Belapur Industrial Association (TBIA), Taloja Industries Association (TIA), Additional Ambernath Manufacturers Association (AAMA), Indian Association of Occupational Health (IAOH), and the Mutual Aid Response Group (MARG). This collaboration reflects a unified effort to elevate workplace safety standards and foster a culture of well-being.