- At OSH India 2024, more than 1000 items from 250 manufacturers will be on display, highlighting the most recent advancements in occupational safety and health.
- By 2030, the Indian occupational safety market is projected to grow to a value of USD 17.86 billion. demonstrating significant growth potential
- Key discussions included risk assessment on construction sites, global safety challenges, and emerging technologies in workplace safety
Mumbai, November 21, 2024: Today, the Bombay Exhibition Centre in Mumbai held India’s premier occupational safety and health (OSH) expo and conference, organised by Informa Markets in India. This three-day event, which is set for November 21–23, 2024, brings together worldwide leaders in the industry and safety specialists to share knowledge, encourage creativity, and address urgent problems in the OSH environment. In addition to the OSH sector in India, which is predicted to develop at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.1% to reach around USD 17.86 billion by 2030, the personal protective equipment (PPE) market is also forecast to grow at a strong rate, rising from USD 849.8 million in 2023 to USD 1,473 million by 2032 at a CAGR of 6.3%.
The inauguration of OSH India 2024 was marked by the presence of distinguished dignitaries, with the Guest of Honour – Mr. Ram Bhagirathibai Digambarrao Dahiphale, Additional Director, Directorate of Industrial Safety & Health, Government of Maharashtra; Special Guest- Mr. 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; Shri G. S. Baveja, President, Mumbai Chapter, National Federation of Engineers for Electrical Safety, India; Shri Avinash Misar, Chairman, Indian Technical Textiles Association; Shri Mahesh Kudav, President, Safety Appliances Manufacturers Association; Shri Sanjeev Raina, Executive Director – Corp HSSE, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd; Mr. Bhushan Mankame, Regional Director of National Federation of Engineers for Electrical Safety; Mr. Pankaj Jain, Sr. Group Director & Digital Head, Informa Markets in India and Mr. Yogesh Mudras, Managing
Director, Informa Markets in India.
OSH India 2024 is a renowned venue for showcasing workplace safety and health technologies and solutions. More than 250 firms participated at this year’s event, including prominent players in the sector including 3M India, Karam Safety, Udyogi International, Rahman Industries (PERF), Bisonlife India, Aktion Safety, Dupont, and Woodland (Aero Club), exhibiting their most recent systems, goods, and services. With over 55 speakers and an anticipated 7,000 trade attendees, the event also featured a dedicated conference track. This varied attendance demonstrated its importance as a pivotal event for raising standards for workplace safety and health.
“Safety is an essential part of human life, extending from the workplace to the home, and is integral to ensuring well-being in every situation,” stated Mr. Ram Bhagirathibai Digambarrao Dahiphale, Additional Director, Directorate of Industrial Safety & Health, Government of Maharashtra. surroundings. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) has evolved with the times, incorporating cutting- edge technologies like artificial intelligence to provide advanced protection. Nonetheless, it is still crucial to have the appropriate PPE for the right individual in the correct profession. 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.” “
Shri Sanjeev Raina, Executive Director – Corp HSSE, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd , 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 fundamental basis of business and the environment in which it functions. Leveraging technology, such as AI and state-of-the-art innovations, enhances safety measures, making them more effective. Platforms like OSH India play a vital role in initiating dialogues, which lead to opportunities, harmony, and a safer ecosystem. This provides a space to share insights, exchange ideas, and collectively work towards a culture where safety is a universal value.”
Shri 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. Initiatives like OSH India provide much-needed opportunities for showcasing products, fostering trade connections, and promoting safety awareness. Additionally, the enforcement of stringent quality control orders (QCOs), adherence to ISO standards, and the establishment of advanced testing facilities on par with
international agencies could accelerate the domestic production of high-quality safety products.
With the shift in global trade dynamics and diminished reliance on imports from specific regions, India has a unique opportunity to strengthen its position as a reliable exporter of safety appliances. The evolving domestic manufacturing landscape, coupled with India’s political and economic strategies, positions the country to fill gaps in international markets, particularly in regions like the United States. While currently modest, the export sector is poised for expansion as manufacturers achieve global quality benchmarks and build enduring supply relationships.” Shri Avinash Misar, Chairman, Indian Technical Textiles Association, said “Technical textiles have emerged as a pivotal solution in enhancing occupational safety and health, offering innovative and technologically advanced applications across industries. With a robust domestic market valued at around USD 20 billion and growing, India stands at the forefront of this sector. However, the pressing
need for stricter compliance and effective implementation of safety standards remains critical. While large industries prioritize safety as a core agenda, MSMEs—employing the largest workforce in India—face challenges in maintaining focus amidst operational demands. A unified push from both authorities and industry stakeholders can bridge these gaps, ensuring safety becomes an uncompromised priority across all scales of operations.”
Mr. Vipin Venu Varakoth, Deputy Director of Air Safety, Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), said “Safety is not merely an option but a necessity and a fundamental commitment. Years of analyzing critical incidents highlight the importance of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), comprehensive training programs, and fostering a proactive reporting culture to enhance workplace safety. Effective leadership, coupled with a non-punitive approach to incident reporting, forms the backbone of a robust safety framework. Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) must remain a priority for regulators, acknowledging the inevitability of workplace hazards across industries such as aviation, manufacturing, emergency services, education, and healthcare. By leveraging advanced PPE, state-of-the-art safety tools, and continuous training, risks can be mitigated to ensure every worker returns home safely.” Mr. Anirban Pal, Business Head, Bison Life, said “The Indian safety industry is experiencing a transformative phase, driven by increased awareness and innovative solutions. Platforms like OSH India provide an essential space for showcasing products, networking with industry leaders, and fostering safety awareness. The introduction of sustainable safety products, such as biodegradable earplugs and gloves made from recycled plastic bottles, marks a significant shift towards eco-friendly practices. Additionally, initiatives like lithium battery recycling highlight the industry’s commitment
to addressing environmental challenges. With safety evolving as a priority across sectors, spurred by MNC safety norms and government initiatives, the industry holds immense potential for growth. However, raising awareness about the purpose and proper usage of safety equipment remains crucial. Innovative campaigns and a focus on sustainability can bridge these gaps, making safety an integral part of India’s industrial landscape.”
Mr. Hemant Sapra, President Global Sales and Marketing, Karam said “The safety and equipment industry in India is experiencing significant growth, expanding at an impressive rate of 20% year-on- year, compared to a global CAGR of 10%. Currently valued at $5.6 billion globally, the industry is expected to exceed USD 11 billion by 2030. Platforms like OSH India play a pivotal role in driving this momentum, offering opportunities to introduce innovative products and foster collaboration. With consistent participation since its inception, we are committed to advancing safety standards and contributing to the industry’s growth trajectory.” Speaking on the 12 th edition of OSH India in Mumbai, Mr 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.”
Dr. Ajit Salvi, Director, Regional Centre for Urban & Environmental Studies, All India Institute of Local Self-Government, Mumbai, said “Creating a winning Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) culture is not just a compliance requirement, but a vital investment in our people and our nation’s future. By prioritizing safety, we enhance employee morale, operational efficiency, and organizational reputation. Collective efforts to leverage technology and expertise can create a work environment where every individual performs duties securely and returns home safely. Initiatives like OSH India, position India as a global leader in safety excellence, aligning with international standards. Emphasizing the urgent need for electrical safety reforms, Mr. Bhushan Mankame, Regional Director of National Federation of Engineers for Electrical Safety said, “With 13,000 electrocutions annually and frequent industrial accidents, India’s electrical safety crisis demands collective action. NFE, National Federation of Engineers’ 360-degree approach for Electrical Safety, with 1,800
electrical engineers, is working tirelessly to bridge gaps in workforce sensitization, standards implementation, and professional accreditation, collaborating with BIS and CEA (Bureau of Indian Standards and Central Electricity Authority) to make Bharat electrically safe.” 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. The first day of OSH India 2024 delved into critical discussions focused on enhancing workplace safety and health.
Construction Site Logistics and Its Impact on Safety by Mr. Raaj Kumar Paul, Assistant Vice President & Head EHS (MSI-Mobility & Strategic Infrastructure) at Tata Projects. The focus shifted to the global perspective with Navigating Safety in a Dynamic World, led by Mr. Cameron S. Stokes, Vice- President of Industrial Sales at Lakeland Industries. Dr. Ajit Salvi, Director of the Regional Centre for Urban & Environmental Studies at the All India Institute of Local Self-Government, Mumbai, addressed the pressing issue of Occupational Health Hazards of Sewage Workers. The challenges of HSE in Data Centre Management were explored by Mr. Jagat Pandya, Head of HSE Data Center Business at Sterling and Wilson. The day culminated in a panel discussion on Emerging Technologies and Standards to Address Workplace Safety and Health Risks, moderated by Mr. Pravin L. Shinde, Safety, SHE & Sustainability Lead for India and Neighboring Markets at Roche.