Balancing Growth and Safety: Rethinking Occupational Health and Safety Management in Indonesia’s Chemical Industry

Department of Automotive Industrial Engineering, Politeknik STMI Jakarta, Jl. Letjend Suprapto No. 26, Jakarta Pusat 10510, Indonesia

^* Corresponding author: bhandoko@stmi.ac.id

Abstract

Occupational accidents in the chemical industry not only result in considerable economic losses but also have profound implications for societal well-being, social cohesion, and national economic stability. These challenges are frequently linked to the insufficient implementation of effective Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) management systems. As Indonesia continues to experience rapid expansion in its chemical sector an industry that serves as a vital pillar of its national economy. However, the sector’s inherently high-risk nature demands a proactive and robust approach to OHS. This study aims to bridge that gap by offering strategic insights into sustainable development within Indonesia’s chemical industry, with a particular focus on occupational safety and chemical risk management. Furthermore, it introduces an integrated governance framework aligned with international best practices and global standards, designed to enhance policy coherence and implementation effectiveness. Statistical analysis conducted as part of this study highlights two key factors influencing the performance of the chemical industry: a strong orientation toward growth and a commitment to regulatory compliance. These findings emphasize the importance of aligning industrial ambition with robust safety and compliance measures to foster responsible and sustainable progress.