The 2024 edition of India’s premier Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Expo and Conference, organized by Informa Markets in India, opened at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai. Running from November 21 to 23, the three-day event brings together global safety experts, industry leaders, and innovators to address critical challenges and explore solutions in workplace safety and health.
With India’s OSH sector projected to grow significantly, reaching USD 17.86 billion by 2030 at a CAGR of 11.1%, and the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) market expected to expand from USD 849.8 million in 2023 to USD 1.47 billion by 2032, the expo underscores the industry’s rapid evolution. The event was inaugurated by key dignitaries, including Mr Ram Bhagirathibai Digambarrao Dahiphale, Additional Director, Directorate of Industrial Safety & Health, Maharashtra, alongside Mr Vipin Venu Varakoth, Deputy Director – Air Safety, Airports Authority of India, and other notable personalities from government and industry.
OSH India 2024 features over 250 brands such as 3M India, Karam Safety, Udyogi International, Dupont, and Woodland, showcasing cutting-edge safety products and technologies. The conference track, hosting more than 55 speakers, is expected to attract over 7,000 visitors, solidifying its status as a critical platform for advancing occupational safety standards.
Ram Bhagirathibai Digambarrao Dahiphale, Additional Director of the Directorate of Industrial Safety & Health, Maharashtra, emphasized that safety is a cornerstone of both daily life and industrial operations. He highlighted the importance of leveraging advanced technology in personal protective equipment (PPE) to enhance workplace safety while underscoring the critical need for proper application and usage. According to Mr. Dahiphale, the cost of implementing preventive measures and investing in safety infrastructure is significantly lower than the consequences of workplace accidents.
Speaking on the integration of safety into organizational values, Sanjeev Raina, Executive Director – Corp HSSE at Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd., stressed that safety should be more than a priority—it must be an ingrained core value. He lauded platforms like OSH India for fostering discussions that drive innovation, build awareness, and create a culture where safety is universally respected and implemented. Mr. Raina pointed out that a focus on safety not only ensures compliance but also contributes to sustainability and long-term business success.
Mahesh Kudav, President of the Safety Appliances Manufacturers Association, shared an optimistic outlook for India’s safety appliance market, predicting it could reach USD 1 billion within the next five years. He attributed this growth potential to improved compliance, stringent quality control measures, and strengthened trade networks. Meanwhile, Avinash Misar, Chairman of the Indian Technical Textiles Association, highlighted the vital role of technical textiles in transforming workplace safety. Mr. Misar stressed the need for collaborative efforts from stakeholders and authorities to establish rigorous safety standards, particularly for MSMEs, ensuring inclusivity and robust implementation across industries.
OSH India continues to serve as a dynamic platform for promoting safety innovations, raising awareness, and driving action toward achieving zero-accident workplaces. The event not only highlights technological advancements but also fosters critical conversations on compliance, sustainability, and the future of workplace safety.
