Is There a Link between Workplace Health and Safety and Firm Performance and Productivity?

Research on the connection between occupational health and safety (OHS) and increasing employee productivity and performance has become topical as a result of increased interest in identifying ways to improve 'performance' in the workplace. Occupational health and safety academics have also recognised the social benefits of introducing improved health and safety standards. However, there is debate as to whether or not introducing improvements can actually increase measurable economic benefits. While most of the research has been located overseas, there is, unfortunately, little empirical New Zealand-based research in this area. Recently efforts have been made by the New Zealand Government and in particular the Department of Labour to remedy this situation and to fund research that examines the possible links between OHS interventions and firm performance and productivity as well as understand why firms implemented OHS practices within the New Zealand context. As part of this research, a comprehensive literature review on the topic was undertaken and it is this review that is the focus of the paper.