Health and safety of medical personnel in war conditions: a systemic approach based on ISO 45001

Abstract

The aim. To substantiate the necessity of implementing a systemic approach to occupational health and safety for healthcare workers during wartime based on the ISO 45001 standard and to develop practical tools for mitigating occupational risks in extreme environments. Materials and methods. Statistical data from the Ministry of Health of Ukraine, KSE Institute reports on infrastructure damage, and research findings on injuries and burnout among medical personnel were analyzed. Methods of SWOT analysis, systems analysis, and adaptation of international safety standards to martial law conditions were applied. Results. A critical increase in «hidden» injuries and specific threats was identified: biological contamination stress, ergonomic disorders when working in shelters, and secondary traumatization. It was established that the level of teamwork in hospitals dropped from 82% to 60%. A «hygienic minimum» algorithm was developed for resource-scarce conditions, prioritizing the use of alcohol-based antiseptics and autonomous lighting. A «Healthcare Worker Safety and Hygiene Checklist» was created, adapted to ISO 45001:2018 standards, which allows for automated safety control in stressful situations and formalizes psychological support. Conclusions. Implementing a risk-oriented approach according to the ISO 45001 standard transforms formal labor protection into a living protection system. The use of adapted checklists minimizes the cognitive load on personnel, promotes the prevention of professional burnout, and ensures sustainable professionalism in the medical sector as an element of national security.