Managing Occupational Risk in the Arts and Creative Industries

Abstract

There has been little recognition of the fact that the arts and creative industries operate in a different environment and context to traditional industries, and this has resulted in the application of a generic, or “one size fits all”, framework of OHS systems in creative enterprises. Certain challenges arise from this strategy, mainly because the OHS systems currently used were principally designed for twentieth century or traditional industries.

This article questions the appropriateness of applying a conventional OHS model in creative practice, and considers what framework will best provide for the wellbeing of creative workers and the sustainability of creative business in the twenty-first century. Viewed through the prism of occupational risk management, this article is timely as it recognises the increasing importance of the creative economy in Australia, some current health and industrial challenges faced by creative workers, and the increasing role played by higher education in preparing arts practitioners for professional life.