PORTALJABAR, BANDUNG CITY - Occupational safety and health (K3) is not only about preventing accidents in the workplace, but also ensuring that every worker can carry out their activities in a healthy physical and mental condition.

This was discussed in the Sonata Talkshow “Safe Work, Comfortable Home: K3 for Healthy and Productive Workers” on Wednesday (26/8/2026) which presented Member of Commission IV of the Bandung City DPRD, Dr. dr. Agung Firmansyah Sumantri, Sp.PD., KHOM., MMRS., FINASIM, and Secretary of the Bandung City Manpower Office, Bariati Ratna Aju, SE., SH.

In the talk show, Agung explained that occupational health risks encompass a wide range. Occupational risks extend beyond accidents such as falls, being struck by falling objects, or being hit by machinery, but can also arise from various environmental conditions and work habits.

"When we talk about occupational health, the risks are actually very broad. So, occupational risks aren't just limited to on-the-job accidents, such as falls, being crushed, or being hit by machinery," Agung said.

He explained that one of the risk groups is the physical risk that can arise due to noise, temperatures that are too hot or cold, poor lighting, and exposure to radiation in certain types of work.

In addition, there are also chemical and biological risks, for example exposure to chemicals, smoke, metals, as well as bacteria, viruses, and biological agents in certain work environments.

Another risk often overlooked is ergonomics. According to Agung, improper working postures, prolonged sitting, lifting heavy objects, repetitive movements, and even non-ergonomic computer positions can trigger problems in the muscles, bones, back, neck, and shoulders.

"That's why you need to relax, so you shouldn't sit for too long," he explained. He advised workers to take the time to stand, walk, or stretch after sitting for long periods to prevent the body from being stuck in the same position.

Agung also highlighted the increasingly relevant psychosocial risks in the workplace, not just physical conditions. Excessive workloads, workplace pressure, conflict, and conditions that can trigger stress and burnout can impact workers' health.

According to him, workers facing heavy workloads shouldn't have to bear it all alone. Communicating with coworkers, sharing the load, and asking for help when needed are steps that can be taken to avoid increasing stress.

"The principle is, don't carry everything alone. Share the burden, share, and ask for help from others. That's better than carrying all the work yourself," Agung said.

Workers' health is ultimately closely linked to productivity and workplace safety. Physically healthy workers have better stamina and concentration. Conversely, lack of sleep, fatigue, chronic pain, and psychological stress can make someone more prone to losing concentration, making mistakes, and even increasing the risk of workplace accidents.

"So healthy workers are not only happier, but also more productive, safer, and have a lower risk of workplace accidents," he said.

The importance of worker health cannot be separated from the responsibility and role of companies in implementing OHS. According to Bariati Ratna Aju, although OHS oversight lies with the provincial government, the Bandung City Manpower Office continues to educate companies about the importance of implementing OHS in the workplace.

He explained that K3 protection already has a regulatory basis, including Law Number 1 of 1970 and Law Number 13 of 2003 concerning Manpower. These regulations govern the protection of workers' rights and the obligations of companies in implementing occupational safety and health measures.

"Companies must care about their employees. They can't just have workers without paying attention to their health," Bariati said.

According to Bariati, K3 implementation can be achieved through the provision of health care units for workers, occupational safety equipment or personal protective equipment (PPE), machine security, and safety equipment such as fire extinguishers to address fire risks. Companies also need to ensure that workers receive protection appropriate to the nature of their jobs.

In terms of worker protection, Bariati also emphasized the importance of companies enrolling their workers in the BPJS Ketenagakerjaan (Employment Social Security Agency). This membership provides protection, including work accident and death benefits, as well as other coverage according to available programs.

"That's why we always urge companies to please register their friends," he said.

Bariati also emphasized that occupational health and safety are a shared concern. Workers have the right to a safe and healthy work environment, while companies have a responsibility to provide the necessary protection.

With collaboration between workers, employers, and related parties, it is hoped that the implementation of K3 will not stop as a rule, but become part of the daily work culture.

(Bandung City Communications and Information Service/rka)