The paradox of prevention

how the social doctrine of the Church illuminates obstacles to occupational health and safety

Abstract

Despite existing regulations, occupational accidents and illnesses continue to rise in Brazil, highlighting a complex social problem. Key barriers include deficient oversight, the isolation between employers and workers, and the gap between knowledge and effective safety practices. The Social Doctrine of the Church (SDC) offers a path forward, criticizing the exclusive focus on financial compensation (“economism”) and advocating for human dignity as a priority. The SDC proposes that universalizing health and safety at work requires more than just laws: it demands a culture of prevention, solidarity, and social justice, where the worker’s holistic well-being is the central value.