Agile Methodologies in Occupational Health and Safety: Scrum, Kanban and Design Thinking for Adaptive Safety Management

Resumen

Agile methodologies particularly Scrum, Kanban, and Design Thinking, have expanded beyond software engineering and are increasingly discussed as management approaches for occupational health and safety (OHS). These approaches emphasize adaptability, iterative learning, and collaborative problem solving, which are critical in complex and dynamic work environments. This reflection article examines how agile frameworks may contribute to the evolution of conventional OHS management from predominantly compliance driven models toward more adaptive, participatory, and innovation-oriented practices. Based on a conceptual analysis of the literature, the paper discusses the potential of agile methodologies to strengthen organizational safety culture, enhance risk management processes, and accelerate the development of worker centered safety solutions. It also addresses barriers to implementation, including regulatory constraints, organizational resistance, and limited training in agile thinking among OHS professionals. The article argues that integrating agile principles into OHS management systems may support proactive prevention, stakeholder engagement, and continuous improvement in safety outcomes.