The Role of Local Wisdom as Social Capital in Strengthening Occupational Health and Safety Culture in the Mining Industry

Abstract

ABSTRACT

The mining industry is a sector with a high level of occupational safety and health (OHS) risks, making strengthening an OHS culture a crucial aspect in preventing workplace accidents. To date, efforts to strengthen an OHS culture have tended to focus on technical and regulatory approaches, while the socio-cultural dimensions of workers have not been fully optimized. This study aims to examine the role of local wisdom as social capital in strengthening an OHS culture in the mining industry. The study used a qualitative approach with a case study design. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, field observations, and documentation studies with mine workers, field supervisors, OHS officers, management, and purposively selected local community leaders. Data analysis was conducted thematically to identify patterns, meanings, and social dynamics related to local wisdom and OHS practices. The results show that local wisdom serves as a foundation of values ??in shaping occupational safety awareness, strengthening mutual reminder practices, and building trust, social networks, and shared norms that support an OHS culture. However, the integration of local wisdom into the formal OHS system still faces challenges, particularly related to production pressures and the dominance of top-down approaches. This study concludes that local wisdom as social capital has strategic potential in strengthening a more contextual, participatory, and sustainable occupational safety and health culture in the mining industry.

Keywords: local wisdom; social capital; occupational safety and health culture; mining industry