What is meant by "occupational safety"?

Occupational safety refers specifically to the measures and practices implemented to protect the health and safety of employees in the workplace. This encompasses a wide range of activities, including identifying hazards, assessing risks, and taking steps to eliminate or control those risks to ensure a safe work environment. The ultimate goal of occupational safety is to prevent accidents, injuries, and illnesses related to work, allowing employees to perform their duties without endangering themselves or their colleagues.

The other options do not relate to the fundamental principles of occupational safety. Minimizing social interactions may pertain to workplace relationships but does not address safety or health concerns. Maintaining workplace aesthetics connects more to the visual appeal and organization of the workplace rather than the protection of employee well-being. Managing employee work schedules is primarily related to workforce management and efficiency, not directly related to health and safety measures in the workplace. Thus, the core concept of protecting employees' safety and health embodies the essence of occupational safety, making it the correct choice.