Abstract
Relevance. The transition toward risk-oriented occupational safety systems requires modernizing social protection mechanisms for employees exposed to hazardous working conditions. In Kazakhstan, social guarantees are traditionally based on occupational classifications that do not fully reflect actual workplace risk exposure or economic sector characteristics. Objective. To develop and validate an integrated methodological approach for ranking occupations based on professional risk levels and economic activity characteristics. Materials and Methods. This study, conducted in 2024-2025, included an analysis of occupational risk assessment data from pilot enterprises, an evaluation of national labor statistics, and findings from a sociological survey of 312 respondents. An integrated ranking index was developed by calculating a sectoral coefficient reflecting economic activity characteristics. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 27.0. Results. Significant variability in occupational risk levels across economic sectors was identified. High and critical risk levels were predominantly observed in mining, metallurgical, and chemical industries, while lower risk levels were characteristic of service and administrative sectors. The proposed integrated ranking model demonstrated the ability to differentiate occupations with similar professional risk exposure by incorporating sector-specific economic indicators, thereby enabling a more precise distribution of social guarantees. Conclusions. The developed model establishes a scientifically justified relationship between occupational risk level and allocation of social guarantees. Implementing the proposed methodology may enhance the effectiveness of occupational safety regulation and support the transition toward a preventive, risk-oriented social protection system in Kazakhstan.