Barriers, drivers and impact of a simplified occupational safety and health management system in micro and small enterprises

Abstract

Micro and Small enterprises (MiSEs) are the most widespread kinds of company present in the world. As far as these companies’ management structures are concerned, huge variety and fragmentation seem to be critical factors in the effective and efficient implementation of a standard (e.g., BS OHSAS 18001, now ISO 45001) occupational safety and health management system (OHSMS), together with a systematic lack of resources (both economic and in terms of available man-hours). This research identifies and discusses the barriers to and drivers of the implementation of a OSHMS and its impact on MiSEs through a multistep research methodology consisting of: (1) a review of the existent literature; (2) a survey; (3) a dialogue workshop; and (4) follow-up interviews. The results are reported and discussed, so as to underline critical aspects linked to OSHMS implementation, together with practical suggestions aiming at supporting such companies in their implementation process.