Sistemas de gestión de seguridad y salud en el trabajo: evolución, marco normativo y dimensión educativa en PYMES

Abstract

The study aimed to analyze occupational health and safety management systems (OHSMS), their background, current trends, and regulatory framework, highlighting their role in building a preventive culture and developing organizational competencies, with special attention to SMEs in Ecuador. A descriptive–analytical research with a qualitative–documentary approach was conducted, based on academic literature, international and national regulations, and regional studies in Ibero-America. Results show that occupational safety management has evolved towards integral models, reflected in standards such as ISO 45001:2018, and that Ecuadorian legislation has progressively advanced towards mandatory management systems. However, SMEs face resource and structural limitations, hindering effective implementation of OHSMS. The discussion emphasizes the educational dimension as a key factor to transform occupational safety into an organizational learning process, capable of fostering preventive competencies and consolidating shared values. It is concluded that integrating educational processes into OHSMS can strengthen the sustainability of SMEs and contribute to workers’ overall well-being.