Promoting Occupational Safety, Health, and Well-Being in SME Manufacturing Companies

Abstract

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play a significant role in the EU economy and account for a large number of employment opportunities. Improvements in the working conditions and well-being of employees in SMEs are crucial for the development of businesses, societies, and workers. This study investigated and developed the safety, health, and well-being (SHW) of employees in SME manufacturing companies. The proposed company-specific development process involved four companies and consisted of an e-survey, interviews, and a workshop. Both employers and employee representatives participated in the process. The process revealed a good working community and support received from others as resources in the studied companies. The factors needing development were found to be work posture and movement, workplace thermal environment, communication, haste, orderliness, and tidiness. This study provides knowledge about SHW risks, resources, and development measures in manufacturing SMEs.