Occupational Health And Safety For Small And Medium Sized Enterprises

Small and medium sized enterprises constitute the vast majority of businesses in most developed economies. Although a large number of people are employed in such organizations, research and practice in occupational health and safety has largely ignored the unique challenges of this sector. In this highly relevant book, international experts in the field summarize existing knowledge and identify the best practices for enhancing occupational health and safety in small and medium sized enterprises. The authors specifically identify solutions that are appropriate for small businesses. Covering a full range of topics from traditional safety to psychosocial health, this insightful book will appeal to multidisciplinary audience, including researchers and graduate students in occupational health psychology; academics in the area of small business; practicing occupational health psychologists; as well as small business owners.

Safety is an important aspect of everyday business operations. It can have an impact on the operations of an enterprise as well as the wellbeing of the workers. Literature shows that SMEs face extra problems in this area due to limited resources and lack of knowledge. A potential accident on the premises, in many cases, has devastating consequences. SMEs make up the vast majority of private companies in the EU and beyond. Despite the importance of the issue, the information found in literature is scattered and often not aimed at SMEs. This book aims to gather the latest information and become the full reference point for designing and adopting an appropriate safety strategy for SMEs.

'The editors say that their book demonstrates a clear need for low cost, low tech, non-resource demanding OS&H interventions that could readily be deployed in a small business setting. It certainly does this and the clarity with which the book is written and set out should encourage a wide range of readers to consider the issues raised.' - the RoSPA Occupational Safety and Health Journal

SMEs (Small and Medium-sized Enterprises) are important contributors to European competitiveness, with most new jobs in Europe being created by micro-enterprises with up to six employees. However, they also face particular difficulties including effective management of safety and health and Member States have set up measures to assist entrepreneurship. The Agency has carried out several important projects to improve occupational safety and health in SMEs, including special funding schemes of good safety and health practice in SMEs initiated by the European Parliament and the European Commission. As part of these efforts the Agency has also made a study of practical examples of successful occupational safety and health assistance services to SMEs.

"This book addresses the issues of HRM in SMEs by providing a channel of communication to disseminate knowledge; including management philosophies, culture, and management practices"--Provided by publisher.