| Document ID (ISN) | 112460 |
| CIS number |
12-0067 |
| ISBN(s) |
978-92-9191-228-5 |
| Year |
2009 |
| Convention or series no. |
|
| Author(s) |
Gervais R.L., Pawlowska Z., Bojanowski R., Kouvonen A., Karanika-Murray M., Van den Broek K., De Greef K. |
| Title |
Occupational safety and health and economic performance in small and medium-sized enterprises: A review |
| Bibliographic information |
European Agency for Safety and Health at Work, Gran Vía 33, 48009 Bilbao, Spain, 2009. 42p. Illus. Approx. 120 ref. |
| Internet access |
OSH_and_economic_performance_[INTERNET_FREE_ACCESS] [in English]
|
| Abstract |
This review examines the link between occupational safety and health (OSH) and economic performance, especially as it relates to small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs). It is essential to stress from the outset that while there is no clear definition of economic performance, there are indicators that can examine the concept and its importance to businesses. OSH is not usually viewed as a contributory factor to the economic viability of an organization. Compliance with government guidelines, regulations and laws is generally the primary focus of OSH policies. Perceptions of the connection between effective OSH and the resulting financial benefits could, and should be improved. The strong economic advantages of good occupational health practice need to be highlighted continuously to organizations because the failure to acknowledge the importance of this link will limit the effectiveness of interventions aimed at preventing disease and injury. Additionally, while the cost of ensuring safety is important, the lack of safety is also costly. For example, a reduction of accidents, damage and improvements to poor health can lead to a reduction in costs and a greater availability of people and plant. This, in turn, can improve efficiency and thereby heighten the effectiveness of businesses. |
| Descriptors (primary) |
European Union; small enterprises; plant safety and health organization; public OSH institutions; economic aspects |
| Descriptors (secondary) |
cost of safety; literature survey; report |
| Document type |
E - Books, reports, proceedings |
| Country / State or Province | European Union |
| Subject(s) |
Generalities
|
| Broad subject area(s) |
General safety, health and conditions of work
|
| Browse category(ies) |
Economic aspects
Small and medium-sized enterprises
|
