The new OSH Framework recognises SMEs constraints

30 June 2021
by smeunited -- last modified 30 June 2021

SMEunited stresses that the ambitious OSH Framework will nevertheless put renewed compliance efforts on SMEs.

The new EU Strategic Framework on Health and Safety at Work for 2021-2027 will be a challenge for SMEs to fully implement the new obligations it entails. Anticipating and managing change to cope with risks related to digital work, improving prevention of work-related diseases and accidents and increasing preparedness for any potential future health crises put forward new requirements. SMEunited insists that micro-enterprises and SMEs receive the right guidance, training and financial support for the future OSH obligations.

"The new type of risks related to digitalisation, such as psychosocial risks and mental health, will require a lot of training and dedicated support to micro-enterprises and SMEs. Guidance combined with advice and financial support will be required to ensure full compliance in small businesses" stated SMEunited Secretary General Willems.

Social partners and SME organisations play a key role to support and advise small enterprises to implement the future oriented OSH measures. Therefore more efforts are required to strengthen their capacity in terms of expertise in the field of OSH. In the same way the capacity of social partners representing SME employers should be reinforced in order to engage more effectively in social dialogue on OSH agreements at all levels. They are the ones best placed to find solutions adapted to the workplace reality in small businesses.

"OSH measures can be successfully implemented at the workplace if everyone understands and fully respects the rules. We suggest to include OSH information at all levels starting in education and training curricula to raise awareness of young people at an early stage" she concluded.

SMEunited, formerly known as UEAPME, is the association of crafts and SMEs in Europe with around 70 member organisations from over 30 European countries. SMEunited is a recognised employers' organisation and European Social Partner and acts on behalf of crafts and SMEs in the European Social Dialogue and in discussions with the EU institutions.

SMEunited