A recently published study aims at producing a better understanding of the
importance of Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) as a contributing factor to
the economic viability of an organisation, in particular small and medium-sized
companies (SMEs). The study looks at the potential effects of the proposals
currently being considered for reducing administrative burdens in the field of
health and safety at work, by derogations to the key directives in terms of
information duties.


- The first part of the introduction chapter describes the objectives of the
study and makes a brief outline of the methodology used. The second part of the
introductory chapter provides a general introduction to OSH in Europe.

- This is followed by chapter 2, which analyses the EU Action Programme for
reducing administrative burdens and the potential impacts this will have on OSH.

- Chapter 3 looks into the connection between financial and other benefits and
compliance with OSH regulation, how safety management obligations are actually
carried out - in particular in SMEs - and the potential effects of cutting down
on OSH regulation. Also considered are indicators for measuring the outcomes of
the OSH effort in companies, tools for risk assessment, and ways to increase
awareness of the benefits of effective compliance with OSH measures.

- Chapter 4 focuses on emerging OSH risks and new prevention measures to match
these risks

- Finally, chapter 5 concludes and makes policy recommendations.

The study on the implementation of the directives on Health and Safety at work
as a cost factor has been requested by the European Parliament's Employment
Committee.

More information

AplusA-online.de - Source: European Agency for Safety and Health at Work