Motivational factors influencing small construction and auto repair enterprises to participate in occupational health and safety programmes

摘要

Small enterprises have limited resources to prioritise occupational health and safety (OHS). Regu-lators and other stakeholders have developed programmes to support these enterprises. The study analyses the factors influencing active participation of small enterprises to engage in a Danish OHS programme which focuses on the prevention of wear and tear of the musculoskeletal system. The programme studied is targeted to the needs of small enterprises in construction and auto repair, and the enterprises are provided financial support and support from a facilitator.The study is a qualitative case study supplemented with selected survey data from the enterprises participating in the programme. Additionally qualitative data from stakeholders involved in the implementation of the programme is included. The results show that the way the programme was introduced through either labour inspectors, employer associations, or networks influenced the motivation of the case enterprises to engage in the programme. The motivation to active participation also depended on the content of the preven-tion package, the economic support, and the possibility for facilitation. The decision to start the implementation process depended on whether the owner-managers acknowledged the need for the new OHS approach and whether they found the process meaningful. Finally, contextual factors as experienced by the owner-managers influenced the motivation for active participation. Among others these factors included general attitude towards authorities and procedures, access to relevant projects and technical equipment, the characteristics of the manager, and the workplace culture. The contextual factors can limit the efficacy of programme mechanisms and should be taken into account when designing programmes.