Occupational health and safety practices in SMEs from the perspective of occupational safety experts

In this study, occupational health and safety practices in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Turkey were examined. For this purpose, literature research was carried out first and articles were examined. The changing definition of SMEs, their importance in the country's economy, the advantages and disadvantages of such enterprises are evaluated. Then, the purpose and importance of occupational health and safety practices were mentioned and the applicability of the Occupational Health and Safety Law No. 6331, which was adopted in 2012, in SMEs was examined. For this purpose, field research was conducted in Kocaeli, Izmit and Gebze, which are industrial cities. The sample of the research consists of occupational safety experts serving SMEs. Semi-structured interview method was used in the research. Law No. 6331 regulates the creation of healthy and safe working environments largely through employer obligations. It has been envisaged to receive support from occupational health and safety professionals in fulfilling these obligations. In this context, occupational health and safety practices differ in large enterprises and small and medium-sized enterprises. As a result of the interviews with the occupational safety experts, it has been revealed that there are problems in the implementation of the Law No. 6331 due to the problems in finance, human resources, education, safety culture and safety awareness in SMEs