Prevention of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders in Small Enterprises: A Policy Brief

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) in small enterprises have become a major occupational health and productivity challenge, largely driven by ergonomic exposures and structural as well as economic constraints. An appraisal of the available evidence and an assessment of the operational context of small enterprises indicate that the primary gap lies not in recognizing risk factors, but in the effective implementation of preventive interventions. Key barriers include weak enforcement and regulatory oversight, limited financial resources, insufficient economic incentives, a disconnect between risk assessment and corrective action, and the absence of supportive mechanisms to maintain employment. Accordingly, the proposed policy strategies emphasize strengthening risk-based inspections and measurable minimum requirements, enhancing the professional independence of occupational health practitioners, establishing a surveillance and reporting system, expanding insurance- and finance-based incentives, mandating trackable corrective action plans, supporting job security, and delivering skills-based workplace training. Coordinated implementation of these measures can improve the feasibility and follow-up of preventive interventions and reduce the burden of WMSDs in small enterprises.