Phychosocial factors and risks in work environments: Case study of employees of MSMEs in Medellin - Colombia

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this research is to determine which are the elements associated with work environments that generate psychosocial risks in employees. The empirical application considers the case of companies located in the city of Medellín.

Design/methodology: Exploratory, qualitative research based on the review of literature in documentary sources on psychosocial risk factors and dimensions using the evaluation tool "SUSESO/ISTAS21 Questionnaire short version". The data collected are grouped into dimensions and sub-dimensions and then described by means of factor analysis.

Findings: The most relevant findings in relation to general health, mental health, vitality and stress symptoms of workers could be caused by factors such as excessive workload. These factors correspond to psychosocial risks: psychological, cognitive and sensory demands are due to lack of skills and training. Active work and skill development can lead to mechanisation, incompetence and lack of creativity. In the social support dimension lack of direction leads to lack of responsibilities and procedures. In the compensation dimension, risks associated with salary conditions and retention policies are affected, and in the dual presence dimension, risks are consolidated by increased demands and incompatible demands on working time.

Originality/value: Through this research, it was possible to identify psychosocial risk factors that may affect psychological health, which reveals a wide field of knowledge for future research.