The Impact of Psychophysical Factors on the Level of Occupational Risk in Small-Sized Enterprises with Particular Emphasis on the Manufacturing Sector

Abstract In this paper, the authors focused on the analysis and evaluation of factors affecting the level of occupational risk in “small” enterprises, with a particular emphasis on psychophysical factors in the manufacturing sector. The study was conducted using a self-administered questionnaire. The results were verified using the strucla interview method with elements of observation. The purpose of the paper was to draw attention to – often overlooked in the assessment of occupational risks by employers – psychophysical hazards with particular emphasis on psychosocial hazards. Respondents – employees of enterprises with a particular focus on the manufacturing sector – point to psycho-physical hazards as those that, right after hazardous (accident) hazards, significantly affect the level of occupational risk. However, the assessment of factors determining the level of occupational risk changes with the age of respondents. Older workers, more often than younger ones, perceive the factors that affect the level of occupational risk. Their experience and ability to reliably identify risks can be very useful in creating awareness of safe behavior among the youngest workers, who are most vulnerable to occupational accidents. The article also presents analyses and assessments of the symptoms of occupational stress, which is one of the factors shaping psycho-physical risk that is so often underestimated by many workers and employers.