Introduction Workplace health management is considered as integral part of a modern corporate culture. Many firms have already implemented single workplace health promotion measures. However, only few firms have established a comprehensive workplace health management and some might not even comply with legal requirements. The aim of this paper is to analyse the status quo of workplace health promotion and implementation of relevant regulations concerning occupational safety and health in Thuringia, Germany. The study is part of the project ‘Working Healthily in Thuringia’, a model project to implement the prevention act into practice. The project aims to improve health promotion and prevention in small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) in rural and structurally weak regions. Model region is Thuringia, a free state in Central Germany. The project is part of a comprising cooperation agreement between the German Society of Occupational and Environmental Medicine (DGAUM) and BARMER, a large statutory health insurance company in Germany.

Methods A representative sample of enterprises all around Thuringia will be interviewed. The technique of quota sampling will be used. Enterprises will be selected into the sample on the basis of number of employees, administrative district and industrial sector. The survey is based on a standardised, structured questionnaire and will be conducted by telephone. The questionnaire comprises different modules targeting the compliance with legal requirements, the implementation of workplace health promotion and occupational integration management.

Results The survey will be conducted in September 2017. Data will be analysed quantitatively and presented broken down by company size, administrative district and industrial sector.

Discussion The study will particularly provide insight into the status quo of compliance with legal requirements within the field of occupational safety and health in SME. Building on the results, a strategy for implementing a comprehensive workplace health management for SME in rural and structurally weak regions can be developed.