Background <p>Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are among the most common occupational health problems and a leading cause of work-related disability, particularly in high-risk industries such as petrochemicals. Preventive behaviors play a crucial role in mitigating MSD risks; however, no validated instrument exists to systematically assess these behaviors in this workforce.</p> Objective <p>This study aimed to develop and psychometrically validate PREMOVE (PREvention of Musculoskeletal Disorders in petrochemical Workers), an innovative instrument designed to evaluate MSD prevention behaviors among petrochemical industry workers, while accounting for occupational and contextual factors influencing preventive practices.</p> Methods <p>PREMOVE items were generated through qualitative research and unstructured interviews with frontline petrochemical employees to ensure relevance. Expert panels confirmed content and face validity. Construct validity was assessed using exploratory factor analysis (EFA). Reliability was evaluated via internal consistency (Cronbach’s α), test–retest stability (intraclass correlation coefficient, ICC), and convergent validity (Pearson’s r).</p> Results <p>Of the 59 initial items, 30 were retained. EFA revealed four dimensions: Educational and Counseling Support, Managerial and Organizational Transformation, Infrastructure Safety and Environmental Redesign, and Necessity of Self-Care. PREMOVE demonstrated high reliability and stability (α = 0.772; ICC = 0.965; <i>r</i> = 0.993).</p> Conclusions <p>PREMOVE is the first validated, behavior-focused instrument for assessing MSD prevention behaviors in petrochemical workers. It provides a reliable and scientifically robust instrument to guide workplace interventions, support evidence-based decision-making, and enhance occupational health research and safety culture in high-risk industrial settings.</p> Graphical Abstract <p></p>