Finland places a strong emphasis on ensuring safe and healthy working environments for all employees. The national framework is built upon a foundation of comprehensive legislation and a culture of proactive risk management and cooperation between employers and employees. Compliance with these regulations is not only a legal obligation but also crucial for fostering productivity and employee well-being.
Navigating the specifics of occupational health and safety requirements in a foreign country can be complex for international businesses. Understanding the core principles, legal duties, and practical implementation steps is essential for seamless operations and ensuring your workforce is protected according to Finnish standards.
Health and Safety Laws and Regulatory Framework
The cornerstone of occupational health and safety in Finland is the Occupational Safety and Health Act (Työturvallisuuslaki). This primary legislation outlines the general duties of employers and employees, requirements for risk assessment, workplace design, use of machinery and equipment, and various other aspects of workplace safety. Several other acts and decrees supplement this, addressing specific risks, industries, or procedures.
Key legislation includes:
| Legislation Title | Primary Focus |
|---|---|
| Occupational Safety and Health Act | General duties, risk assessment, workplace conditions, machinery safety |
| Act on Occupational Health Care | Employer's duty to arrange occupational health services |
| Working Hours Act | Regulates working time, rest periods, and overtime |
| Act on Co-operation within Undertakings | Includes provisions for employee participation in safety matters |
| Chemical Act | Safety related to hazardous substances |
| Construction Act | Specific safety requirements for construction sites |
The Ministry of Social Affairs and Health is responsible for the overall policy and legislative framework, while the Regional State Administrative Agencies (AVI) oversee enforcement through inspections and guidance.
Occupational Health and Safety Standards and Practices
Finnish law mandates a proactive approach to workplace safety, focusing on prevention. This involves several key practices:
Risk Assessment
Employers are required to systematically identify and assess hazards and risks present in the workplace. This process should cover physical, chemical, biological, psychological, and social factors. Based on the assessment, employers must determine and implement necessary measures to eliminate or minimize risks. The assessment and the resulting action plan must be documented and regularly reviewed, especially when changes occur in the workplace or work methods.
Training and Instruction
Providing adequate training and instruction to employees is a fundamental employer duty. This includes general safety training, job-specific training on tasks and equipment, and information on identified risks and control measures. Employees must understand how to perform their work safely, use protective equipment correctly, and know emergency procedures. Training records should be maintained.
Safety Committees and Representatives
In workplaces with 20 or more regular employees, employers must establish an occupational safety and health committee or similar cooperation procedure. This committee, comprising employer and employee representatives, discusses safety matters, plans safety activities, and monitors compliance. In workplaces with fewer than 20 employees, employees elect an occupational safety and health representative who acts as their voice on safety issues.
Workplace Inspection Processes and Requirements
Regional State Administrative Agencies (AVI) conduct workplace inspections to ensure compliance with occupational safety and health legislation. Inspections can be routine, based on complaints, or triggered by accidents. Inspectors have the right to access workplaces, examine documents, interview employees and management, and take samples.
If non-compliance is found, inspectors can issue instructions, orders, or prohibitions. Employers are typically given a deadline to correct deficiencies. Failure to comply can lead to administrative coercion, fines, or even criminal charges in severe cases. Employers must cooperate fully with inspectors and provide requested information and access.
Workplace Accident Protocols and Reporting
Despite preventive efforts, accidents can occur. Finnish law requires employers to have clear protocols for responding to workplace accidents and incidents. This includes providing first aid, securing the accident scene, and investigating the cause to prevent recurrence.
Reporting is mandatory for certain incidents:
- Serious accidents: Accidents resulting in serious injury, illness, or death must be reported immediately to the Regional State Administrative Agency and the police if necessary.
- Other accidents: All occupational accidents resulting in absence from work beyond the day of the accident must be reported to the insurance institution providing statutory accident insurance.
- Serious incidents: Near misses or dangerous occurrences that could have led to serious injury must also be investigated and documented, although immediate external reporting requirements may vary depending on the nature of the incident.
Detailed records of all accidents and incidents, including investigations and corrective actions, must be kept by the employer.
Employer and Employee Responsibilities for Workplace Safety
Workplace safety is a shared responsibility under Finnish law.
Employer Responsibilities
The primary duty for ensuring a safe and healthy workplace rests with the employer. Key responsibilities include:
- Identifying and assessing risks.
- Planning, implementing, and maintaining necessary safety measures.
- Providing adequate training and instruction.
- Providing necessary personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Arranging occupational health care services.
- Investigating accidents and incidents.
- Maintaining required documentation (risk assessments, training records, accident reports).
- Cooperating with occupational safety authorities and employee representatives.
Employee Responsibilities
Employees also have significant duties to contribute to their own safety and that of others:
- Following instructions and safety procedures.
- Using machinery, equipment, and PPE correctly.
- Reporting hazards, deficiencies, and accidents to the employer or supervisor.
- Cooperating with the employer and safety representatives on safety matters.
- Avoiding actions that could endanger themselves or others.
Effective cooperation and communication between employers and employees are fundamental to maintaining a high standard of occupational health and safety in Finland.
