​​Safety representative

The safety representative's role is to make sure the interests in matters relating to work environment is being followed.

​Safety representatives responsibilities

As safety representatives one should make sure that the business is arranged and maintained, and that the work is performed in such a manner that the safety, health and welfare is being maintend.

​One should especially see to that:

Machines, technical installations, chemical substances and work processes are not exposing the employee to any danger.
Safety devices and personal protective equipment are provided in adequate quantities, that it is easily available and in proper condition. Employees receive the necessary instruction, practice and training.
Jobs/assignments is organized as such the employee can perform the task in a health and safety conscious manner.
Reports of work accidents is reported.
The safety representative shall attend the Labour Inspection inspections and follow up that the employer fulfill the regulations and recommendations from the Labour Inspection.
The safety representative shall have an active role in the company's HSE. The safety representative shall also be consulted during the planning and implementation of measures that affect the working environment within the safety representative, including the establishment, implementation and maintenance of the internal control system in the business.

​If the business don not have a “working environment committees” the business safety representative shall also:

​​​​​​​Evaluate and issue opinions on questions concerning occupational health service and the internal safety service.
Consider training programs of importance to the work environment
Process plans that require Labour Inspection consent and other plans that have significant impact on the work environment, for example. purchase of machinery, rationalization, working arrangements and precautions, and the establishment and maintenance of internal control systems.
Review reports on occupational diseases, work accidents, occupational hygiene examinations, and contribute to identify causes and that the employer takes measures to prevent recurrence.

It is nevertheless important to emphasize that it is the employer's responsibility to meet legal requirements.

The safety representative shall listen to work colleagues and consult with them before they suggest a solution to the employer. Where there are occupational health service or safety personnel is natural to collaborate with them.

Conflicts of working environment problems should ideally be solved internally in the company. You can always contact Labour Inspection when you need advice and guidance. The same applies when you believe it is necessary to get the Labour Inspections view in cases in you and your employer cannot reach an agreement.