Arbowet

Arbowet, short for Arbeidsomstandighedenwet, is the Dutch Working Conditions Act. It provides the legal framework to protect workers’ health and safety in the Netherlands and assigns duties to employers, employees, and other parties. The act has evolved since its introduction in the late 20th century and has been updated to align with EU directives and modern safety standards. Enforcement is carried out by the Labour Inspectorate (Inspectie SZW) on behalf of the Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment.

The scope of the Arbowet covers virtually all organizations with employees in the Netherlands. Core obligations for employers include conducting a risk inventory and evaluation (RI&E) and maintaining an action plan to address identified risks. Employers must implement appropriate safety and health measures, provide information, instruction, and training to workers, and ensure access to necessary protective equipment. They are required to establish or contract an occupational health service (Arbodienst) and to maintain an active safety policy, emergency procedures, and procedures for reporting accidents and occupational diseases. Record-keeping and documentation are part of compliance.

Worker involvement is a feature of the law. Employees have rights to information and training and may participate through safety representatives or works councils, contributing to a collaborative approach to workplace safety. The act interacts with sector-specific regulations and the broader Dutch regulatory framework, including the Arbeidsomstandighedenbesluit (Working Conditions Decree) and guidelines for sectoral safety requirements.

Non-compliance can lead to enforcement actions, including orders to remedy deficiencies and penalties. The Arbowet aims to reduce work-related injuries and illnesses while promoting a culture of safety within Dutch workplaces.