Työsuojelutarkastus

Työsuojelutarkastus is a Finnish term that translates to occupational safety and health inspection. It is a process conducted by authorities, primarily the Finnish Regional State Administrative Agencies (Aluehallintovirastot - AVI), to ensure that workplaces comply with laws and regulations concerning occupational safety and health. These inspections are a crucial part of the Finnish system for preventing accidents and occupational diseases.

During a työsuojelutarkastus, an inspector may visit a workplace to examine various aspects of its operations. This can include assessing the physical working environment, machinery safety, the handling of hazardous substances, ergonomic conditions, and the organization of work. The inspector also reviews documentation related to occupational safety, such as risk assessments, safety training records, and accident reports. They may interview employees and management to gather information and assess their understanding of safety procedures.

The purpose of these inspections is not solely punitive. While non-compliance can lead to orders for improvement or even penalties, the primary goal is to promote a safe and healthy work environment and to provide guidance to employers on how to meet their obligations. Workplaces are expected to have systems in place to identify and manage risks, and the inspection verifies the effectiveness of these systems. A työsuojelutarkastus can be routine, initiated by a complaint, or targeted based on specific industry risks.