Työterveyshuoltolaki

The Työterveyshuoltolaki, or Occupational Healthcare Act, is a Finnish law governing occupational health services. It establishes the framework for employers to provide health and safety services for their employees. The primary goal of the act is to promote the health and working capacity of employees and to prevent work-related illnesses and accidents.

Under the Työterveyshuoltolaki, employers are obligated to arrange occupational health services that cover both preventive measures and basic healthcare. Preventive services include workplace assessments, risk identification, health surveillance tailored to specific job roles, and health promotion programs. Basic healthcare services, on the other hand, are intended to address common illnesses and injuries that are not directly work-related.

The act specifies that occupational health services should be provided by qualified professionals, such as occupational physicians, nurses, and other health experts. Employers can arrange these services through public healthcare providers, private occupational health service providers, or by establishing their own in-house services. The extent and nature of the services provided are influenced by the size of the workplace, the type of work performed, and the specific risks associated with it.

The Työterveyshuoltolaki also emphasizes the importance of cooperation between employers, employees, and occupational health professionals. This collaboration is crucial for identifying and managing health and safety risks effectively. The law aims to ensure that Finnish workplaces are safe and healthy environments, contributing to the overall well-being and productivity of the workforce.