työsuojelulaki

Työturvallisuuslaki, commonly referred to as the Occupational Safety Act in Finnish, is the central piece of Finland’s legislation on occupational safety and health. The term työsuojelulaki is sometimes used in older texts or colloquially, but in contemporary Finnish law the act is generally known as työturvallisuuslaki. The current framework focuses on creating and maintaining a safe and healthy working environment for all employees, contractors, and other workers in Finland. The act has its roots in the 2000s and has been amended several times to align with evolving EU directives and national safety practices.

Scope and purpose

The law applies to all workplaces and work activities in Finland, regardless of sector or company size. Its objective is to prevent work-related injuries, illnesses, and hazards by requiring preventive measures, safe working conditions, and appropriate organizing of safety tasks. It emphasizes proactive risk management, worker involvement, and continuous improvement of safety and health at work.

Key obligations for employers

Employers must carry out systematic risk assessment of the work environment and working methods, identify hazards, and implement measures to eliminate or minimize risks. They are required to ensure safe design, maintenance, and use of equipment and facilities; provide adequate information, training, and supervision; supply necessary personal protective equipment; and establish procedures for emergencies, reporting, and accident investigations. The law also supports the involvement of workers through safety representatives and, where applicable, safety committees.

Worker duties and involvement

Employees and other workers must follow safety instructions, use provided protective equipment, and participate in safety training and discussions. The act outlines rights of workers to refuse dangerous work under certain conditions and to raise safety concerns without retaliation.

Enforcement and related statutes

Compliance is monitored by the authorities responsible for occupational safety and health, which may conduct inspections and require corrective actions in case of violations. The työturvallisuuslaki interacts with related legislation on occupational health services, working hours, and accident reporting to ensure a comprehensive safety system.

History and impact

Since its adoption, the act has shaped national practices for risk assessment, workplace safety planning, and worker participation, contributing to improved safety records across Finnish workplaces.