Workplace safety in the Netherlands: employer guide

Short answer

In the Netherlands, use the Nederlandse Arbeidsinspectie (Netherlands Labour Authority) and Arbeidsomstandighedenwet (Working Conditions Act) to plan workplace safety and instruction.

Who oversees safety at work?

Start with the tasks and hazards at your site. This page points to the regulator and legal framework; check their current guidance before making a workplace decision. The relevant public body is Nederlandse Arbeidsinspectie (Netherlands Labour Authority). Also see Labour Authority guidance on the Act.

What should an employer do first?

Employers must run a working-conditions policy, record risks in the RI&E and give workers appropriate information and instruction. Arbeidsomstandighedenwet (Working Conditions Act) For each task, write down the hazard, the control and the instruction workers need. Check the RI&E before choosing lessons: it should point to the hazards and controls relevant to the actual job.

Five training topics to check

Choose from these topics using the job's risks; this is not a universal course list. Arbeidsomstandighedenwet (Working Conditions Act)

1. Ri&e induction — explain local hazards and the reporting route. 2. Lifting and ergonomics — demonstrate the safe method for this task. 3. Machinery — check equipment, exclusion zones and supervision. 4. Hazardous substances — check labels and local exposure controls. 5. Aggression and violence — explain the reporting and support route.

Useful official links

• Nederlandse Arbeidsinspectie (Netherlands Labour Authority)
• Arbeidsomstandighedenwet (Working Conditions Act)
• Labour Authority guidance on the Act