Occupational Health and Safety (EKAS): Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how workplace safety guidelines work and what employers must do to maintain a safe working environment in Switzerland.
This scheme provides the essential regulatory framework and official guidelines used to ensure that all working environments remain safe and healthy for everyone involved.
Who it's for
This scheme is designed for all employers. Whether you manage a large industrial site or a small office, the regulations apply to any person or entity that employs staff.
What you get
Through this scheme, you receive access to standardized guidelines for maintaining a safe working environment. These rules, referred to locally as Arbeitssicherheitsrichtlinien, serve as a roadmap for identifying workplace hazards and implementing the necessary protections to keep employees from injury or illness. By following these guidelines, employers can ensure their workplace meets the required safety standards.
What it costs you
While the guidelines themselves are provided to help you manage your workplace, compliance requires an investment of resources. Specifically, employers are responsible for providing mandatory safety training for their staff. This ensures that every employee understands how to operate safely and how to respond to potential hazards in their specific work area.
The catch to know
The most important thing to remember is that following safety protocols is not enough on its own; you must also maintain thorough documentation. It is mandatory to keep records of the safety measures you have implemented and the training your staff has received. This documentation serves as proof that you are meeting your legal obligations regarding workplace safety.
How to apply
- Access the official guidelines through the coordination commission to understand your specific responsibilities.
- Evaluate your current workspace to identify where these safety guidelines need to be applied.
- Arrange and conduct the mandatory safety training sessions required for your employees.
- Establish a system to document all safety measures and training records to ensure you remain compliant.
For more information and to access the official guidelines, visit the official portal: https://www.ekas.ch