Ensuring a safe and healthy workplace is paramount for businesses operating in Greenland. The unique environmental conditions and specific industries present distinct challenges that require diligent adherence to established health and safety regulations. A robust framework is in place to protect employees and maintain productive operations, emphasizing preventative measures and clear responsibilities for both employers and workers.
Compliance with Greenland's occupational health and safety requirements is not just a legal obligation but a fundamental aspect of responsible business practice. Understanding the regulatory landscape, implementing effective safety protocols, and fostering a culture of safety are essential steps for any company employing staff in the territory.
Health and Safety Laws and Regulatory Framework
Workplace health and safety in Greenland is primarily governed by legislation that aligns closely with Danish law, adapted to local conditions. The key framework is established to ensure a safe working environment, prevent accidents and occupational diseases, and promote employee well-being.
The primary authority responsible for overseeing and enforcing these regulations is the Greenlandic Working Environment Authority (Arbejdstilsynet i Grønland). This body sets standards, conducts inspections, and provides guidance on compliance.
Key aspects of the regulatory framework include:
- General duties for employers to ensure a safe working environment.
- Requirements for risk assessment and prevention.
- Rules concerning specific hazards (e.g., machinery, chemicals, manual handling).
- Provisions for employee participation in safety matters.
- Requirements for reporting accidents and occupational diseases.
Occupational Health and Safety Standards and Practices
Implementing effective health and safety standards involves proactive measures to identify, assess, and control workplace risks. This includes developing and maintaining a systematic approach to safety management.
Risk Assessment
Employers are required to conduct systematic risk assessments (arbejdspladsvurdering - APV) to identify potential hazards in the workplace. This process involves:
- Identifying all potential risks (physical, chemical, biological, psychosocial).
- Assessing the likelihood and severity of harm.
- Developing and implementing control measures to eliminate or reduce risks.
- Reviewing and updating the assessment regularly, especially after changes in the workplace or incidents.
Safety Committees
Workplaces with a certain number of employees are required to establish a safety organization, often involving safety representatives and a safety committee (sikkerhedsudvalg). The safety committee is a joint body comprising representatives from both management and employees. Its role includes:
- Participating in the planning and implementation of safety activities.
- Reviewing risk assessments and action plans.
- Investigating accidents and near misses.
- Promoting a positive safety culture.
Training Requirements
Employers must ensure that employees receive adequate and appropriate training and instruction on health and safety relevant to their specific tasks and the workplace environment. This includes:
- General safety induction for new employees.
- Specific training on operating machinery or handling hazardous substances.
- Training on emergency procedures.
- Training for safety representatives and committee members.
Documentation Obligations
Maintaining proper documentation is crucial for demonstrating compliance and managing safety effectively. Required documentation typically includes:
- The written risk assessment (APV) and action plan.
- Records of safety training provided to employees.
- Documentation of safety inspections and audits.
- Records of accidents, near misses, and occupational diseases.
- Safety instructions and procedures for specific tasks or equipment.
Workplace Inspection Processes and Requirements
The Greenlandic Working Environment Authority conducts inspections to ensure compliance with health and safety legislation. Inspections can be routine or triggered by specific events, such as accidents or complaints.
Inspectors assess various aspects of the workplace, including:
- Physical working conditions (e.g., lighting, ventilation, noise).
- Safety of machinery and equipment.
- Handling and storage of hazardous materials.
- Ergonomics and manual handling practices.
- Effectiveness of the safety organization and risk management processes.
- Availability and use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
Employers are required to cooperate with inspectors and provide access to the workplace and relevant documentation. Following an inspection, the authority may issue orders or requirements for improvements, with deadlines for compliance.
Workplace Accident Protocols and Reporting
In the event of a workplace accident or the diagnosis of an occupational disease, specific protocols must be followed.
Immediate Actions
- Provide first aid and ensure necessary medical attention for the injured person(s).
- Secure the accident scene to prevent further incidents and preserve evidence (unless it hinders rescue efforts).
- Notify relevant internal personnel (e.g., supervisor, safety representative).
Reporting Requirements
Certain accidents and occupational diseases must be reported to the Greenlandic Working Environment Authority and potentially other relevant bodies (e.g., insurance providers).
| Event Type | Reporting Obligation |
|---|---|
| Accidents resulting in absence > 1 day | Must be reported to the Working Environment Authority. |
| Serious accidents (fatal, serious injury) | Must be reported immediately by phone to the Working Environment Authority and police. |
| Occupational diseases | Must be reported by a doctor to the Working Environment Authority. |
| Near misses (incidents that could have led to injury) | Should be investigated internally to prevent recurrence, though not always legally required to report externally unless specified. |
Detailed records of all accidents and incidents should be kept internally, regardless of external reporting requirements.
Employer and Employee Responsibilities for Workplace Safety
Workplace safety is a shared responsibility, with distinct duties for both employers and employees.
Employer Responsibilities
Employers hold the primary responsibility for ensuring a safe and healthy working environment. Key duties include:
- Establishing and maintaining a systematic approach to health and safety.
- Identifying and assessing risks and implementing control measures.
- Providing necessary information, instruction, and training to employees.
- Ensuring machinery, equipment, and work processes are safe.
- Providing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Establishing a safety organization (where required).
- Investigating accidents and implementing preventative actions.
- Complying with orders from the Working Environment Authority.
Employee Responsibilities
Employees also have a crucial role to play in maintaining workplace safety. Their responsibilities include:
- Following safety instructions and procedures.
- Using provided safety equipment and PPE correctly.
- Reporting hazards, risks, accidents, and near misses to their supervisor or safety representative.
- Cooperating with the employer and safety organization on safety matters.
- Participating in training provided.
- Taking reasonable care for their own health and safety and that of others affected by their actions.
