The health and safety representative is chosen by the colleagues and speaks to the company about safety issues on their behalf. This person takes part in safety meetings and represents the opinions of the workers.

Workers know best what safety problems exist and how to improve the work environment. That’s why the law requires colleagues to choose a safety representative.

If you are at least 5 employees from the same company, you must elect a health and safety representative.

In companies with 10 employees or more, you also must elect a health and safety representative for the whole company. In big companies is it common to elect health and safety representative for every department. For example, one for the demolishers, one for the carpenters and one for the concrete workers.

First, we recommend calling us to assist you with the election process.

If you plan to elect a health and safety representative, you can agree on a date for the election. It is important that all colleagues and apprentices are informed about the election so they have the opportunity to participate. Your boss or construction leader cannot be elected or take part in the election, and the company has no right to interfere in the process. 

Every colleague can run for health and safety representative, except for apprentices. But apprentices can still vote.

If you want to select a health and safety representative in the company, you will often need to ask the company to arrange it. However, we recommend contacting us for advice.

If you are elected as a health and safety representative, it’s important to inform us right away. We can support you in your role and offer courses to help prepare you for the tasks ahead.

As a health and safety representative, you must attend the safety meetings at your workplace. You are the voice of your colleagues, so it’s crucial to speak with them before each meeting to gather any concerns or issues they would like raised. You will also be the point of contact for your colleagues if they have questions or concerns about safety, the work environment, or stress-related issues.

If you are elected as the health and safety representative for the entire company or a specific department, you will take part in meetings related to overall safety and the work environment. The company should involve you in the planning of work processes, as you represent the voice of your colleagues.

Your main responsibility is to stay connected with your colleagues and gather their feedback on how safety and the work environment can be improved. You are the one who will represent them and advocate for their needs within the company. However, remember that a representative is only as strong as the support they have from their colleagues. It’s crucial that all colleagues stand behind their health and safety representative.

As a health and safety representative, you are legally protected from dismissal. If the company attempts to dismiss you, contact us immediately.