HSE in Norway - 5 golden tips on where to begin

Just like in accounting, HSE (Health, Safety, and Environment) rules worldwide shouldn't differ significantly from country to country. However, there are some country-specific measurements that must be taken into account when planning to work abroad. The same holds true for Norway. Novum Økonomi AS has extensive experience in assisting our customers in adapting their companies to operations in Norway also in the matters of HSE. Here are the most critical rules you need to consider before establishing a Norwegian limited liability company or a Norwegian Registered Foreign Business.

Recently, our customer jokingly acknowledged having the key knowledge on HSE-Cards (HMS-kort) in Norway: 'The only individuals who are exempt from holding an HSE-card when entering a construction site in Norway are primary school children on a school trip.'

Although a bit exaggerated, the statement is somewhat relevant. Every employee or other person visiting a building or construction site in Norway should be able to present an HMS-kort upon entry. The cards can only be produced, if the person's identity has been confirmed and their employer is registered in Norway. 

The same type of cards is required for workers in the cleaning industry. 

A person in charge of a company with employees is required to undergo an HMS-kurs. Daglig Leder, a Managing Director, should be able to present a certificate of such a course, even if the company employs only one person. 

Each company employing more than 5 employees should choose a Health and Safety Representative (Verneombud). They should be chosen among the crew and complete a mandatory HSE-course. If the work is demanding, a company employing fewer than 5 employees should also consider choosing a Representative. 

In Norway, certain companies should enter into a contract with Occupational Health Services. You can find a list of sectors that should affiliate with an authorized Occupational Health Service here.

An authorized Occupational Health Service provides assistance with risk assessment, medical check-ups, air quality, acoustic measurements, etc. You can find a list of sectors which should afiliate with an authorised Occupational Health Services here.

An authorised Occupational Health Service provides assistance with risk assassement, medical check-ups, air-quality, accoustic measurments, etc. You can find a list over authorised Occupational Health Services in different regions of Norway here. 

The Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority (Arbeidstilsynet) is a body that helps companies and employees improve working conditions in Norway. The Authority's inspectors have the right to visit work sites and check for any irregularities or misconduct related to employees' safety. The Inspection's website provides very useful information on working conditions in Norway.

Author: Anna Korpalska
Graphics: Novum Økonomi AS