May 05, 2025
According to Norwegian regulations, any company with at least 30 employees is required to establish a Health and Safety Committee (AMU). This committee consists of representatives from both the employer and employees and is responsible for monitoring and improving working conditions.
The Health and Safety Committee plays a vital role in ensuring compliance with workplace regulations and promoting employee well-being. The main tasks of AMU include:
Workplace safety is not just a legal obligation but also a way to enhance efficiency and employee satisfaction. Regular inspections of working conditions and prompt responses to potential risks help reduce accidents and sick leave. Furthermore, involving employees in HSE-related processes fosters a culture of collaboration and responsibility.
The requirement to establish a Health and Safety Committee in Norway depends on the number of employees in the company:
Regardless of legal requirements, every company should prioritize the health and safety of its employees. Thoughtful actions in this area not only ensure compliance with the law but also contribute to a better work atmosphere and higher productivity.
Running a business in Norway involves adhering to strict health and safety regulations in the workplace. One of the key responsibilities for companies employing workers is to establish proper structures for monitoring working conditions. In some cases, businesses are required to appoint an Arbeidsmiljøutvalg (AMU), or Health and Safety Committee. Let's explore which companies must meet this requirement and what responsibilities AMU entails.
When Is the Establishment of AMU Mandatory?
According to Norwegian regulations, any company with at least 30 employees is required to establish a Health and Safety Committee (AMU). This committee consists of representatives from both the employer and employees and is responsible for monitoring and improving working conditions.
For businesses employing between 10 and 30 employees, the establishment of an AMU is required if requested by one of the parties, such as an employee organization or the Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority (Arbeidstilsynet).
Companies with fewer than 10 employees are not obligated to establish an AMU but must still comply with Norwegian workplace health and safety regulations.
The AMU requirement also applies to branches of foreign companies (NUF) operating in Norway. Understanding Norwegian HSE (Health, Safety, and Environment) regulations is crucial for foreign entrepreneurs.
What Are the Responsibilities of AMU?
The Health and Safety Committee plays a vital role in ensuring compliance with workplace regulations and promoting employee well-being. The main tasks of AMU include:
- Analyzing working conditions and identifying potential hazards,
- Developing and implementing measures to improve safety,
- Monitoring the implementation of HSE regulations,
- Collaborating with the employer to improve working conditions,
- Participating in planning activities related to employee health.
Why Is AMU Important?
Workplace safety is not just a legal obligation but also a way to enhance efficiency and employee satisfaction. Regular inspections of working conditions and prompt responses to potential risks help reduce accidents and sick leave. Furthermore, involving employees in HSE-related processes fosters a culture of collaboration and responsibility.
Summary
The requirement to establish a Health and Safety Committee in Norway depends on the number of employees in the company:
- 30 or more employees – AMU is mandatory,
- 10–30 employees – AMU must be established if requested by one of the parties,
- Fewer than 10 employees – no obligation to establish AMU.
Regardless of legal requirements, every company should prioritize the health and safety of its employees. Thoughtful actions in this area not only ensure compliance with the law but also contribute to a better work atmosphere and higher productivity.
All activities related to the committee should be documented, including the selection of members, meeting records, and protocols. Properly maintained documentation is an essential part of the quality and HSE management system and the so-called systematic HSE work – systematisk HMS arbeid.
Do you have questions about HSE regulations in Norway?
Are you unsure about the necessary documents for managing AMU?
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