Moldova Enhances Compliance Training and Education in Occupational Health and Safety
Strengthening Regulations for a Safer Work Environment
The Republic of Moldova has been taking significant steps to strengthen its occupational health and safety (OHS) regulations, aiming to create a safer work environment for employees. The country’s Labour Code, Law on Occupational Safety and Health, and ratification of key International Labour Organization conventions have formed the backbone of these efforts.
Employer Responsibilities
Employers in Moldova are required to:
- Develop and implement OHS policies that comply with national legislation
- Conduct risk assessments to identify potential hazards
- Provide workers with necessary training, information, instructions, and supervision
- Supply personal protective equipment at no cost
- Ensure safe working conditions for employees
Employee Rights
Employees in Moldova have the right to:
- Safe working conditions
- Raise health and safety concerns without fear of reprisal
- Refuse hazardous work without protections
- Participate in the development of OHS policies
Key Aspects of Moldova’s OHS Legislation
The Law on Occupational Safety and Health serves as the central legislative framework for OHS in Moldova, encompassing specific areas such as:
- Chemical safety
- Fire safety
- Machinery and equipment safety
- Construction safety
- Biological hazards
Employers are obligated to conduct workplace risk assessments, identify potential hazards, and implement preventive measures following the hierarchy of controls.
Mandatory OHS Training
Mandatory OHS training is provided by employers to all employees, covering:
- General awareness
- Job-specific hazard identification and mitigation
- Safe work procedures and practices
- Emergency response procedures
Occupational health surveillance is also emphasized through pre-employment and periodic health assessments for certain occupations, surveillance of the working environment for potential health risks, and offering health promotion programs.
Challenges in Implementing Effective OHS Practices
Despite efforts to strengthen regulations, challenges remain in implementing effective OHS practices in Moldova, including:
- Limited resources for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)
- Coverage of informal workers by OSH regulations
- Improving awareness about OHS rights and responsibilities among both employers and employees
Role of the State Labour Inspectorate
The State Labour Inspectorate plays a key role in conducting workplace inspections, following a structured approach that includes:
- Planning
- Notification
- On-site inspection
- Reporting
- Enforcement actions
Inspectors assess compliance with regulations such as risk assessments, safe work procedures, personal protective equipment provision, emergency preparedness, training records, and accident and incident reporting.
Workplace Accidents and Investigations
Workplace accidents in Moldova must be reported immediately, involving employers, the State Labour Inspectorate, National Social Insurance Office, Trade Union, and National Public Health Agency. Detailed records of all workplace accidents are maintained as per The Law on Occupational Safety and Health, Article 20.
Protocols for investigating workplace accidents have been established in Moldova, with investigations conducted by employer-formed commissions or the State Labour Inspectorate depending on the severity of the accident.
Conclusion
As Moldova continues its efforts to enhance compliance training and education in OHS, it is essential to address the challenges that persist and ensure effective enforcement of regulations to create a safer work environment for all employees.