Occupational Health and Safety: Rights and Responsibilities

Rights and Responsibilities in Occupational Hazard Prevention

Duties of the Enterprise (Public or Private)

General Duties

• Ensure the safety and health of all employees.
• Integrate preventive activity into all business processes.
• Ensure full regulatory compliance.
• Assume all costs associated with health and safety measures.

Duties With Respect to Workers

• Inform and educate workers regarding:
  • Identified workplace risks.
  • Preventive and protective measures.
  • Proper handling of machinery and tools.
• Cease operations in cases of serious and imminent danger.
• Regularly monitor the health of workers.
• Consult with workers and facilitate their active participation.
• Provide necessary protective equipment and safety gear.
• Provide special protection for vulnerable groups.

Duties With Respect to the Workplace

• Develop a comprehensive prevention plan.
• Organize necessary resources.
• Implement emergency measures.
• Develop and maintain detailed safety documentation.
• Coordinate prevention efforts when multiple companies share a site.

Rights and Duties of Workers

Rights

• Right to information and training.
• Right to work stoppage in cases of serious and imminent danger.
• Right to regular health surveillance.
• Right to consultation and participation.

Duties

• Respect and adhere to all established prevention rules.
• Correctly use machinery, tools, and safety equipment.
• Immediately inform supervisors of any situation that constitutes a health hazard.
• Ensure the safety and health of oneself, peers, and others affected by work activities.
• Cooperate with the employer to ensure effective prevention and protection.

Regulatory Agencies

International Level

International Labour Organization (ILO): A United Nations agency that includes Spain as a member. Its mission is to improve health, safety, and working conditions globally.

National Level

National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (INSHT): The specialized national scientific and technical body of the Central Government. Its mission is to analyze, study, promote, and improve workplace safety and health.

Labour and Social Security Inspection: The technical organ of public administration tasked with monitoring and controlling compliance with labor standards and occupational risk prevention regulations.