Labour inspections: how prepared are you?

The Labour Inspectorate for Occupational Welfare Monitoring (FOD ELSD) inspections are done through statistically significant sampling. This is how the FOD ELSD maps how well sectors comply with welfare regulations. Inspectors assess during the investigation whether companies comply with legal obligations.

It is best to prepare well for an inspection visit. You want to avoid inspectors finding serious or repeated breaches - good preparation is therefore essential. We list the main points of attention:

1. Ensure your organisation’s identification document is correctly and fully completed. Are you a Mensura customer? Then you can find the right document via our customer zone MyMensura.
2. Clearly list the (contact) details of the key people in the prevention policy and display the document in a visible and accessible location. MyMensura provides a template that will help you discover which profiles are essential on the list.
3. Carry out a risk analysis to develop a targeted Annual Action Plan and Global Prevention Plan. The templates for this are available through our MyMensura client zone.
4. Ensure the key people in the prevention policy are adequately trained. Take a look at the full range of training courses on offer at Mensura Learn&Connect.
5. Provide an onboarding and mentoring process for new employees. Find a handy guide to help you at MyMensura.
6. Carry out a (legally required) risk analysis on psychosocial risks. SONAR is a simple and low-threshold method for mapping wellbeing in your organisation.
7. Establish clear procedures related to maternity protection. You can download a (sectoral) sample document via MyMensura.
8. Draw up clear procedures related to First Aid. This document will help you on your way.
9. Carry out a risk analysis on chemical agents if employees come into contact with hazardous products.
10. Store your External Technical Inspection Service (EDTC) inspection reports in a central place. These might be requested during an inspection.

If the inspector finds that your organisation does not meet the Welfare Act, he or she will draw up an inspection report. In this report, the inspector lists the actions you must take and the deadlines for these actions.

The organisation does not always receive this document after an inspection, so make sure to note down the inspector’s comments during the visit. After all, you are still obliged to implement the improvement even if you didn’t receive the official report.