Anyone who starts a business in Norway will, sooner or later, come across the three letters HMS. This stands for Helse, Miljø og Sikkerhet (Health, Environment and Safety). However, it is a mistake to think that HMS is merely a folder full of documents that you need to have ready for an inspection by the Labour Inspectorate (Arbeidstilsynet). In fact, HMS is a systematic and ongoing process designed to ensure a safe and healthy working environment.
Under Norwegian law (Regulations on Systematic Health, Safety and Environmental Work in Enterprises), every company is required to have a functioning HSE system. This means that the employer is responsible for ensuring that activities relating to the health and safety of employees are systematically planned, organised, carried out and monitored.
What does a functioning HMS system consist of?
1 Definition of responsibilities: Who is responsible for HSE within the company? (Manager, safety representative – verneombud).
2 Risk assessment: Ongoing identification of hazards, risk assessment and a plan for preventive measures.
3 Procedures and instructions: Clear rules on how to carry out work safely, use equipment and act in the event of an accident.
4 Reporting of deviations (Avvikshåndtering): A system that enables employees to report hazardous situations, incidents or non-conformities, and the process for responding to them.
5 Training and information: Ensuring that all staff are aware of the risks and safety procedures.
6 Annual review: Assessment of the system’s effectiveness and continuous improvement.
Having a well-organised HMS system is not a burden, but an investment. Not only does it protect against fines, but it also helps to reduce staff sickness, boosts productivity and creates a positive image for the company.
NORD HMS offers a digital, multilingual HMS system that allows you to manage all these processes online, simply and efficiently. We help not only with preparing the documents, but also with implementing a fully functional system within your organisation and digitising your company’s HMS. Get in touch to find out how we can help you – info@nordhms.no or +4790289530