Occupational health and safety. The Swedish model

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health and Safety
• Comparative Legislation
• Workplace Regulations

Background:

• Occupational health and safety (OHS) legislation adoption varies globally.
• Sweden and the United States share socioeconomic values, suggesting potential for cross-national learning in OHS.
• Understanding the Swedish OHS system can benefit US professionals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the Swedish Work Environment Act and its implementation.
• To identify key features of the Swedish OHS system that promote greater acceptance.
• To provide insights for improving OHS in the United States.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of the Swedish Work Environment Act as a framework law.
• Examination of the role of collective bargaining in defining OHS details.
• Investigation of employer responsibilities and compliance flexibility.
• Review of the functions and powers of safety committees and delegates.

Main Results:

• The Swedish system is a frame law detailed by collective bargaining, granting employers flexibility.
• Plant safety committees and safety delegates are legally mandated and integral to compliance.
• These bodies possess rights to training, information, and the authority to halt dangerous work.
• The Swedish model emphasizes consensus and cooperation in OHS.

Conclusions:

• The Swedish OHS model, emphasizing collaboration and flexibility, demonstrates successful legislative acceptance.
• Key elements like empowered safety committees and delegates offer valuable lessons for the US.
• Adoption of similar cooperative strategies could enhance OHS effectiveness in the United States.