Key aspects to consider for workplace safety when starting a business in Italy
An essential aspect to consider when starting a business in Italy concerns workplace safety and the related legal obligations. To manage these obligations effectively, it is useful to divide them into three main areas:
1. Workplace safety
Companies employing at least one worker are legally required to appoint a Head of the Prevention and Protection Service (RSPP).
The RSPP’s primary duties include analyzing the workplace (if applicable) and reviewing existing documentation. Subsequently, the RSPP is responsible for drafting and updating the necessary documents, including:
- Risk Assessment Document (DVR)
- Emergency Plan
- Workplace maps
Frareg provides continuous and consistent services, including the appointment of an RSPP consultant who will offer assistance and support for any needs or concerns regarding health, safety, and environment (HSE).
2. Occupational medicine
Similar to workplace safety, Health Surveillance becomes mandatory as soon as a company hires its first employee. The main services provided in this area include:
- Appointment of a Competent Physician: Frareg boasts a network of over 100 physicians across the national territory, including islands, ensuring that a professional is always close to the client’s workplace and annual site inspections are facilitated.
- Scheduling of periodic medical check-ups: With a team of approximately 10 professionals, Frareg offers constant support by scheduling necessary medical examinations in advance.
- Preparation of the Health Protocol: The Health Protocol is a key document that identifies tasks and associated risks, representing an essential component of the company’s documentation.
- Annual Meeting: For companies with at least 15 employees, the Competent Physician appointed by Frareg will organize the annual meeting, in accordance with current legislation, involving the RSPP, RLS, and the Employer.
3. Training
Another crucial aspect is the provision of mandatory training courses for all workers. Specifically, the training courses required for each type of activity include:
- General training: A 4-hour basic course aimed at all employees, regardless of their duties. This course does not require renewal.
- Specific training: Divided into three levels (low, medium, and high), lasting 4, 8, or 12 hours respectively. Specific training is related to the risks associated with the worker’s duties and must be renewed every five years with a 6-hour refresher course.
- Fire safety training: Divided into three risk levels (low, medium, and high), with a respective duration of 4, 8, or 16 hours. All companies with a physical location are required to appoint a team of Fire Safety Officers, the number of which depends on the company’s workforce.
- First Aid training: Similarly, for First Aid, companies with a physical location must appoint a team of First Aid Officers. The course duration is 12 or 16 hours, depending on the company’s classification in categories A, B, or C.