Regulations concerning the Performance of Work

Part 1: Introductory provisions
Chapter 1. Introductory provisions
The regulations apply to the performance of work, the use of work equipment and the technical requirements of the work equipment.
Chapter 2 of the regulations concerning a substance index does not apply to hazardous chemicals in transit through or stored as transit goods in Norway unless they are subject to treatment or processing.
Chapter 26 of the regulations concerning work under water or under increased ambient pressure does not apply to:
a.
members of the Police Emergency Response Unit, when diving is necessary in order to perform duties assigned to the police;
b.
conscripts and military service personnel in the Norwegian Armed Forces who carry out diving as a military activity.
The provisions on diving certificates in Chapter 26 do not apply to research and healthcare personnel who must carry out necessary work in pressurised hyperbaric chambers.
Sections 4-4, 13-1, 13-2, 13-3, 13-4, 25-1 and 27-4, and Chapters 5, 17, 20, 24, 26, 28 and 29 of the regulations do not apply to offshore petroleum activities or activities at onshore facilities as stated in Section 6(e) of the Framework Regulations. Sections 3-23. 3-24, 3-27, 14-1, 14-2, 14-3, 14-4, 14-5, 14-6, 14-7 and 14-10 of the Regulations do not apply to offshore petroleum activities.
The regulations apply to Svalbard:
a.
except for the provisions of Sections 10-1 to 10-3 and Chapter 13;
b.
unless otherwise provided for in the Regulations of 18 January 1993 No 33 relating to the coal mines on Svalbard.
1.
Employers shall ensure that the provisions of these regulations are implemented.
2.
The provisions of these regulations shall, where applicable, also be complied with by:
a.
safety representatives and working environment committees;
b.
family-run farms in agriculture;
c.
undertakings with no employees
-
that use work equipment;
-
that handle asbestos and asbestos-containing materials in their work;
-
in the building and construction industry;
-
in agriculture;
-
that carry out work under water or under increased ambient pressure;
-
that can be exposed to biological agents during their work, except for the requirements relating to keeping records and medical examinations;
-
that can be exposed to chemicals in their work, except for the requirements for an emergency response plan, medical examination, relocation and keeping records of employees exposed to carcinogenic, mutagenic or reprotoxic chemicals and lead.
3.
The provisions of Chapter 26 on health and safety during work under water or under increased ambient pressure do not apply to:
a.
conscripts and military service personnel in the Norwegian Armed Forces who carry out diving as a military activity;
b.
members of the Police Emergency Response Unit when the diving is carried out as part of the service;
c.
research and health personnel who work in decompression chambers.
For the purpose of these regulations, the following definitions shall apply:
1.
work premises: rooms that the undertaking uses in connection with the work such as workrooms, personnel rooms, access areas etc.;
2.
work equipment: technical installations etc. such as machinery, lifting accessories, safety components, containers, means of transport, appliances, installations, tools and any other object used in connection with the production of a product or the performance of work;
3.
load-lifting equipment: plant designed for lifting and lowering operations;
4.
asbestos: the fibrous, crystalline silicate minerals chrysotile (white asbestos), crocidolite (blue asbestos), amosite (brown asbestos), anthophyllite asbestos, tremolite asbestos and actinolite asbestos;
5.
wastewater treatment plant: wastewater networks, including pump stations, treatment plants and pipelines for carrying away residual water;
6.
standby diver: a diver who is ready to provide sufficiently rapid assistance to a diver underwater in a hazardous or emergency;
7.
rock work: all forms of rock breaking, including work on inspection, scaling and securing rock; Includes loading and transport of blasted rock within the workplace;
8.
biological limit value: The limit to the concentration of a given agent in a biological environment, its metabolites or an effect indicator;
9.
biological factors: microorganisms, including genetically modified organisms, cell cultures, human endoparasites and prions that can induce infections, allergies or toxic effects in humans;
Microorganisms mean: a microbiological unit, cellular or non-cellular, able to replicate or transfer genetic material;
Cell culture means: the result of in vitro cultivation of cells from multicellular organisms;
10.
use of work equipment: work operations such as starting, stopping, installation and dismantling, transportation, use, monitoring, inspection, repair, maintenance, care and cleaning;
11.
decompression: relieving increased pressure to restore normal pressure;
12.
diving bell: a compression chamber designed and equipped to transfer divers between the work site and the surface decompression chamber;
13.
diving operation: work under increased ambient pressure, under water or in a decompression chamber, where the diver is supplied with breathing gas;
14.
umbilical: the breathing gas hose, communication cable and, if applicable, safety line, bundled into a single unit,
15.
electromagnetic field: static electric, static magnetic and time variable electric, magnetic and electromagnetic fields with frequencies up to 300 GHz.
16.
danger zone: any area where the safety of employees may be at risk due to the nature of the work, including any area in or around work equipment;
17.
hazardous chemical: Chemicals that can constitute a risk to the health and safety of employees;
-
all chemicals that meet the criteria for classification pursuant to the Regulations of 16 June, No. 622 on the classification, labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures (CLP). This applies regardless of whether the chemical is classified in accordance with said Regulations. Substances that are harmful to the external environment only, do not fall under the scope of these regulations.
-
any chemical substance for which limit values have been adopted,
-
any other chemical that may constitute a risk to the health and safety of employees.
18.
fibre: a particle longer than 5 μm, with a diameter smaller than or equal to 3 μm, and with a length-to-width ratio greater than or equal to 3:1;
19.
reproductive harm:
-
harm to a person's reproductive ability (reprotoxicity) in that the ability to produce healthy and normal children is wholly or partially, permanently or transiently impaired as a consequence of exposure in the working environment,
-
harm or disease suffered by the child because of prenatal exposure or exposure through breastfeeding,
20.
reprotoxic substance: Substances or mixtures that meet the criteria for classification as reprotoxic as laid down in Regulations No 622 of 16 June 2012 on the classification, labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures (CLP) cf. Regulation (EC) No. 1272/2008 in Annex I;
21.
reprotoxic substance without a lower threshold: A reprotoxic substance that does not have a safe level of exposure and which is labelled accordingly in the Regulations concerning Action and Limit Values Annex I;
22.
reprotoxic substance with a lower threshold: A reprotoxic substance that has a safe level of exposure, where exposure below this level does not entail any risk to health of employees, and which is labelled accordingly in the Regulations concerning Action and Limit Values Annex I;
23.
test dive: a diving operation carried out in connection with research or development work, where the dive is intended to produce results that provide a basis for demonstrating the effect on divers or the safety of diving operations;
24.
excavation work: digging ditches, shafts and other excavation pits in the soil;
25.
limit value: a value for exposure that must not be exceeded;
26.
suspended work platform: a freely moving rope-suspended mechanically operated work platform;
27.
hand signals: movements or positioning of arms and hands, in a coded form, in order to guide persons carrying out work that can entail a risk to employees;
28.
non-coherent optical radiation: artificial optical radiation, except for laser radiation;
29.
containment of biological agents: barriers used to prevent biological agents from coming into contact with people or the environment;
30.
ionising radiation: x-radiation, particle radiation, or radiation from a radioactive substance within the wavelength range 0.01-10 nm;
31.
chemicals: elements, chemical compounds or mixtures thereof, whether they occur naturally or are manufactured or are used or released in connection with any work operation, regardless of whether they were intentionally manufactured. This applies irrespective of whether the chemical is available on the market;
32.
climbing scaffold: a mechanically operated work platform that moves vertically in guide rails;
33.
bell run (diving): a bell run is the time that passes from the bell is disconnected from the surface habitat until it is reconnected;
34.
carcinogenic chemicals and processes: substances or mixtures that meet the criteria for classification as carcinogenic pursuant to the Regulations of 16 June 2012 No 622 on the classification, labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures (CLP); cf. Regulation (EC) No. 1272/2008 in Annex 1. The following processes or chemicals released during these processes are also regarded as carcinogenic:
-
production of auramine,
-
work involving exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), which occur in soot, tar or pitch,
-
work involving exposure to dust, fumes or mist emitted during calcination and electrolytic processing of nickel from ore,
-
highly acidic processes to produce 2-propanol,
-
work that entails exposure to hardwood dust
The above list is not exhaustive and does not preclude that other processes may be regarded as carcinogenic.
35.
artificial optical radiation: electromagnetic radiation of a wavelength range between 100 nm and 1 mm that is not emitted from the sun. The spectrum of optical radiation is divided into ultraviolet radiation, visible radiation (light) and infrared radiation, Ultraviolet radiation: optical radiation of wavelength range between 100 nm and 400 nm. The range is further divided into UVA (315-400 nm), UVB (280-315 nm) and UVC (100-280 nm), Visible radiation: optical radiation of wavelength range between 380 nm and 780 nm, Infrared radiation: optical radiation of wavelength range between 780 nm and 1 mm. The range is further divided into IR-A (780-1400 nm), IR-B (1400-3000 nm) and IR-C (3000 nm-1 mm);
36.
laser (light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation): any device that can be made to produce or amplify electromagnetic radiation in the optical radiation wavelength range by a process of controlled stimulated emission;
37.
laser radiation: optical radiation from a laser;
38.
lifts and stackers for goods: forklifts and similar motorised mobile work equipment for lifting, moving and stacking;
39.
lifting appliance: components or equipment not mounted on the machine, which make it possible to grip the load, and which are placed either between the machine and the load or on the load itself, or which are intended to be an integrated part of the load;
40.
earth-moving machine: an engine-powered machine designed to lift or transport materials, i.e. earth, sand, rock etc., for example, a dumper, road planer, excavator, bulldozer, dump truck, scraper or backhoe loader;
41.
saturation dive: a dive that lasts so long that the maximum amount of breathing gas is dissolved in the body;
42.
mobile work equipment: a technical device that moves on wheels, crawler tracks etc., with or without its own propulsion;
43.
mutagenic chemicals: substances or mixtures that meet the criteria for being classified as mutagenic pursuant to the Regulations of 16 June 2012 No 622 on the classification, labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures (CLP); cf. Regulation (EC) No. 1272/2008 Annex I;
44.
surface-supplied diving: a diving operation where the diver works under increased ambient pressure and is supplied with breathing gas from the surface;
45.
personal protective equipment: all equipment, including accessories to the equipment, which is worn or carried by an employee to protect the employee from one or more hazards that can threaten his or her safety and health during the work. Personal protective equipment does not include:
-
normal work clothes and uniforms that are not especially intended to protect employees’ health and safety,
-
emergency and rescue equipment,
-
self-defence equipment,
-
portable equipment for tracking and detection of hazardous and harmful agents,
-
personal protective equipment used in accordance with requirements set out in the Road Traffic Act;
46.
public safety diver: a diver whose task is to rescue a person in the water during the period when lifesaving can be hoped for;
47.
risk: a function of the probability of an undesirable incident taking place and the consequences for the employees’ life or health;
48.
scuba diving: diving where the diver carries a self-contained underwater breathing apparatus;
49.
safety signs and signalling: the use of signs, colours, light signals, acoustic signals, verbal communication or hand signals to refer to a particular object, activity or situation and that provides information or instructions about how people should act in different situations concerning safety and health in the workplace. The definition does not include signs and signalling regulated by other legislation or pursuant to regulations relating to road, rail, air or sea transport or transport by inland waterways;
50.
pointed or sharp objects: objects that can cut, pierce the skin and cause injury and/or infections;
51.
infection risk group: classification of live biological agents according to the infection risk they represent pursuant to Section 6-1 of the Regulations concerning Action and Limit Values;
52.
action value: an exposure value that requires measures to be implemented to reduce the health risk to a minimum;
53.
compression period for diving: the period for which a diver is under increased ambient pressure, reckoned from the start of compression in a hyperbaric chamber until decompression is completed, also including the ‘surface interval’ in connection with surface decompression;
54.
hot work: work where heat is used, such as open flames, hot surfaces or ignition sparks. Hot work also includes work operations such as welding, soldering, torch cutting and metal grinding etc. that can also give rise to hazardous gases.
Part 2: Requirements for work involving chemical and biological risk factors
Chapter 2. Substance index
The employer shall establish a substance index of hazardous chemicals that can constitute a health hazard, including those that are formed during processes within the undertaking. The substance index shall be established before the hazardous chemicals are formed, produced, packed, used or stored by the undertaking.
For the three groups stated below, the substance index shall contain the following information:
Group 1) Pursuant to the Regulations of 30 May 2008 No 516 on registration, evaluation, authorisation and restriction of chemicals (the REACH Regulations), safety data sheets and any appendices thereto shall be available for chemicals that fall under the scope of Article 31 of and Annex II to Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 concerning the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH).
Group 2) For hazardous chemicals that do not belong to groups 1 or 3, product information sheets shall be available that, as a minimum, contain the following information:
a.
name,
b.
composition,
c.
information about the supplier,
d.
physical, chemical and harmful properties,
e.
toxicological data,
f.
risk factors,
g.
preventive safety measures, and
h.
first aid treatment.
Group 3) For hazardous biological material, product information sheets shall be prepared that, as a minimum, contain the following information:
a.
name,
b.
information about the supplier,
c.
harmful properties / toxicological data,
d.
information about any risk of infection,
e.
risk factors,
f.
preventive safety measures, and
g.
first aid treatment.
If it is not relevant or technically possible to provide any or all the information required under this provision, the grounds for this shall be stated in the substance index.
Chapter 3. Work where chemicals may be a risk to the health and safety of employees
The employer shall map and document the presence of chemicals, including fibrous asbestos dust, and assess any risk relating to the health and safety of employees that may be associated with these chemicals.
The risk assessment shall pay particular attention to the following:
a.
the hazardous properties of the chemicals,
b.
the supplier's information about health, environmental and safety risks,
c.
the conditions in the workplace where the chemicals are present,
d.
the number of chemicals and how they are used,
e.
whether the work processes and the work equipment are appropriate,
f.
the expected number of exposed employees,
g.
the type, level, duration, frequency and routes of exposure,
h.
limit values,
i.
the effect of implemented and planned preventive measures,
j.
the conclusions of completed health surveys, and
k.
injuries, diseases, work accidents and near accidents.
Further information must be obtained, as necessary.
A new risk assessment shall be conducted for every temporary workplace.
The employer shall ensure that employees and safety representatives receive training in the following:
a.
hazardous chemicals that are present or may be present in the workplace; the names of these chemicals; the risk they represent to the employees’ health and safety; and applicable limit values for these chemicals,
b.
use of the substance index,
c.
conducted risk assessments and significant changes to the same,
d.
correct use of the work equipment employed,
e.
necessary protective measures for the safe execution of the work, and
f.
handling of operational disturbances and possible emergencies.
If work is to be performed that may entail a risk of exposure to carcinogenic, mutagenic or reprotoxic chemicals, training must be repeated on a regular basis.
Undertakings with no employees shall have the equivalent knowledge.
The employer shall ensure that employees and safety representatives are kept informed about the following:
a.
hazardous chemicals that are present or may be present in the workplace, the names of these chemicals, the risk they represent to the employees’ health and safety, and the applicable limit values for these chemicals;
b.
conducted risk assessments and significant changes to same;
c.
correct use of the work equipment employed;
d.
necessary protective measures for the safe execution of the work;
e.
handling of operational disturbances and possible emergencies;
f.
the substance index.
Undertakings with no employees shall obtain the equivalent knowledge.
The employer shall ensure that health and safety risks caused by chemicals are eliminated or reduced to a completely safe level by:
a.
designing and adapting the workplace and the work to be carried out;
b.
making available suitable equipment for the execution of the work, including equipment for repairs, maintenance and cleaning;
c.
limiting the number of employees being exposed to chemicals to a minimum;
d.
limiting the level and duration of exposure to a minimum;
e.
limiting the number of chemicals in the workplace to the amount that is necessary for the work in question;
f.
implementing proper hygiene and cleaning measures.
If these measures are not sufficient, the employer shall ensure that the risk is eliminated or reduced to a completely safe level by implementing the following measures, listed in order of priority:
a.
designing proper work processes and procedures for technical control, and using appropriate equipment and materials;
b.
implementing collective protective measures at the source of the risk, including ventilation;
c.
implementing personal protective measures and distributing personal protective equipment if the exposure cannot be avoided by other means.
The employer shall ensure the following, listed in order of priority:
a.
that the working atmosphere does not contain any ignitable concentrations of flammable chemicals, that hazardous amounts of reactive chemicals are not present in the workplace, that no sources of ignition are present that can cause fire or explosion, and that there are no other conditions whereby reactive chemicals can cause hazardous situations;
b.
that the employees will not be injured should a fire or explosion occur or because of any other hazardous situation that can be caused by reactive chemicals.
Where employees may be exposed to carcinogenic, mutagenic or reprotoxic chemicals, the employer shall make sure that measures are implemented to ensure that:
a.
the employees do not eat, drink, use tobacco etc. in work premises that may be contaminated by carcinogenic, mutagenic or reprotoxic chemicals,
b.
the employees are informed about the increased risk associated with the use of tobacco,
c.
the employees are provided with suitable work clothes in addition to necessary personal protective equipment; cf. Chapter 15 of Regulations No. 1355 of 6 December 2011 concerning Organisation, Management and Employee Participation,
d.
private clothing and work clothes / personal protective equipment are stored separately in separate lockers,
e.
work clothes and personal protective equipment are washed or cleaned,
f.
containers and similar that contain contaminated work clothes / personal protective equipment are clearly labelled,
g.
work clothes and personal protective equipment that may be contaminated by carcinogenic, mutagenic or reprotoxic chemicals are not brought to mess rooms or similar, or taken home,
h.
cleaning facilities are available in or near the work premises.
The costs of the measures stated in these provisions shall not be borne by the employees.
Manufacturing, production or use of the following carcinogenic chemicals is prohibited:
a.
2-Naphthylamine and salts of 2-Naphthylamine (CAS No 91-59-8)
b.
4-Aminobiphenyl and salts of 4-Aminobiphenyl(CAS No 92-67-1)
c.
Benzidine and salts of Benzidine (CAS No 92-87-5)
d.
4-nitrobiphenyl (CAS No 92-93-3).
The prohibition in the first paragraph shall not apply if the chemical substance is present in a substance or mixture as a contaminant or by-product or as part of a waste product, provided that the concentration does not exceed 0.1% by weight.
Nor does the prohibition in the first paragraph apply if the chemical:
a.
is used for scientific research and trials, including analyses;
b.
is used in work operations intended to remove chemicals that are by-products or waste products;
c.
is used as an intermediate product in the production of the prohibited chemicals stated in the first paragraph, and for such use.
The employer shall ensure that employees are not exposed to substances as stated in the first paragraph by implementing measures to ensure that the production and use of these substances take place in a closed system from which the substances cannot be removed unless it is necessary in order to control the process or maintain the system.
If disease or other effects on health are found to exist that the medical practitioner believes may be due to exposure to hazardous chemicals in the workplace, or if the biological limit value for lead has been exceeded, the employer shall:
a.
review the risk assessment carried out pursuant to Section 3-1;
b.
take necessary action to eliminate or reduce the risk associated with working with hazardous chemicals to a completely safe level;
c.
offer suitable medical examinations to other employees who have been similarly exposed.
Chapter 4. Work with asbestos
The following work is exempt from Section 4-1:
a.
demolition, repairs and maintenance of asbestos-containing materials, including handling of asbestos-containing waste from such work. As a rule, asbestos-containing material shall be removed, but sealing, encapsulation and enclosure may be permitted in some cases. In such cases, the solutions must completely prevent the spread of asbestos fibre effectively and safely and not involve interference with the asbestos-containing material;
b.
mining and processing of rock containing a maximum of 1% asbestos by weight;
c.
sampling and analysis to determine the asbestos content of a particular material.
Undertakings carrying out demolition, repair and maintenance work on asbestos-containing materials must have permission from the Labour Inspection Authority.
The application for such permission shall include information about:
a.
how the work will be organised,
b.
which methods will be used,
c.
which protective measures will be implemented,
d.
training of employees,
e.
medical examinations of the employees, and
f.
the undertaking's experience of this kind of work.
The instructions provided in Section 4-6 shall be enclosed with the application.
Before the application is sent to the Labour Inspection Authority, it shall be submitted for comment to the safety representative(s), working environment committee and health and safety personnel of the undertaking that is to carry out the work.
Should an undertaking that has been granted permission to work with asbestos fail to perform the work safely, or otherwise act in contravention of these regulations, the Labour Inspection Authority may withdraw such permission.
The employer shall notify the Labour Inspection Authority of any work with asbestos or asbestos-containing materials. The notification shall be sent before the work starts. In the case of demolition, repair and maintenance work, the notification shall be sent well in advance and no later than one week before the work starts.
As a minimum, the notification shall supply an overview of:
a.
where the work site is located;
b.
the types and quantities of asbestos and asbestos-containing materials that will be used or handled;
c.
the activities and methods involved in the work;
d.
the number of employees involved and what training they have received;
e.
the start-up date and duration of the work;
f.
measures that will be implemented to limit the employees’ exposure to asbestos.
The form issued by the Directorate of Labour Inspection shall be used.
The employees and their representatives shall have access to the notification.
The employer shall submit a new notification if there is a probability that changes in the working conditions will lead to a material increase in exposure to fibrous asbestos dust.
The employer may only assign work with asbestos and asbestos-containing materials to employees who have received special training.
Such training shall be given by competent persons.
The instructions given shall be easy to understand and provide the employees with the necessary know-how and skills in preventive and safety work, particularly as regards:
a.
the properties and health effects of asbestos, including the risk of combining smoking and asbestos exposure;
b.
the types of products and materials that can be assumed to contain asbestos;
c.
work that can involve exposure to asbestos and the importance of preventive control measures to reduce exposure;
d.
the limit value in Section 5-1 of the Regulations concerning Action and Limit Values, cf. Annex I, and the need for control measurements of the air;
e.
safe working methods, safe control measures, safe working equipment and safe protective equipment;
f.
the purpose and the correct choice of respiratory protection, the limitations of such respiratory protection and how to use it correctly;
g.
emergency procedures;
h.
procedure for complete cleaning;
i.
waste handling;
j.
the requirement for medical examinations under Section 4-11.
The training shall include practical exercises.
The training shall be adapted to the work to be carried out. It shall be given regularly and when necessary, as a consequence of developments in technology.
The employer shall bear the costs of the training.
The employee representatives shall be informed about the content of the training.
The exposure of employees to fibrous asbestos dust shall be reduced to a minimum, particularly using the following measures:
a.
the number of employees who are or can be exposed to fibrous asbestos dust shall be limited to a minimum;
b.
asbestos and asbestos-containing materials shall be handled separately from other activities;
c.
the work processes shall be designed to prevent the formation of asbestos dust or, if this is impossible, be designed to prevent agitation and dispersion of the asbestos dust. In connection with the indoor handling of asbestos or asbestos-containing materials, negative pressure zones shall be established, if necessary, in order to prevent the spread of asbestos dust to the surrounding. The establishment of negative pressure shall be documented;
d.
where local exhaust ventilation is used, the exhaust air shall not be returned to the work premises but cleaned and discharged to the open air. The exhaust air from a mobile vacuum cleaner used to absorb fibrous asbestos dust may be returned, however, provided that the air is cleaned so that at least 99.99% of the asbestos dust is removed;
e.
regular and effective cleaning and maintenance must be possible of all premises and all equipment used in handling asbestos;
f.
asbestos and asbestos-containing materials that emit asbestos dust shall be stored and transported in suitable closed packaging that is sufficiently protected against crushing, tearing etc.;
g.
asbestos waste shall be collected and removed from the workplace immediately in suitable closed packaging and stored in closed lockable containers. This does not apply to natural rock materials that contain asbestos. The packaging and container shall be clearly marked with the following text: ‘Inneholder asbest. Innånding av støv fra dette materialet kan forårsake kreft. Bruk egnet verneutstyr’ (‘Contains asbestos. Inhalation of dust from this material can cause cancer. Use suitable protective equipment’). Such waste shall then be handled in accordance with Chapter 11 of the Regulations of 1 June 2004 No 930 relating to the recovery and treatment of waste (the Waste Regulations).
Chapter 5. Hot work
The employer shall ensure that employees carrying out hot work and the safety representative receive training in
a.
working methods;
b.
use of work equipment;
c.
use of personal protective equipment.
The employer shall ensure that employees carrying out hot work and the safety representative are kept informed about the following:
a.
health hazards and the risk of accidents;
b.
necessary protective measures;
c.
the results of measurements of the working atmosphere;
d.
any specific measures that are implemented at any time.
In order to avoid fire and explosion in gas equipment, the employer shall ensure that the following equipment is used for welding, thermal cutting, soldering and thermal spraying:
-
blowpipes fitted with check valves on all hoses connected to the handle
-
oxygen regulators fitted with flashback arrestor
-
fuel gas regulators fitted with flashback arrestor
-
gas hoses and hose couplings specially designed for the purpose
-
acetylene valves, nozzles and gas lines of material not containing more than 70% copper.
Chapter 6. Work in surroundings that may entail exposure to biological agents
For every activity, the employer shall assess the risk of employees being exposed to biological agents. If the activity involves a risk to the employees’ health and safety, the exposure shall be mapped, and consideration shall be given to how the exposure occurs. Both the risk of infection and other health risks shall be considered. This shall serve as the basis for a risk assessment of the conditions by the employer.
The risk assessment shall be conducted based on all available information, including the following in particular:
-
biological agents that may be present;
-
toxins, allergens or other harmful substances that may originate from the biological agents;
-
the infection risk groups the biological agents belong to;
-
information about diseases caused by the biological agents that the employees can contract in connection with their work, whether infectious, allergic or toxic in nature;
-
recommendations from the competent authority regarding special protective and safety measures that should be implemented in order to protect employees who are or can be exposed to biological agents in their working environment;
-
the probability that the biological agents will cause harm to the health of employees;
-
awareness that a disease identified in one employee may be directly linked to that employee's work; and
-
the risk of injury or infection from biological agents because of handling pointed or sharp objects.
The Labour Inspection Authority shall be notified at least 30 days before the date on which an undertaking starts to use biological agents in risk groups 2, 3 or 4.
A new notification shall be submitted in the following cases:
a.
when biological agents belonging to a risk group other than the one that has previously been notified are to be used;
b.
in connection with the use for the first time of each subsequent biological agent in risk group 4;
c.
in connection with the use for the first time of each subsequent biological agent classified in risk group 3 by the employer in accordance with Section 2-1;
d.
when material changes are made to processes or procedures with a bearing on health, the environment and safety in the workplace, which renders a previous notification obsolete.
Laboratories engaged in diagnostics in connection with biological agents in infection risk group 4 shall notify of their own activities only.
Notifications under this section shall contain the following information:
a.
the name, address and organisation number of the undertaking or facility;
b.
the name of the person who is responsible for health, safety and the environment in the workplace, and his or her professional qualifications;
c.
the name of the safety representative / senior safety representative;
d.
the results of the risk assessment conducted in accordance with Section 6-1;
e.
which biological agent the notification concerns;
f.
planned protective and safety measures.
The notification shall be signed by the employer and safety representative / senior safety representative. The safety representative / senior safety representative may submit their own opinion.
The employer shall ensure that employees who are assigned work where they are or can be exposed to biological agents are given the necessary practical and theoretical training and instruction in the work in advance so that exposure can be avoided as far as possible or reduced to a minimum. The training must include, in particular:
a.
information about the risk assessment that has been conducted and any material changes to it;
b.
necessary protective measures;
c.
hygiene requirements;
d.
use of personal safety equipment, including protective clothing;
e.
information about the risk of infection from biological agents when handling pointed or sharp objects.
Chapter 7. Work where there is a risk of reproductive harm

Chapter 8. Work at wastewater treatment plants

If work is to be carried out in a sump, pool or similar, wastewater and sludge must be removed from the work site.

Chapter 9. Work with cytostatics
Part 3: Requirements for work under exposure to physical risk factors
Chapter 10. Requirements for the use of work equipment
Documented safety training in accordance with Section 10-2 shall be provided in the form of certified safety training for the following work equipment:
-
bridge cranes and overhead travelling cranes where their use entails a risk of harm to life or health
-
tower cranes
-
mobile cranes with a capacity of more than 2 tm
-
portal cranes
-
cranes with a capacity of more than 2 tm, mounted on a lorry or lorry trailer
-
lifts and stackers for goods, with a permanent operator's seat on the vehicle
-
earth-moving machines with engine power greater than 15 kW (20.4 hp)
-
offshore cranes.
The employer shall ensure that necessary information is provided about the safe use of the work equipment that is provided for the employees in their work.
In particular, the employer shall ensure that the employees are kept informed about the following:
a.
the risks they are exposed to when using the work equipment, including risks associated with possible irregularities;
b.
precautions that, based on experience, they need to take when using the work equipment;
c.
hazards caused by nearby work equipment;
d.
hazards caused by changes to nearby work equipment.
It must only be possible to start work equipment by the deliberate use of control devices that are intended for the purpose.
The same shall apply to:
a.
restart after a stop, regardless of the reason for the stop;
b.
control of a material change in the operating conditions, for example, speed, pressure etc., unless such restart or change is of no risk to exposed employees.
The requirements in the previous paragraph do not apply to automatic work equipment if the restart or change in the working conditions is an integral part of the normal work operation.
Work equipment shall have control devices that make it possible to bring it to a complete and safe stop.
Each workstation must be fitted with a control device capable of stopping some or all the work equipment depending on the nature of the risk so that the work equipment is safe.
The stop order for the equipment shall have priority over the start order. When the work equipment or its dangerous parts have been stopped, the energy supply to the actuators concerned must be switched off.
If there is a possibility that employees can be injured as a result of physical contact with moving parts of the work equipment, the work equipment shall be equipped with protective guards or devices to prevent access to the danger zones or to stop the movement of the dangerous parts before access to the danger zones is granted.
Protective devices must:
a.
have a robust structure;
b.
not give rise to any additional risk;
c.
not be easy to move or render inoperative;
d.
be located at an adequate distance from the danger zone;
e.
not unnecessarily restrict the view of the work equipment's work operation;
f.
not obstruct necessary work such as installation, replacement of parts and maintenance. Access shall be limited to the area where such work is to be carried out and, if possible, not involve the removal of protective guards or devices.
Chapter 11. Facilitating the use of work equipment
If the use of work equipment can entail a particular risk of harm to life or health, the employer shall see to the implementation of necessary measures to ensure that:
a.
use of the work equipment is limited to the persons who have been assigned to use it, and who have received necessary training;
b.
persons who are to carry out repairs, alterations or maintenance are specially designated to carry out such work; and
c.
work equipment to be repaired is not put into service if the defect, wear, tear or damage can entail a risk during use.
Chapter 12. Inspection and maintenance of work equipment and plant
Installation, inspection, maintenance and repairs of work equipment shall only be carried out by persons who have received necessary theoretical and practical training and instruction in such work.
If the safety of the work equipment depends on the conditions under which it is installed, the inspection shall be carried out by qualified personnel in order to ensure that:
-
the work equipment has been correctly installed and works as intended;
-
health and safety conditions are maintained; and
-
degradation can be detected and remedied in good time.
Procedures for systematic inspection and maintenance of the following must always be in place:
-
necessary and suitable safety equipment to ensure that it is always ready for use and in working order;
-
existing systems for energy distribution on building and construction sites or other temporary workplaces. The systems shall be identified, inspected and clearly marked before a building and construction site is established;
-
mechanical and electrical equipment and plant in connection with rock work, and with any testing of mechanical and electrical equipment and systems, including ventilation systems;
-
the ventilation function. It shall be regularly measured and recorded if faults are associated with risk, for example in connection with rock work;
-
combustion engines for underground use in connection with rock work; see Section 27-17;
-
high-pressure jetting equipment;
-
scaffolds; see Section 17-8;
-
coffer dams and caissons for use during excavation work.
Chapter 13. Work equipment subject to a requirement for inspection by a competent enterprise
The employer shall ensure that the following work equipment undergoes inspection by a competent enterprise:
-
work equipment for lifting suspended loads;
-
lifting accessories;
-
lifts and stackers for goods;
-
earth-moving machines with engine power greater than 15 kW (20.4 hp);
-
work equipment on salvage vehicles;
-
work equipment with a work platform or basket designed for lifting or transporting persons, and which is controlled from the platform or basket;
-
suspended work platforms;
-
climbing scaffolds for heights exceeding 3 metres;
-
studio and stage rigging systems;
-
building site lifts; and
-
slipways.
Inspection of work equipment by a competent enterprise as stated in Section 13-1 shall be carried out:
-
every 12 months;
-
when the work equipment has not been used for the past 6 months and putting it back into service may be associated with a risk to life or health;
-
when more frequent inspections are required because of the environment in which the work equipment is located;
-
when the work equipment has been significantly overloaded, and
-
following major repairs or alterations.
Inspections by an enterprise of competence can be carried out at more infrequent intervals when it can be documented that this will not entail any risk to life or health and the expert finds that it is completely safe.
When the safe use of work equipment is dependent on the installation or assembly of the equipment, the employer shall ensure that an inspection is carried out by a competent enterprise before it is first used and each time it is installed or assembled on a new site. The inspection shall ensure that the work equipment is correctly installed or erected and works as intended. This applies in particular to:
-
foundations for and erection of portal and bridge cranes;
-
foundations for and assembly of work equipment for loading and offloading ships;
-
foundations for and erection of tower cranes;
-
installation of transverse cranes and hoists tracks/rails;
-
installation of pillar and wall slewing cranes;
-
installation of suspended work platforms,
-
assembly of climbing scaffolds for heights exceeding 3 metres;
-
assembly and installation of building site lifts; and
-
retrofitting of cranes with a capacity exceeding 2 tm on vehicles and other mobile plants.
Chapter 14. Work that can entail exposure to noise or mechanical vibrations
The employer shall map and document the extent to which the employees are exposed to noise and vibrations and assess any risks to their health and safety that such exposure might entail.
The scope of assessments and noise measurements shall enable the determination of the noise exposure suffered by employees compared with the lower action values; see the Regulations concerning Action and Limit Values.
In the case of vibrations, the daily exposure values shall be mapped by recording work execution with particular emphasis on working methods, the intensity of vibrations and vibration information of relevance to the specific work situations, including information from the equipment manufacturer. When necessary, the employer shall carry out measurements of vibration exposure.
The risk assessment shall pay particular attention to the following:
a.
the level, type and duration of the exposure and exposure to impulse noise such as impacts and bursts, variations in the vibration level and recurring bursts;
b.
effects on the health and safety of employees who are particularly exposed to risk;
c.
insofar as it is possible, any effects on the health and safety of employees as a result of the combined effect of noise and chemical substances and noise and vibrations at work;
d.
how the noise affects the possibility of recognising warning signals or other sounds that must be audible in order to reduce the risk of an accident;
e.
indirect effects on the employees’ health and safety due to interactions between vibrations and the work site or the work equipment;
f.
action values and limit values for daily exposure to vibrations; see Chapters 2 and 3 of the Regulations concerning Action and Limit Values;
g.
the manufacturers’ information about the noise and vibration level of the work equipment;
h.
whether alternative work equipment exists that generates less noise and exposure to vibrations;
i.
exposure to noise and whole-body vibrations other than during ordinary working hours for which the employer is responsible;
j.
insofar as it is possible, relevant information from medical examinations and other published information;
k.
increased health risk because of the combined effect of vibrations and other factors in the workplace; and
l.
availability of hearing protection that provides sufficient attenuation.
The employer shall ensure that employees who may be exposed to noise or mechanical vibrations and the safety representative receive training in
a.
safe working methods that reduce exposure and the risk of harm to health;
b.
when it is necessary to use hearing protection and how it should be used.
The employer shall ensure that employees and safety representatives are kept informed about relevant risks relating to noise if they are exposed to noise levels equal to or exceeding LEX,8h= 80 dB or LpC,peak= 130 dB, and about risks relating to vibrations if the risk assessment shows that the employees may be exposed to vibrations.
The employer shall ensure that employees and safety representatives are kept informed about the following:
a.
the risk assessment that has been carried out and the measures that have been implemented;
b.
action and limit values for exposure;
c.
the measurement results;
d.
risks relating to noise and vibrations, how to recognise signs of harm to health and how to report them;
e.
conditions under which they are entitled to a medical examination, and the purpose of the medical examination;
f.
any risk of harm to health arising from the use of the work equipment.
The employer shall implement necessary measures based on the health and safety risks identified in the risk assessment. Among other things, the employer shall ensure that any risk because of noise is eliminated or reduced to the lowest possible level by:
a.
considering alternative working methods that involve less noise exposure;
b.
choosing appropriate work equipment to reduce noise to a minimum;
c.
designing and arranging the workplace and work premises, for example, so that technical devices are assembled, positioned and used so as not to give rise to unnecessary noise;
d.
technical noise reduction measures to reduce noise transmission through the air, for example by use of screens, encasements and sound absorbents;
e.
technical noise reduction measures to reduce structural noise and vibrations through balancing, dampening or isolation of sound sources;
f.
systematic maintenance of work equipment, the workplace and means of noise attenuation;
g.
arranging the work to limit the exposure time and intensity, with sufficient noise-free rest periods;
h.
ensuring medical examinations.
The employer shall adapt these measures to take into account employees who may be particularly exposed to accident or health hazards.
If the action values for mechanical vibrations are exceeded, the employer shall implement technical and organisational measures based on the health and safety risks identified in the risk assessment, by:
a.
considering alternative working methods that involve less exposure to vibrations;
b.
choosing proper work equipment of good ergonomic design concerning the work to be carried out, to reduce exposure to vibrations;
c.
designing and adapting the workplace and the work to be carried out;
d.
ensuring that the employees have access to additional equipment or technical aids that reduce the risk of harm from vibrations;
e.
systematic maintenance of work equipment and the workplace;
f.
limiting the exposure time and intensity;
g.
having expedient work schedules and sufficient rest periods;
h.
providing work clothes for employees exposed to dampness and cold.
The employer shall adapt these measures to take into account employees who may be particularly exposed to accident or health hazards.
If the medical examination identifies health impairments or other adverse health effects that are due to mechanical vibrations or noise in the workplace or that are a combined effect of noise and other factors, the employer shall:
a.
consider the causes of the health impairment;
b.
revise and update the risk assessment;
c.
take account of the advice of competent medical personnel or public authorities;
d.
take necessary action to eliminate or reduce the risk associated with work that exposes employees to noise or mechanical vibrations;
e.
offer appropriate medical examinations to other employees who have been similarly exposed.
Chapter 15. Ionising radiation

Chapter 16. Artificial optical radiation
The employer shall map and document the extent to which the employees are exposed to artificial optical radiation and assess all and any risks relating to their health and safety associated with artificial optical radiation. The risk assessment shall include assessment, calculation and measurement of exposure.
The risk assessment shall pay particular attention to the following:
a.
the level, wavelength range and duration of exposure in connection with artificial optical radiation;
b.
the exposure limit values provided for in Section 4-2 of the Regulations concerning Action and Limit Values;
c.
information from manufacturers of artificial sources of optical radiation and related work equipment;
d.
any effects on the health and safety of employees belonging to particularly sensitive risk groups;
e.
effects on the employees’ health and safety due to interactions in the workplace between artificial optical radiation and chemical substances that affect photosensitivity;
f.
indirect effects, for example, temporary blinding and visual disturbances, explosion or fire;
g.
the existence of replacement equipment designed to reduce the levels of exposure to artificial optical radiation;
h.
relevant information from health surveys and other public information;
i.
exposure to artificial optical radiation from multiple sources; and
j.
the classification of laser equipment defined in accordance with the relevant IEC standard, and artificial optical radiation that can cause damage similar to that of a class 3B or 4 laser, risk classification of non-coherent optical sources or other similar classification.
The employer shall assess the levels of artificial optical radiation from sources of radiation to which the employees may be exposed. If necessary, the levels of the artificial optical radiation shall be calculated and/or measured.
Such assessments, calculations and/or measurements shall be planned and carried out by personnel with relevant competence and be repeated at suitable intervals. A new assessment shall be carried out if changes affect the exposure of employees, and new calculations and/or measurements shall be carried out if necessary.
When measuring artificial optical radiation, the method chosen shall be in accordance with the standards of
1.
the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) relating to laser radiation, and
2.
the recommendations of the International Commission on Illumination (CIE) and the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) relating to artificial optical radiation, except laser radiation.
Exposure situations that are not covered by these standards and recommendations shall be assessed, calculated or measured in accordance with scientifically based international or national guidelines.
The data provided by equipment manufacturers shall be considered in the assessment where the equipment is covered by applicable EU directives.
The employer shall ensure that employees who may be exposed to artificial optical radiation and the safety representative receive training in
a.
safe work procedures and working methods to reduce the risk of exposure;
b.
correct use of proper personal protective equipment.
The employer shall ensure that employees and safety representatives are kept informed about the following:
a.
the conducted risk assessment and the measures implemented;
b.
the exposure limit values;
c.
assessment, calculation and measurement as stated in Section 16-2;
d.
how to detect and report harmful effects of exposure;
e.
conditions under which the employees are entitled to a medical examination, and the purpose of the medical examination;
f.
potential harm to health associated with artificial optical radiation.
The employer shall implement necessary measures based on the health and safety risks identified in the risk assessment. The employer shall ensure that any risk arising from artificial optical radiation is eliminated or reduced to the lowest possible level.
In order to reduce exposure, the conducted risk assessment shall serve as the basis for drawing up an action plan containing technical and/or organisational measures. In particular, the following shall be considered:
a.
alternative working methods;
b.
choice of expedient work equipment to ensure a minimum of artificial optical radiation;
c.
technical devices to reduce artificial optical radiation, including the use of shielding, encasements etc.;
d.
systematic maintenance of work equipment, the workplace and work premises;
e.
design and layout of workplaces and work premises
f.
limitation of the duration and level of exposure;
g.
the availability of appropriate personal protective equipment;
h.
user manuals from equipment manufacturers;
i.
specific measures targeting employees who belong to sensitive risk groups; and
j.
implementation of medical examinations in accordance with Section 16-7.
The employer shall adapt these measures to take into account employees who may be particularly exposed to accidents and health hazards.
The employer shall ensure that the employees are offered suitable medical examinations, where:
a.
exposure to artificial optical radiation exceeds the limit values provided for in Section 4-2 of the Regulations concerning Action and Limit Values; or
b.
employees have a known disease that is the result of exposure to artificial optical radiation; or
c.
the risk assessment shows that a health risk exists.
The employer shall ensure that the risk assessment is available to the person carrying out the medical examination.
The medical examination shall be able to identify adverse health effects caused by artificial optical radiation and provide the basis for preventive measures in the undertaking.
Based on the employee's health condition and the type, level and duration of exposure, the medical practitioner shall decide the content of the examination and how frequently the employee should be examined.
The employee shall be informed about the result of the medical examination. The employee shall be informed of any need for medical examinations after the exposure has stopped.
If the medical examination identifies health impairments or other adverse health effects that are due to artificial optical radiation, the employer shall:
a.
consider the causes of the health impairment;
b.
revise and update the risk assessment;
c.
implement measures as necessary to remove or reduce the risks involved in work where employees are exposed to artificial optical radiation, including to take account of the advice of competent health personnel or public authorities;
d.
relocate employees; and
e.
offer proper medical examinations to other employees who have been similarly exposed.
Chapter 16 A. Electromagnetic field
The employer shall ascertain and document to what extent employees are exposed to electromagnetic fields and assess any health and safety risks associated with electromagnetic fields. Such exposure assessment, calculations or measurement shall be included in the risk assessment.
The risk assessment shall pay particular attention to:
a.
the level, frequency range and exposure time in connection with electromagnetic fields,
b.
action and limit values for exposure laid down in Section 4-3 of the Regulations concerning Action and Limit Values,
c.
information from manufacturers of electromagnetic radiation sources and related work equipment,
d.
any effects on the health and safety of employees belonging to particularly sensitive risk groups,
e.
any direct biophysical effects,
f.
indirect effects,
g.
accessibility of alternative equipment constructed to reduce the exposure level to electromagnetic fields,
h.
relevant information from medical examinations and other publicly available information,
i.
exposure to electromagnetic fields from several sources and,
j.
coexposure to fields with multiple frequencies.
The employer shall ensure that employees who may be exposed to electromagnetic fields and the safety representative shall receive training in:
a.
safe work procedures and working methods to reduce the risk of exposure
b.
correct use of proper personal protective equipment.
The employer shall ensure that employees and safety representatives are kept informed about the following:
a.
the conducted risk assessment and the measures implemented
b.
exposure limit and action values
c.
assessment, calculation and measurement as stated in Section 16 A-2
d.
how to detect and report harmful effects of exposure
e.
conditions under which the employees are entitled to a medical examination, and the purpose of the medical examination
f.
potential harm to health associated with electromagnetic fields
g.
the possibility of transient symptoms and sensations associated with impact on the nervous system
h.
employees that are particularly exposed to risk.
Based on the health and safety risks identified in the risk assessment, the employer shall implement the necessary measures. The employer shall ensure that any risk caused by electromagnetic fields is removed or minimised to the lowest level possible.
In order to reduce exposure, the conducted risk assessment shall serve as the basis for drawing up an action plan containing technical and organisational measures. In particular, the following shall be taken into account:
a.
alternative working methods,
b.
choice of expedient work equipment to ensure a minimum of electromagnetic radiation,
c.
technical devices to reduce electromagnetic radiation, including the use of shielding, encasement etc.
d.
systematic maintenance of work equipment, the workplace and work premises,
e.
design and layout of workplaces and work premises,
f.
limitation of the duration of exposure,
g.
the availability of proper personal protective equipment,
h.
user manuals from equipment manufacturers,
i.
suitable restriction and access measures,
j.
procedures to handle spark discharges and contact currents using technical tools and employee training,
k.
specific measures directed at employees belonging to particularly sensitive risk groups,
l.
implementation of medical examinations in accordance with Section 16 A-7.
The employer shall adapt these measures to suit employees who may be particularly exposed to accident and health hazards.
The employer shall ensure that the employees are offered suitable medical examinations, if:
a.
exposure to electromagnetic fields exceeds the limit values provided in Section 4-3 of the Regulations concerning Action and Limit Values, or
b.
employees have a known disease that is the result of exposure to electromagnetic fields.
The employer shall ensure that the risk assessment is available to the person carrying out the medical examination.
The employee shall be informed about the result of the medical examination.
Chapter 17. Work at height
In connection with planning and performance of work at height, the employer shall assess the risk to ensure that the work can be carried out safely.
The risk assessment shall pay particular attention to the following:
a.
the height at which the work shall be carried out, including the risk that a person or objects can fall,
b.
factors of importance for the choice of fall protection measures, including the nature and duration of the work, type of supporting surface, risk of landslides, etc.,
c.
loads applied to the work equipment or work platform,
d.
ergonomic conditions,
e.
access routes and evacuation options,
f.
traffic conditions,
g.
weather conditions and,
h.
other hazards in the workplace in question
The employer shall ensure training for employees who will perform erection, removal, alteration and inspection of system scaffolds where the scaffold top deck height is from two metres and erected as standard and in accordance with the supplier's erection instructions.
The training requirement also applies to the erection, removal, alteration and inspection of rolling scaffolds from two metres.
The training shall take into account any elements of risk associated with the work and shall pay particular attention to:
a.
understanding the instructions for the erection, removal or alteration of the type of scaffolding in question,
b.
safety during the erection, removal or alteration of the type of scaffolding in question,
c.
measures to reduce the risk of falling for persons and objects,
d.
assessment of the condition of the scaffolding material to remove any unsafe scaffolding material, e.g. rot, corrosion and cracks,
e.
safety measures in the case of any changes in weather that may have a negative impact on the safety of the type of scaffolding in question,
f.
permitted loads,
g.
inspection of scaffolding and
h.
all other risks which may arise during the said erection, removal or alteration.
Before an employee is assigned independent work involving erection, removal, alteration and inspection, the employer shall ensure that the employee has had 7.5 hours of theoretical training and 7.5 hours of practical training under the supervision and guidance of a qualified person. The employer shall also ensure that the employee receives training in the use of relevant safety equipment to protect against falls during the erection, removal and alteration of scaffolding constructions, including the use of personal protective equipment (fall arrest equipment).
An employee who has completed such training according to this provision is considered a qualified person for scaffolding with a top scaffold deck height of up to five metres.
Documentation shall be issued confirming that such practical and theoretical training has been given in accordance with this provision. The safety representative and the Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority shall have access to the documentation of the practical and theoretical training.
The employer shall ensure training for employees who will perform the erection, removal, alteration and inspection of system scaffolds where the top scaffold deck is from nine metres upwards. This also applies to scaffolding that is not erected as standard according to the supplier's erection instructions, regardless of the height of the top scaffold deck.
The training shall take into account any elements of risk associated with the work and shall also, in addition to the requirements in Section 17-2, third paragraph, letters a-h, comprise:
a.
erection of scaffolding constructions in a manner ensuring health and safety, when the scaffolding includes elements that require special strength and stability calculations,
b.
understanding of the specifications for a planned scaffolding construction, including strength and stability calculations and
c.
training in safe erection, removal and alteration of scaffolding construction, concerning own health and safety during the work and the health and safety of subsequent users.
Before an employee is assigned independent work involving erection, removal, alteration and inspection, the employer shall ensure that the employee has used scaffolding for at least six months and received 36 hours of theoretical training followed by 72 hours of practical training under the supervision and guidance of a qualified person. The employer shall also ensure that the employee receives training in the use of relevant safety equipment to protect against falls during the erection, removal and alteration of scaffolding constructions, including the use of personal protective equipment (fall arrest equipment).
An employee who has completed such training according to this provision is considered a qualified person for scaffolding with a top scaffold deck height above nine metres.
Documentation shall be issued confirming that practical and theoretical training has been given in accordance with this provision. The safety representative and the Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority shall have access to the documentation of the practical and theoretical training.
The employer shall take the necessary measures based on the health and safety risks that emerge from the risk assessment. In particular, it must be ensured that:
a.
collective fall protection is prioritized over personal fall protection equipment
b.
the work equipment is dimensioned for the work to be carried out and for predictable loads
c.
scaffolding is stable and the supporting surface has sufficient load-carrying capacity to withstand the loads to which it is exposed,
d.
where possible, the work is carried out according to ergonomic principles from a suitable surface
e.
access routes are adapted according to how often the employees move around, how long the access routes are used and their height,
f.
access routes can be used for evacuation in an emergency,
g.
moving around between access routes and work platforms, scaffolding decks or gangways does not pose a further risk of falls,
h.
safety devices to prevent falling are fitted where this is necessary, and
i.
equipment is secured to prevent objects from falling and posing a risk to other people.
Collective fall protection devices can only be breached at access points where there is a ladder or stairs. When, in connection with the execution of a certain task, it is necessary to temporarily remove a collective fall protection device, safety measures shall be taken to compensate for this before the task is carried out. When the task has been temporarily or fully completed, the collective fall protection shall be reinstated.
In places where there are special elements of risk, such as traffic, live cables or a landslide risk, etc., special safety measures shall be implemented before equipment for work at height is assembled and used. Work at height shall not be carried out in weather conditions that pose a risk to the employees’ health and safety.
The employer shall ensure that a report is prepared after the inspection of the scaffolding. The report shall, as a minimum, contain the following:
a.
information about who performs the inspection and his or her employer,
b.
the owner of the scaffolding,
c.
information of any deficiencies and the deadline for rectifying them,
d.
technical information and
e.
signature of the executing inspector.
If any deficiencies are discovered that may pose a risk to the users of the scaffolding, the person responsible for the inspection shall ensure that a sign is put up to warn the users of this. In addition, physical barriers shall be erected to prevent access to the scaffolding.
The report shall be available to all employers and employees who will use the scaffolding, including the employee representatives, as well as the Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority.
Scaffolding shall carry permanent and easily visible signs with information about:
a.
the owner of the scaffolding,
b.
the scaffolder,
c.
safe load limits and
d.
a contact person with a telephone number and information about the latest inspection date and inspector.
The sign shall be updated following every inspection performed in accordance with Section 17-9.
Ladders shall be used for access only.
By way of exception, ladders may be used as work platforms for work at height when the use of other and more secure work equipment is inexpedient because the risk is low and
a.
the ladder will only be used for a short time, or
b.
the employer cannot change the conditions in the workplace.
Free-standing ladders more than 6 metres high shall not be used. Free-standing combination ladders more than 4 metres high shall not be used.
When the employer has assessed the risk and finds it safe, employees may use a rope as means of access and to assume working positions. This is conditional on it being possible to carry out the work in a safe manner and on it being inexpedient to use other, safer equipment.
The employer shall make the following arrangements to ensure the safety of employees in connection with the use of rope:
a.
the rope system shall include at least two separately anchored ropes. One rope is used as a work rope for access, descent and support, while the other is used as a safety rope to secure the employees. One rope may be used if, following a risk assessment, the employer finds that the use of two ropes would make the work more hazardous. If this is the case, the employer shall implement suitable measures to ensure that the employees are safe,
b.
the employees shall be provided with and use an appropriate harness, which shall be attached to the safety rope,
c.
the work rope shall be equipped with a safe means of ascent and descent and a self-locking system to prevent the user from falling,
d.
the safety rope shall have a mobile fall-prevention system that follows the movements of the user,
e.
tools and other equipment used by the employees shall be secured to the employees’ harnesses or work seats or by other appropriate means,
f.
the work shall be carefully planned and supervised so that employees can get immediate assistance in an emergency,
g.
The employees shall receive necessary training, practice and instruction in the work to be done, particularly in procedures in connection with rescue operations.
If necessary, the rope shall be fitted with a work seat. This shall be considered with particular regard to the duration of the work and the ergonomic strains the employees are exposed to.
Chapter 18. Work with lifting equipment
Work equipment for lifting and moving employees shall be designed to:
a.
prevent the platform or similar from falling using suitable devices;
b.
prevent the employee from falling from the platform;
c.
prevent the employee from being crushed, trapped or struck;
d.
ensure that the employee is not exposed to risk and can leave the platform in the event of unintentional operational interruptions.
If the devices stated under (a) do not provide adequate safety due to the nature of the work site and height differences, the platform shall be secured by installing an additional rope with an enhanced safety coefficient. The ropes shall be inspected before each use.
Chapter 19. Work with mobile work equipment
Mobile work equipment that can roll over during use and that has a seat for the operator or employee shall have:
a.
either a protective structure to ensure that the equipment does not tilt more than a quarter turn, or
b.
a structure that ensures that there is sufficient clearance around the operator or ride-on employee should the tilting movement continue beyond a quarter turn, or
c.
another device of equivalent effect.
The protective structure can be an integral part of the work equipment.
Protective structures are not required if the work equipment is stabilised while in operation, or where the design makes roll-over impossible.
If there is a risk that ride-on employees can be crushed between parts of the work equipment and the ground should the work equipment roll over, a restraining system must be available for these employees.
A lift or stacker that carries one or more employees shall have:
a.
a structure that prevents it from rolling over, or
b.
a roll-over protective structure, or
c.
a structure that ensures that there is sufficient clearance between the ground and the equipment should the lift or stacker roll over, or
d.
a structure restraining employees in the driving seat and thus prevents them from being crushed between the ground and parts of the lift or stacker should it roll over.
Tractors must be fitted with seat belts and a type-approved protective structure to protect the operator should the tractor roll over or rear. Operators must wear a seatbelt while driving. However, the requirement to wear a seat belt does not apply when the operator drives at low speeds and must leave their seat at brief intervals when the seat belt itself presents an increased risk of injury, or in other cases when it is clearly unnecessary.
Self-propelled work equipment that can put employees at risk when moving shall meet the following requirements:
a.
It must have facilities for preventing an unauthorised start-up.
b.
It must have appropriate facilities for minimising the consequences of a collision, where there is more than one item of track-mounted work equipment in motion at the same time.
c.
There must be a device for braking and stopping the equipment. Where required on grounds of safety, emergency facilities operated by readily accessible controls or automatic systems must be available to enable braking and stopping in the event of failure of the main facility.
d.
Where the driver's direct field of vision is inadequate to ensure the safety of the employees, appropriate auxiliary devices shall be installed to ensure proper visibility.
e.
Work equipment designed to be used at night or in dark places shall be fitted with lighting appropriate to the work to be carried out.
f.
Work equipment that can constitute a fire hazard, either on its own or concerning the load being towed or carried, and that is liable to endanger employees, must be equipped with appropriate fire-extinguishing equipment unless such equipment is within reach at the site where the equipment is being used.
g.
Remote-controlled work equipment shall stop automatically as soon as it leaves the control range.
h.
Remote-controlled work equipment that, under normal operating conditions, can put employees at risk of being run over or crushed, must have facilities to guard against this risk unless other suitable devices are in place to prevent the risk of being run over or crushed.
Mobile work equipment with a combustion engine may not be used in work areas unless a sufficient fresh air supply can be secured to prevent harm to the employees’ life and health.
Chapter 20. High-pressure jetting
The employer shall provide instructions on the safe use of high-pressure jetting equipment.
The instructions shall at least cover the following:
a.
the nozzle of the jetting device, with or without a liquid jet, must never point towards one's own or somebody else's body during use;
b.
a device for mechanical control of the jetting device must be used when the estimated recoil force exceeds 250 N;
c.
the jetting device must be supported against the body if the recoil force of the hand-held jetting device exceeds 150 N;
d.
the trigger or relief valve must never be tied up or otherwise blocked;
e.
setting the control valve for working pressure during use shall only be done in consultation with the person operating the jetting device. The same applies to the regulation of the temperature when the liquid is heated;
f.
when the work is completed, the jetting device shall be placed and stored out of reach of unauthorised personnel.
Chapter 21. Excavation work
Before excavation work is initiated, the employer shall map and document conditions that may pose a risk to the employees’ safety. The employer shall make a risk assessment based on the mapping.
A new risk assessment shall be made if there are changes in conditions that may affect the employees’ safety.
The risk assessment shall take particular account of:
a.
ground conditions and terrain
b.
the depth of the excavation pit
c.
weather conditions
d.
the load on the ground from surrounding buildings or structures, storage locations, work equipment and similar
e.
the location of excavated materials
f.
traffic conditions at the excavation site
g.
the location and use of work equipment and materials
h.
the need for shoring
i.
installations in the ground
j.
chemical and biological health hazards
k.
falling objects
l.
risk of falling
m.
ergonomic conditions
n.
the need for evacuation and escape routes.
The employer shall ensure that employees receive the necessary information about:
a.
the risk assessments made of the excavation work in question
b.
what protective measures are necessary for the safe execution of the work
c.
how to deal with special risk factors that may arise.
Plans shall be in place before the excavation of trenches or shafts deeper than 1.25 m. The risk assessment made pursuant to Section 21-1 shall form the basis of the plan.
The plan shall be readily available in the workplace and shall be kept as long as necessary for the safety of the employees. The plan shall be updated if there are changes that may be of significance to the safety of the employees.
The plan shall:
a.
show the longitudinal profile with a description of soil types down to 1 m below the excavation level and installations in the ground;
b.
Show a typical cross-section. When shoring (bracing) is planned, this shall be indicated on the drawing;
c.
Show where the excavated material is to be placed;
d.
Contain work instructions that ensure the excavation work is carried out in a way so that the employees’ health and safety are safeguarded in a fully responsible manner.
In case of minor jobs and in emergencies, the plans can be simplified to a diagram.
Chapter 22. Safety signage, signalling and communication
The employer shall ensure that:
a.
the person giving the signals, hereinafter called the signaller, uses arm and hand movements to give manoeuvring instructions to the person receiving the signals, hereinafter called the operator;
b.
the signaller can monitor all manoeuvres with his/her eyes without thereby putting him/herself at risk;
c.
if the conditions described in b) above cannot be met, one or more additional signallers are deployed;
d.
the signaller's tasks consist exclusively of giving instructions in connection with the manoeuvring, and of attending to the safety of employees in the vicinity;
e.
the operator interrupts the manoeuvre being carried out and asks for new instructions if it proves impossible to carry out the order with the necessary degree of safety.
The employer shall provide the signaller with equipment to ensure that:
a.
the operator can recognise the signaller without difficulty;
b.
the signaller is wearing one or more easily recognisable personal effects, such as a jacket, helmet, cuffs or wristbands, or uses a carry bat;
c.
the easily recognisable personal effects are in strong colours, preferably all in the same colour, and are used exclusively by signallers.
Part 4: Requirements relating to other work that involves risk
Chapter 23. Risk assessments, training and information in connection with manual work
In connection with the planning, design and execution of manual work, the employer shall ensure that the organisational conditions that can entail a risk of harm to the health of employees are assessed, both individually and overall.
When assessing work that is to be performed manually, the employer shall particularly take into consideration:
a.The nature of the object
Manual handling can especially cause harm to health if the object:
-
is too heavy or too large,
-
is unmanageable or difficult to hold on to,
-
is unsteady or its content may be displaced,
-
is placed so that it needs to be kept at a distance from the body or handled by bending or twisting the body, or
-
due to its exterior shape or texture, can inflict injuries on the employee, especially in the event of a collision.
b.Physical strain
A physical strain can especially cause harm to health if it:
-
is excessive,
-
involves having to twist the body,
-
can cause sudden movement of heavy objects, or
-
is imposed with the body in an unsteady position.
c.Layout of the working environment
The layout of the working environment can cause an increased risk of harm to health if:
-
there is insufficient room to perform the work,
-
the floor is uneven and can cause tripping, or is slippery concerning the employees’ footwear,
-
objects must be handled at different heights due to differences in the level of the floor or work surface,
-
the floor or support point is unstable,
-
the workplace or working environment does not allow the employee to handle the object manually at a safe height or from an appropriate working position, or
-
the temperature, humidity or ventilation is inappropriate.
d.The work task
The work task can especially cause harm to health if it involves one or more of the following:
-
too frequent, repetitive and prolonged work operations that put particular strain on the muscular-skeletal system. Static work shall be reduced as far as possible,
-
lifting, lowering or carrying over too great distances,
-
not enough time for necessary rest or restitution, or
-
a work pace determined by a process that the employee cannot adjust.
Chapter 23A Work that may entail a risk of exposure to violence and threats of violence.
The employer shall identify any work situation conditions that may entail violence or threats of violence for the employees. During the planning, organisation and execution of the work, the employer shall ensure that an individual and joint assessment is conducted of any conditions that may entail a risk of violence and threats of violence.
The risk assessment shall pay particular attention to:
-
the organisation and facilitation of the work,
-
where, when and in what situations the employee may be exposed to violence or threats of violence,
-
work performed alone,
-
location and organisation of working hours,
-
staffing,
-
competence/expertise,
-
design of work premises and technical solutions,
-
the effect of implemented and planned preventive measures.
The employer shall implement the necessary measures based on the health and safety risks identified in the risk assessment.
The employer shall ensure that risks of violence and threats of violence are reduced or removed insofar as possible. When implementing measures, the following must in particular be taken into consideration:
a.
the organisation and facilitation of the workplace and the work that will be performed,
b.
systematic maintenance of relevant work equipment, etc., e.g. of alarm equipment where this is used,
c.
opportunity to summon help,
d.
staffing, including employees working alone.
Chapter 24. Work on operations control and safety monitoring
The employer shall ensure that the work is organised to provide the highest possible degree of system safety.
In the assessment, the employer shall consider:
-
the system's intrinsic safety;
-
possibilities for incorrect operation in connection with operation and maintenance;
-
possibilities for handling nonconformity and fault situations effectively;
-
the employees’ workload;
-
the employees’ experience and knowledge;
-
the employees’ physical and mental fitness.
Analyses shall be prepared that take account of the control room operations to be carried out in connection with:
-
start-up of the system;
-
normal operation;
-
change of operating conditions;
-
operational disturbances;
-
critical operating conditions;
-
shutting down and stopping;
-
maintenance.
If the systems include computer systems, the analyses shall include both equipment and software.
The employer shall facilitate the work and position the equipment in accordance with the results of the analyses described in Sections 24-2 and 24-4 and having regard to ergonomic conditions.
Information shall be easily understandable and be based on the uniform use of symbols and colour codes. The information system shall be designed so that the user can retrieve necessary information at all times for the tasks that need to be performed under different operating conditions.
Information systems shall be dimensioned for both normal and critical situations.
The design and choice of information systems, including control devices and information sensors, shall be based on the need for efficient operation and for reducing the risk of incorrect operation.
Control devices and information sensors shall be designed and placed in a logical setting to reduce the risk of incorrect operation. The employee must always have a good overview and not have to spend an unnecessary amount of time on necessary work operations.
A plan must be in place that includes an overview of the division of tasks, staffing and shift plans based on analyses as stated in Section 24-2.
Tasks shall be clearly defined, and they shall be described and facilitated so that no harm to health arises as a result of, for example:
-
too many or too strenuous tasks;
-
monotonously few or unvaried tasks;
-
an unclear division of labour between employees or between employees and their superiors;
-
unclear deputy functions.
The plan shall also contain instructions and procedures for the operation of the system from the control room. Start-up of the system, normal operation, change of operating conditions, operational disturbances, shutting down and stopping, and maintenance shall be described.
Instructions shall also be available on how the employees can get necessary urgent assistance to handle hazardous situations that may arise.
Instructions shall also be available on special tasks to be performed when accidents occur.
The employer shall ensure that systematic records are kept of the following:
-
significant operational disturbances;
-
near-accidents and accidents at the work site;
-
changes made at the work site.
The registration and documentation shall form the basis for the assessment of changes and updates, and for the facilitation of operations control and safety supervision.
Chapter 25. Requirements for inspection, marking and filling of compressed air cylinders for diving and respiratory protection equipment
A person competent to perform inspections must have reached the age of 18 and have completed a course with training in
a.
regulatory requirements for inspection and filling;
b.
preparation and planning for inspection;
c.
mechanical damage;
d.
corrosion theory for steel and aluminium;
e.
cleaning and inspection of valves;
f.
pressure testing – manner of operation and requirements;
g.
practical pressure testing;
h.
aids for the inspection;
i.
scrapping rules;
j.
marking and registration.
The inspector shall keep a list of the inspected equipment, which shall include:
a.
the owner's name;
b.
the manufacturer's name;
c.
serial number;
d.
internal volume in litres;
e.
test pressure (in bar);
f.
month and year of the inspection;
g.
the result of the inspection and pressure testing;
h.
any modifications made to cylinders or valves;
i.
the competent person's signature.
The list shall be stored for at least ten years after the last inspection was recorded.
If it is impossible or inadvisable to mark the compressed air cylinder, for example, because the cylinder is very small, the competent person shall issue an inspection certificate that the owner shall keep and present when the cylinder is filled. The inspection certificate shall contain:
a.
the owner's name;
b.
the manufacturer's name;
c.
serial number;
d.
the month and year of the inspection, and the inspection number;
e.
the competent person's signature.
Compressed air systems for filling breathing air shall have:
a.
necessary filters and accessories,
b.
a pressure gauge for checking the filling pressure,
c.
a safety valve, and
d.
a pressure limitation valve (pressure control choke) for each outlet with different filling pressures, if the safety valve is not equipped with this function.
The compressor's safety valve can function as the safety valve for the highest filling pressure if the valve is set to that pressure.
The filling panel with accessories shall provide a clear overview to avoid incorrect operation.
The filling pressure gauge shall have a range of no more than twice the maximum filling pressure.
The safety valve for the outlet shall be adjusted and sealed to a maximum of 15% above the filling pressure stamped on the cylinder.
The pressure limitation valve shall be set so that the cylinder pressure at 15 °C does not exceed the filling pressure stamped on the cylinder.
Compressed air cylinders shall only be filled by persons who
a.
have reached the age of 18,
b.
have been given the necessary training in compressed air cylinders, and
c.
have been made aware of the risks associated with the work.
Chapter 26. Health and safety during work under water or under increased ambient pressure
The notification shall contain the following information:
a.
the name and registered address of the undertaking;
b.
the name of a contact person with telephone number and email address;
c.
the start time, place and duration of the diving operation;
d.
a description of the nature of the assignment;
e.
confirmation that a hyperbaric chamber will be present at the dive site.
An explanation shall be provided when notification cannot be given in advance.
The application shall contain the following information:
a.
specification of the purpose of the diving operation;
b.
information about the activities that the applicant wishes to carry out;
c.
specification of the dive site;
d.
specification of when the diving operation is to be carried out;
e.
mapping of hazards and assessment of risk, and plans and measures to reduce the risk factors;
f.
a description of procedures to be established to ensure that the diving operation is carried out in accordance with applicable laws and regulations;
g.
a description of the employee's qualifications and the equipment to be used to ensure the safe execution of the test diving operation;
h.
documentation of valid medical certificates for persons who will be deployed under water or under increased ambient pressure;
i.
declaration from the employer that those participating in the diving operation have the requisite competence;
j.
documentation that contact has been established with an approved diving medical physician who will be on standby during the diving operation;
k.
statement on the application from the safety representative or, if the undertaking does not have a safety representative, an employee representative;
l.
a declaration from the employer that necessary first aid equipment will be available;
m.
a declaration from the employer that all equipment to be used during the diving operation has been checked before the diving operation. The inspection must be documented in writing;
n.
emergency response plan for potential hazard and accident situations;
o.
a complete overview of any exemption applications of relevance to the diving operation;
p.
approval from the Regional Committee for Medical and Health Research Ethics.
The employer shall ensure that everyone who participates in diving operations has the requisite:
a.
theoretical and practical training and instruction to deal with the hazards that the diving operation may entail;
b.
training in correct use and maintenance of the diving equipment;
c.
training in the use of first aid equipment, including oxygen treatment equipment;
d.
fitness of health for the work the person is to carry out.
A diving supervisor must:
a.
have completed documented safety training pursuant to Section 26-23,
b.
have a diving certificate in accordance with these regulations,
c.
be able to lead the diving operation in a completely safe manner,
d.
be able to ensure the diver's safety,
e.
have relevant experience as a diver, and
f.
be experienced in using communication systems.
As a minimum, diving instructors providing practical training must:
a.
have the same type of diving certificate as the training aims to qualify for;
b.
have at least one year's experience in the type of diving in question;
c.
be fit to carry out instruction work;
d.
have basic knowledge of applicable regulations;
e.
know emergency procedures and emergency response measures.
The training for a class A diving certificate must provide the basic theoretical knowledge and practical skills required to be able to stay and move safely under water. The training must enable the diver to perform simple and light work under water down to a depth of 30 metres.
The training must cover knowledge of systematic work on health, safety and the environment as well as applicable laws and regulations. Safety training must be provided on the following topics:
a.
diving theory
b.
diving physiology
c.
first aid
d.
decompression tables
e.
communication systems
f.
underwater hazards
g.
risk assessments
h.
introduction to the use of hyperbaric chambers
i.
practical diving
j.
use of diving equipment
k.
use of common and simple work equipment
l.
maintenance and repairs
m.
surface procedures
n.
basic diving supervision and
o.
marking of the dive site.
The training must include scuba diving and surface-supplied diving with air as the breathing gas.
The training must have a duration of at least seven weeks.
A person with a class S diving certificate given pursuant to the regulations of 30 November 1990 no. 944 relating to diving, may be issued with a class A diving certificate following training pursuant to the first and third paragraphs, with a duration of at least four weeks
The training for a class B diving certificate shall be based on class A. It shall provide the theoretical knowledge and practical skills required to be able to dive and work at depths down to 50 metres safely and securely. The safety training shall cover the following:
a.
the risks that diving down to 50 metres can entail,
b.
physical and medical preconditions,
c.
surface-supplied diving,
d.
progression diving down to 50 metres,
e.
complications in connection with diving,
f.
use of a hyperbaric chamber,
g.
use of wet bell,
h.
use of a warm-water wet suit,
i.
operational conditions,
j.
diving equipment,
k.
common types of work equipment,
l.
common types of breathing gas, and
m.
diving supervision.
The training shall have a duration of at least 9 weeks.
Training in diving supervision includes a diving supervisor course and completion of a refresher course every five years.
The diving supervisor course must have a duration of at least two weeks, divided evenly between theoretical and practical training. In the theory part, safety training must be given in:
a.
organisation and management,
b.
making a survey of hazards and problems, risk assessment, planning and implementation of measures
c.
emergency response,
d.
diving medicine and lifesaving first aid
e.
lessons learnt from the evaluation of previous accidents,
f.
communication,
g.
accident site management,
h.
behaviour in stressful situations, including emotional first aid, and
i.
good operational practice.
During the practical training, each course participant must at least once take part in a practical exercise playing the role of the diving supervisor, and the exercise must include planning, risk assessment and leading the diving operation, handling a diving accident, including accident site management, briefing and debriefing.
The refresher course must have a duration of at least three days. The course must be based on the documented safety training for diving certificates in accordance with these regulations and on the training in the diving supervisor course. The course must include an evaluation of earlier accidents and facilitate sharing of experiences from incidents. Each course participant must at least once take part in a practical exercise playing the role of the diving supervisor, and the exercise must include planning, risk assessment and leading the diving operation, handling a diving accident, including accident site management, briefing and debriefing. The training must also include a theory test in the regulations relating to diving, basic diving medicine, use of diving tables and log-keeping.
For recreational dive training and recreational dive guiding it is sufficient that the diving supervisor has received training in accordance with recognised European standards for the training of diving supervisors.
Nationals of other EEA countries or Switzerland who intend to set up business in Norway and perform underwater work must apply to the Labour Inspection Authority for a permit before starting such work; see Chapter 9 of the Regulations concerning Administrative Arrangements. A permit is granted if the applicant presents:
-
proof of nationality, and
-
a certificate of competence or another certificate of qualifications required for work in another EEA state or Switzerland.
The employer must ensure that the diving supervisor and other participants in the diving operation are suitable for the tasks assigned to them.
The diving supervisor must:
a.
lead the diving operation,
b.
ensure that the health and safety of the diver and other employees are attended to during the preparations for and execution of the diving operation,
c.
establish communication with the diver,
d.
know the length of the umbilical that is in the water at all times,
e.
make sure a log is kept of the diving operation,
f.
lead the surface decompression in the hyperbaric chamber and ensure that decompression is carried out safely and make sure injured divers receive treatment in accordance with applicable procedures and the advice of an approved diving medical physician,
g.
interrupt the diving operation if it is unsafe to continue, and
h.
assist the diver in the form of tools and equipment.
The standby diver must:
a.
help check that the diving equipment is water-tight and functions properly before the diving operation begins, and that the lifeline or umbilical is securely fastened to the diver, and
b.
be ready for immediate assistance by intervening or assisting the diver in an emergency. The standby diver must be located at the surface, already fully dressed with his mask off and ready to enter the water as quickly as possible and at the latest within one minute. In a pool such as a swimming pool with a depth of up to six metres, the standby diver does not need to be fully dressed already. For public safety diving and training for public safety diving, the standby diver may be in the water if it is safe, provided a diving supervisor and a line attendant are present at the surface.
c.
The standby diver must have a minimum of 15 minutes of bottom time available without any previous dive that limits his function as a standby diver.
The line attendant must:
a.
be responsible for the lifeline both during the execution of the diving operation and in an emergency,
b.
handle communication with the diver using lifeline signals,
c.
know the length of the umbilical at all times,
d.
watch the diver's actions and movements as far as possible, and
e.
maintain an overview of activities in the area and inform the diving supervisor of this.
Diving and stops during diving must be facilitated and carried out in accordance with recognised diving and treatment tables for safe diving.
Diving must be performed within the bottom time restrictions described in the following table:
Bottom time restrictions for diving with surface decompression (OD-O2 ) and decompression in water, as well as for TUP (Transfer Under Pressure) decompression
Depth (meters) 0-12 15 18 21 24 27 30 33 36 39 42 45 48 51
OD-O2 and in water (min) 240 180 120 90 70 60 50 40 35 30 30 25 25 20
TUP (min) 240 240 180 180 180 130 110 95 85 75 65 60 55 50
A dive computer may only be used as an extra safety tool, and on the condition that the diving supervisor checks the diver's time and depth and makes sure the ascent and any decompression stops are within the guidelines stipulated in the diving table.
Diving according to a multilevel table must not take place unless the employer has ensured:
a.
that quality assurance is also provided using a dive computer (RGBM, Bühlmann or Thalmann algorithm) where the diving is interrupted if the multilevel table and the dive computer do not permit a direct ascent to the surface at any time,
b.
continuous digital depth monitoring at the surface,
c.
digital logging of the pressure-time profile and
d.
digital logging of the time remaining before a decompression dive.
During recreational dive training and recreational dive guiding, diving tables and a dive computer may be used that complies with recognised European standards for training recreational divers.
In connection with diving operations, the following information must be logged for each dive and be verified by the diving supervisor:
a.
date,
b.
dive site,
c.
the nature and scope of the work assignment,
d.
names of participants and allocated tasks,
e.
the depth and pressure-time profile for each diver,
f.
gas mixture (if other than air), and
g.
any undesirable incidents/non-conformities.
The logging must be done digitally, and the information must be retained for 10 years. The information must be available to the Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority, safety representatives and each diver.
Undertakings that carry out diving operations shall prepare and make available complete documentation, including:
a.
an organisation plan for the undertaking that shows how the diving activities are organised,
b.
each person's duties in connection with the diving activities,
c.
safety procedures,
d.
contingency plans, including emergency procedures,
e.
work instructions,
f.
accident reporting procedures,
g.
the diving and treatment tables used, and
h.
logging of the diving operation,
i.
maintenance procedures for the diving equipment, and keeping inspection logs.
Undertakings that perform diving operations must send a notification to the Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority with the following information:
a.
company name,
b.
business registration number,
c.
contact information,
d.
what type of diving work is performed,
e.
the name and contact information of the diving medical physician who participates in preparing and maintaining the undertaking's safety procedures and emergency response plans, and
f.
the name and registration number of any diving vessels.
The undertaking is obligated to submit a new notification within five years if its activities continue. If there are changes to the information in the first paragraph, the undertaking is obligated to report this.
Chapter 27. Rock work
A health, safety and working environment (HSE) plan shall be prepared in writing. The HSE plan shall be prepared based on a risk assessment. The plan shall be readily available in the workplace and shall be stored as long as necessary for safety purposes. The HSE plan shall be regularly updated and worded so that it can be understood by each employee.
The HSE plan shall be prepared before the work commences and shall be revised if significant changes, extensions or alterations take place in the workplace.
The HSE plan shall make it clear that the risks to which the employees are exposed in the workplace have been identified and assessed and shall describe what measures should be implemented to prevent injuries and accidents. In particular, the plan shall show that a safety assessment has been carried out of the design, use and maintenance of the workplace and equipment.
Where relevant, the HSE plan shall include measures to ensure
-
safe transport of persons;
-
rock support;
-
stabilisation of the ground;
-
safety in connection with the risk of rock falls or landslides;
-
inspection of the workplace;
-
registration and keeping records of measurements.
If employees from several undertakings are present in the same workplace, the HSE plan shall describe the objective, measures and procedures for the principal undertaking's coordination of the HSE measures.
For each workplace, the HSE plan shall describe what rules to follow to safeguard the employees’ health, safety and working environment and to achieve safe use of methods and equipment. In addition, the HSE plan shall contain an overview of escape routes, information about the use of evacuation, rescue and first aid equipment, and what measures to take in an emergency in or near the workplace. The HSE plan shall also contain provisions relating to the rescue organisation.
The HSE plan shall contain an overview of rock caverns on a scale that makes the presentation understandable. In addition to tunnels and areas of excavation, the overview must show the known features that may have a bearing on the operations and safety.
The HSE plan shall contain information about key aspects of the ventilation system and shall also describe equipment and measures required to prevent explosions.
If harmful gases are or may be present in the air, the HSE plan shall describe the available protective equipment and the preventive measures that have been implemented.
The HSE plan shall provide a detailed description of what measures to take to prevent, detect and combat fire and the spread of fire.
The employer shall prepare instructions to ensure that:
-
inspections are carried out continuously of the rock and of previously completed securing work;
-
Loose rock that could pose a hazard is removed as soon as possible or safely secured;
-
rock scaling is carried out from a safe position by employees with experience and an understanding of scaling work;
-
visibility, lighting and sound conditions in the workplace are satisfactory where scaling is carried out using manual tools;
-
information about any special matters with a bearing on the securing work is passed on to the next shift and registered in writing, and the documentation is kept in the workplace for the duration of the work;
-
barriers are put in place as soon as possible around areas in which there may be a risk of uncontrolled rock falls or landslides, and the barriers are not removed until inspection and necessary scaling or securing has been carried out.
The employer shall ensure that adequate measures are put in place where substances associated with a health and safety risk can be emitted into the air. These measures shall:
a.
remove or collect the pollutants at the source, or
b.
dilute the pollutants to a level at which they do not put employees at risk.
The ventilation system shall be designed and operated so that it ensures satisfactory air quality in areas that are worked in or occupied. The ventilation parameters shall be measured and recorded regularly.
In places where operational preparations, demolition work or other work is carried out under special operational circumstances that prevent the installation of satisfactory permanent ventilation, special measures shall be taken to safeguard the employees’ health and safety, for example by installing temporary ventilation.
The employees shall be instructed as necessary about measures to avoid exposure to air pollution.
Maintenance shall include the removal of any potentially harmful deposits and impurities from ventilation installations.
Chapter 28. Work in connection with carbon dioxide extinguishing systems
In connection with the installation of carbon dioxide systems, necessary measures shall be taken to ensure that the installation can be carried out in a completely safe manner.
Before starting work on the release mechanism and connection between the manifold and the individual cylinders
a.
the cylinders must be in place and properly fastened. Only one protective cylinder valve cap may be removed at any one time, should this be necessary for alignment purposes;
b.
installation of the carbon dioxide piping must be completed;
c.
other work in the carbon dioxide room must be completed;
d.
installation of the release cabinet with valves and locking facilities must be completed,
e.
the door to the carbon dioxide room must be fitted with a lock;
f.
the main valves’ ‘open’ and ‘closed’ position indicators must be checked by the work supervisor;
g.
the main valves must be set to the ‘closed’ position and locked.
The protective cylinder valve caps shall remain in place on the cylinders until the work mentioned in the first and second paragraphs has been completed and work on adjusting pull cords etc. and on making up the connection between the cylinders and manifold is about to start.
Starting cylinders and release mechanisms must not be connected until the piping between the main valves and the cylinders has been tested for leakages.
Only those involved in the work shall have access to the carbon dioxide room while the release mechanism is being adjusted. The door to the carbon dioxide room shall always be locked when the room is unoccupied.
Before starting any repair and inspection work in rooms protected by a carbon dioxide extinguishing system,
a.
the release mechanism for these rooms shall be effectively secured so that panic release of the system is not possible;
b.
the system shall be locked by closing and locking the main valves and, if applicable, the distribution valves;
c.
if the main valves of a system cannot be locked in the closed position, the system shall be secured by installing a spectacle flange on high-pressure pipes before or immediately after the main valve and setting it to the closed position.
Chapter 29. Work in or on tanks, pipelines, rooms etc. where flammable products or hazardous substances could be present

Chapter 30. Risk of avalanches in occupancy areas and work areas
Part 5: Register of exposed employees
Chapter 31. Register of exposed employees
The employer shall ensure that a register is kept of:
a.
employees who are or may be exposed to to carcinogenic, mutagenic or reprotoxic chemicals classified as Carc. 1A, Carc. 1B, Muta. 1A or Muta. 1B under the Regulations of 16 June 2012 No 622 on the classification, labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures (CLP).
b.
employees who are or may be exposed to substances, mixtures or processes on the following list:
-
work involving the production of auramine,
-
work involving exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) which occur in soot, tar or pitch,
-
work involving exposure to dust, fumes or mist emitted during calcination and electrolytic processing of nickel from ore,
-
work that involves highly acidic processes to produce 2-propanol,
-
work that entails exposure to hardwood dust, as well as substances or mixtures released during such processes.
c.
employees who work with lead and lead compounds.
The register shall include the individual employee's name, national ID number, position and workplace, and information about which hazardous chemicals the employee is exposed to, how and in what concentrations the exposure takes place, and the time and duration of the exposure. The register shall not contain any other information.
The information about individual employees exposed to carcinogenic or mutagenic chemicals shall be stored for at least 60 years after the exposure has ceased. Information about employees exposed to reprotoxic chemicals shall be stored for at least five years after the exposure has ceased. The register shall not be destroyed in whole or in part except with permission from the Labour Inspection Authority.
The employer shall keep a register of employees who are or have been exposed to biological agents in infection risk group 3 or 4 and biological factors with the D notation, see Section 6-1 of the Regulations concerning Action and Limit Values. The register shall include the employees’ name, national ID number and the type of work that has been performed and, if possible, the biological factor to which the employees have been exposed. The register shall also contain information about exposures in connection with any accidents or incidents.
The register shall be stored for at least 10 years after the exposure has ceased.
In the following cases, the register shall be stored for up to 40 years following the last known exposure that could potentially cause infection:
a.
by biological agents known to be capable of giving rise to persistent or latent infections;
b.
that, in the light of present knowledge, are undiagnosable until illness develops many years later;
c.
that have particularly long incubation periods before illness develops;
d.
that result in illnesses that recrudesce at times over a long period despite treatment; or
e.
that may have serious long-term sequelae.
The register of exposed employees shall be placed at the disposal of the Labour Inspection Authority if the undertaking is discontinued.
Part 6: Final provisions

Chapter 32. Final provisions

	FOR-2024-04-05-574
Ministry	Ministry of Labour and Social Inclusion

In force	2013-01-01
Last amended	FOR-2024-04-05-574
Last updated
Corected
	Regulations concerning the performance of work, use of work equipment and related technical requirements

Depth (meters)	0-12	15	18	21	24	27	30	33	36	39	42	45	48	51
OD-O2 and in water (min)	240	180	120	90	70	60	50	40	35	30	30	25	25	20
TUP (min)	240	240	180	180	180	130	110	95	85	75	65	60	55	50

Regulations concerning the Performance of Work

Regulations concerning the Performance of Work

On this page

Part 1: Introductory provisions

Part 2: Requirements for work involving chemical and biological risk factors

Part 3: Requirements for work under exposure to physical risk factors

Part 4: Requirements relating to other work that involves risk

Part 5: Register of exposed employees

Part 6: Final provisions

Part 1: Introductory provisions

Chapter 1. Introductory provisions

Section 1-1. Purpose

Section 1-2. Scope

Section 1-3. To whom the regulations apply

Section 1-4. Definitions

Section 1-5. Exemption

Part 2: Requirements for work involving chemical and biological risk factors

Chapter 2. Substance index

Section 2-1. Requirements for a substance index

Section 2-2. Structure of the substance index

Section 2-3. Use of the information in the substance index

Section 2-4. Access to the substance index

Chapter 3. Work where chemicals may be a risk to the health and safety of employees

Section 3-1. Risk assessment of health hazards associated with the use and handling of chemicals

Section 3-2. Measurement of pollutants in the working atmosphere as a basis for risk assessment

Section 3-3. Measurements of vinyl chloride monomer in the working atmosphere

Section 3-4. Training in working with hazardous chemicals

Section 3-5. Information about risks associated with hazardous chemicals

Section 3-6. Information to employees about the results of measurements of pollutants in the working atmosphere

Section 3-7. Storage and handling of chemicals

Section 3-8. Measures against risks caused by chemicals

Section 3-9. Measures against harmful chemicals in connection with repairs, maintenance and cleaning

Section 3-10. Measures in connection with flammable and explosive chemicals and unstable chemicals

Section 3-11. Specific measures for working with carcinogenic or mutagenic chemicals

Section 3-12. Requirements for personal protective equipment for work with isocyanates

Section 3-13. The employer's obligation to label chemicals

Section 3-14. Sand and other blasting agents

Section 3-15. Emergency response plans for emergencies arising during work with chemicals

Section 3-16. Handling hazardous waste

Section 3-17. Hygiene measures for working with chemicals

Section 3-18. Requirements for maintenance and cleaning of work equipment when handling chemicals

Section 3-19. Prohibition on work with special chemicals

Section 3-20. Medical examination of employees who may be exposed to hazardous chemicals

Section 3-21. The employer's follow-up of medical examinations in connection with exposure to chemicals

Section 3-22. Relocation of employees exposed to chemicals

Section 3-23. Medical examinations in connection with work as a smoke or chemical diver

Section 3-24. The employer's follow-up of medical examinations of smoke and chemical divers

Section 3-25. Medical examinations in connection with work with lead and lead compounds

Section 3-26. Temporary relocation in connection with work with lead and lead compounds

Section 3-27. Specific requirements for the medical fitness of smoke and chemical divers

Chapter 4. Work with asbestos

Section 4-1. Prohibition of asbestos and asbestos-containing materials

Section 4-2. Exception from the prohibition on work with asbestos

Section 4-3. Permission from the Labour Inspection Authority to work with asbestos

Section 4-4. Notification to the Labour Inspection Authority of work with asbestos

Section 4-5. Training in work with asbestos

Section 4-6. Instructions for handling asbestos-containing materials

Section 4-7. Measures to reduce exposure to fibrous asbestos dust

Section 4-8. Safety signage for work with asbestos

Section 4-9. Prohibition on smoking during work with asbestos

Section 4-10. Restrictions on the possibility of being assigned work with asbestos

Section 4-11. Medical examination of employees exposed to fibrous asbestos dust

Section 4-12. Removal of asbestos before demolition work

Section 4-13. Protective clothing and respiratory protection

Section 4-14. Wash place for work with asbestos

Section 4-15. Control of asbestos work

Chapter 5. Hot work

Section 5-1. Risk assessment in connection with work where heat is used or developed during execution (hot work)

Section 5-2. Mapping of pollutants in the working atmosphere in connection with hot work

Section 5-3. Training in hot work

Section 5-4. Information about the risks associated with hot work

Section 5-5. Planning and implementing measures in connection with hot work

Section 5-6. Implementation of measures against the risk of fire and explosion in connection with hot work

Section 5-7. Requirements for equipment in connection with hot work

Section 5-8. Securing against fire and explosion in gas equipment

Chapter 6. Work in surroundings that may entail exposure to biological agents

Section 6-1. Assessment of the risk of exposure to biological agents

Section 6-2. Assessment of biological agents

Section 6-3. Notification to the Labour Inspection Authority

Section 6-4. Training in work where employees can be exposed to biological agents