Companies’ duty to internal control

In Norway, all companies covered by the Working Environment Act have a duty to carry out systematic health, environmental and safety work (HSE work).

This is regulated by regulations on systematic health, environmental and safety work in businesses (the Internal Control Regulations).

Requirement for documentation

The company must document its HSEQ work. The documentation must be sufficient to show that the company fulfills its obligations under the Working Environment Act.

Coordination

If the company consists of several units, a joint plan for the HSEQ work must be drawn up. This plan must be coordinated with the plans for the HSEQ work in the individual units.

Supervision

The Norwegian Labor Inspection Authority is responsible for supervising that companies comply with the requirements of the Working Environment Act. The Norwegian Labor Inspection Authority can issue orders to companies that do not fulfill their obligations.

What are the internal control regulations?

The internal control regulation is a regulation of the HSEQ legislation, which tells us in more detail and more concretely what the internal control is about, and what requirements are set.

What are the internal control regulations?

The internal control regulation is a regulation of the HSEQ legislation, which tells us in more detail and more concretely what the internal control is about, and what requirements are set.

Examples of activities in internal control

Internal control can include a number of different activities, for example:

  • Analysis of risk conditions: The company must analyze the risk conditions in the business to identify potential dangers and damages.
  • Preparation of routines: The company must prepare routines to prevent accidents, health damage and environmental damage.
  • Training of employees: The company must provide employees with training in HSEQ work.
  • Inspection of the workplace: The company must inspect the workplace regularly to ensure that the HSEQ requirements are met.

Conclusion

Internal control is an important tool for preventing accidents, health damage and environmental damage caused by companies. By carrying out systematic HSEQ work, companies can contribute to creating a safe and healthy working environment for their employees and a good environment for society.