In the Netherlands, there are rules on working conditions to ensure your health and safety at work.
Working in a safe and healthy way
All the conditions under which you work are called working conditions. The rules on working conditions include rules about how long you can work and when you can take a break. There are also rules about heavy labour, hazardous substances, and health and safety.
What arrangements must your employer make?
Your boss must make sure you can do your work in a safe and healthy way. That is why there are rules about:
- What a safe workplace looks like.
- What protective equipment your boss provides.
- Proper information and instructions if you work with machinery or hazardous substances.
- How your boss ensures safety at work. For example, your boss must have a company doctor and a health and safety officer.
- How your boss prevents bullying and unethical behaviour. For example, all businesses must have a confidential advisor.
Getting help
If you have any questions or problems, you can get help from:
Frequently asked questions:
- What are good working conditions?
Good working conditions are working conditions that allow you to work safely. You are given clear explanations about your work, sufficient breaks and protective clothing if you needed it. The workplace must not pose any danger to your health. Your employer must comply with rules contained in the Working Conditions Act.
- What do I need to do if my workplace is unsafe?
If your work is dangerous or you feel unsafe, talk to your manager first. If that does not help, contact your union, the company doctor or the Netherlands Labour Authority. They can monitor the situation and take action. Your employer is not allowed to punish you for doing this.
- Do I have a right to breaks and rest periods if I work?
Yes, you have a right to breaks. If you work more than 5.5 hours a day, you have a right to at least a 30-minute break. If your working day is 10 hours long, you have a right to at least a 45-minute break. You must also have a rest period between working days. This is usually at least 11 hours without interruption.