According to the justification of the document, the new version of the law aims to create a fully autonomous labor protection system that meets international standards established by the International Labour Organization.
One of the key aspects of the project is the increased responsibility of employers. Now, company leaders will bear full financial responsibility for harm caused to the health of workers, as well as for occupational diseases and injuries. The document outlines strict requirements for mandatory certification of workplaces, conducting regular medical examinations, and training in safety techniques at the employer's expense. Additionally, companies are required to provide special clothing, personal protective equipment, milk, and therapeutic nutrition to workers engaged in harmful working conditions.
Main Changes
Digitalization of Briefings. For the first time at the legislative level, it is proposed to conduct training and briefings on labor protection in electronic format, which will significantly simplify processes for IT companies and organizations with remote employees.
Change in the Threshold for Creating a Labor Protection Service. The new draft law proposes that a separate labor protection service be established only in organizations where the number of employees exceeds 50 (the previous threshold was 30). Small businesses will now be able to hire specialists through outsourcing or appoint a responsible person from among their employees.
Right to Refuse Dangerous Work. The document enshrines the right of workers to refuse to perform tasks that threaten their life or health. If the employer has not provided protective equipment, they are obliged to compensate for downtime. Dismissal or disciplinary measures for such refusal will be prohibited.
Guarantees of Payments in Case of Bankruptcy (Capitalization). An important innovation is the protection of the rights of those injured at work. In the event of the liquidation of a company or declaration of bankruptcy, it is obliged to transfer to the Social Fund the total amount of all future payments to injured workers "in one package" (capitalization). Without fulfilling this condition, the liquidation process of the company cannot be completed.
The draft law was adopted in the first reading by the parliament on January 22.
