Skip to content
An official website of the OECD. Find out more
Created by the Public Governance Directorate

This website was created by the OECD Observatory of Public Sector Innovation (OPSI), part of the OECD Public Governance Directorate (GOV).

How to validate authenticity

Validation that this is an official OECD website can be found on the Innovative Government page of the corporate OECD website.

Supporting employers in the context of the effects of the spread of COVID-19 virus

Innovative response

The Labour Inspection has established priority measures to prevent the occurrence and spread of COVID-19 at the workplace, including if workers are required to travel for work.
The Labour Inspection has provided employers with information and recommendations for them in the context of the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
The Labour Inspection will verify the way in which employers comply with the legal provisions in force, in its area of competence.

Specific issues addressed and anticipated impact

Under the provisions of Law no. 319/2006 on safety and health at work, the employer has the obligation to ensure the safety and health of workers in all aspects related to work and must take the necessary measures to:
a) ensure the safety and protection of workers' health;
b) prevent occupational risks;
c) inform and train the workers;
d) provide protective equipment (masks, protective gloves, etc.)
For any activity that may present a risk of exposure to coronavirus (COVID-19), the employer must determine the nature and level of exposure in order to determine the action to be taken, as follows:
-exposure limitation;
-elaboration of an emergency measures plan, drawn up based on the recommendations of the occupational doctor;
-immediate announcement of the territorially competent Public Health Directorate.

Organisations/institutions involved

Labour Inspection
Teritorrial Labour Inspectorates

Potential issues

There is a need for improved collaboration with public health specialists.

Level(s) of government:
  • National/Federal government

Issues being addressed:

  • Health and safety of responders
  • Information and practice sharing (with public and/or internal)

Date Submitted:

11 May 2020