Inspectors from the Netherlands Labour Authority recently identified various violations of the Foreign Nationals (Employment) Act and the Working Hours Act during a comprehensive workplace inspection at a waste processing company in Enschede. There is also an ongoing investigation under the Minimum Wage and Minimum Holiday Allowance Act. The inspection was carried out in collaboration with the Twente Environmental Agency, the police and the Immigration, Identification and Human Trafficking Unit.
Outside the EU
Several work permits had not been applied for on time. This is required for the employees concerned to work in the Netherlands. That constitutions a legal violation on the employer's part. Nor was there any proper record-keeping of working hours, which is compulsory.
Unsafe and unhealthy
Inspectors carrying out inspections under health and safety legislation found that employees were unable to work in safe and healthy conditions. For example, not all work equipment had been demonstrably inspected, access routes were found to be in poor condition, emergency exits were blocked, and not everyone was using personal protective equipment. One employee was welding without any protective measures to prevent exposure to carcinogenic welding fumes.
Reporting helps!
The Netherlands Labour Authority frequently identifies violations relating to fair work. The Action Plan for the Verification Obligation helps to check whether someone is permitted to work in the Netherlands. The Netherlands Labour Authority emphasises the importance of reporting unfair, unsafe or unhealthy working conditions. Reports and tips are indispensable in tackling these kinds of abuses. Abuse can be reported through our website. Reports or tips can also be provided through Anonymous Crime Report on 0800 70 00, or through the police on 0900 88 44. More information is also available at zelfinspectie.nl (Dutch).