Greek government introduces new workplace safety fine system

The Greek government has issued a joint ministerial decision establishing a stricter, targeted penalty regime for violations of occupational health and safety law. Fines are calculated using three indicators: the number of employees at the inspected site, the seriousness of the breach, and the hazard category of the business. These factors are combined in a mathematical formula that produces a scaled fine.

Low‑severity breaches – such as minor cuts or eye irritation – attract the smallest penalties, while medium‑severity offences – like finger fractures or exposure to extreme temperatures – receive higher amounts. High‑severity violations – for example unlicensed asbestos work or lack of basic electrical safeguards – are penalised most heavily, with the highest tier covering failures that could cause amputations or fatal workplace accidents. The system also imposes sanctions for administrative shortcomings by employers, and it applies tougher measures to repeat offenders.