Swedish employers must manage workplace environment risks

Under Swedish regulations, employers are required to conduct systematic work environment management to prevent ill health and accidents. According to the Swedish Work Environment Authority's regulations (AFS 2023:1), which came into effect on January 1, 2025, businesses must organize, implement, and follow up on work environment activities to identify both visible and subtle risks.

Risks can stem from unsafe methods, inadequate equipment, poor ventilation, high workloads, or interpersonal conflicts. These responsibilities also extend to remote work environments.

In cases of immediate and serious danger to life or health, a safety representative (skyddsombud) has the authority to issue a protective stop to specific work tasks. If the employer disagrees with the assessment of danger, the Swedish Work Environment Authority can be contacted to conduct an inspection and issue a formal decision, which can be appealed to the administrative court.