LEGISLATIVE DECREE 81/08: SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR CONSTRUCTION SITES AND WORKPLACE COMPLIANCE

Legislative Decree 81/08 is the main Italian regulation on workplace safety. Introduced in 2008, it serves as a reference point to ensure safe working conditions in all fields, with a particular focus on construction sites. 

What Does Legislative Decree 81/08 Establish? 

The consolidated text on workplace safety sets forth a series of rules aimed at protecting the health and well-being of workers. Some of the key obligations include: 

• Risk Assessment: Every employer must identify and assess the risks present in the workplace. 

• Training: Workers must receive adequate training on how to operate safely. 

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Employers are required to provide necessary PPE, such as helmets, gloves, harnesses, and safety shoes. 

• Construction Site Safety: The decree includes specific provisions for construction sites, where the risk of accidents is high. 

Construction Site Safety: A Key Focus 

In construction sites, Legislative Decree 81/08 plays an even more critical role. Construction activities are among the most dangerous, with risks linked to falls from heights, collapses, machinery use, and exposure to hazardous substances. 

For this reason, the decree mandates the following: 

• Safety Operational Plan (POS): Each company must draft a plan outlining the safety measures to be adopted. 

• Safety and Coordination Plan (PSC): In more complex construction sites, it is mandatory to prepare a PSC to coordinate the various companies and ensure compliance with safety regulations. 

• Responsibilities of the Safety Coordinator: In construction sites, the coordinator is responsible for ensuring that companies comply with the rules set out by the decree. 

The Importance of Training 

One of the pillars of Decree 81/08 is the continuous training of workers. On construction sites, operators must be aware of the specific risks of their job and know how to prevent accidents. Lack of training is often one of the main causes of workplace injuries. 

Technology in Service of Safety 

With the advent of new technologies, compliance with Decree 81/08 can be simplified. Tools like drones, sensors, and construction site management software allow for real-time risk monitoring. These systems can detect anomalies, prevent accidents, and improve the efficiency of inspections. 

Penalties for Non-Compliance 

Compliance with Decree 81/08 is not just a matter of safety but also of legality. Companies that do not comply with regulations risk severe penalties, both financial and criminal. Workplace inspections are frequent, and violations can lead to work suspensions or site closures.