Workplace Health and Safety in Switzerland

Employer Obligations

The employer must take all necessary measures (technical, organisational, personal) to protect workers' physical and mental health (ArG Art. 6). This includes: risk assessments, ergonomic workstations, noise/chemical protection, adequate rest periods, protection from harassment and bullying, and provision of personal protective equipment (PPE) at no cost to the employee. Companies subject to ArG are regularly inspected by SECO and cantonal authorities. Non-compliance can result in fines and mandatory measures.

SUVA and Occupational Diseases

SUVA (Suva, Schweizerische Unfallversicherungsanstalt) is the main accident insurer for commercial and industrial businesses. It provides: accident insurance, accident prevention advisory services, workplace inspections and occupational disease recognition. Occupational diseases listed in UVG Annex 1 (noise-induced hearing loss, asbestosis, chemical skin conditions, respiratory diseases) are covered by UVG. Filing an occupational disease claim: via the treating physician or directly with SUVA.

Special Protections

Specific protections: pregnant and breastfeeding employees are exempt from night work, exposure to harmful substances and heavy physical work, the employer must provide an equivalent day role or pay 80% of salary if unavailable. Young workers (under 18): restricted hours, no night work, no dangerous machines without supervision. Right to refuse dangerous work: employees can refuse work that poses an imminent and serious health risk if the employer has not provided adequate protection, this right is protected (not grounds for dismissal).

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Frequently Asked Questions

Who pays for safety equipment in Swiss workplaces?

Always the employer. Personal protective equipment (hard hats, gloves, protective shoes, hearing protection) is provided and paid for by the employer. Any contractual clause making the employee pay for mandatory PPE is invalid.

What is an occupational disease in Switzerland?

A disease caused or significantly aggravated by the professional activity, listed in UVG Annex 1. Common examples: noise-induced hearing loss, asbestosis, contact dermatitis from chemicals. To qualify for UVG compensation, the disease must be on the list or evidence must show a >50% occupational causation.

Can I refuse dangerous work in Switzerland?

Yes, if the work poses an imminent, serious health risk and the employer has not provided adequate protection. This right derives from ArG and CO Art. 328. A dismissal for exercising this right in good faith would be wrongful.