Health and Safety at Work in Bulgaria: A Guide for Employers

Every employer in Bulgaria, regardless of size or industry, has a legal duty to protect the health and safety of their workers. The main piece of legislation is the Health and Safety at Work Act (Закон за здравословни и безопасни условия на труд), which has been in force since 1997 and has been amended several times. This guide explains the core obligations and how to meet them in practice.

Who Is Responsible?

The Act places primary responsibility on the employer. Any natural or legal person who employs workers, including sole traders and companies, must ensure a safe working environment. Employers must designate one or more employees to handle health and safety matters, and they may need to engage external services if they lack in-house expertise.

Conducting a Risk Assessment

A risk assessment is the foundation of workplace safety. Employers must systematically identify hazards, evaluate the risks they pose to workers and others, and implement preventive measures. The assessment should cover all work activities, equipment, chemicals, and the general work environment. It must be documented and reviewed regularly, especially after accidents, changes in processes, or new equipment.

Providing Training and Information

All employees must receive adequate health and safety training. This includes an initial induction and ongoing instruction whenever tasks or equipment change. Training should cover emergency procedures, safe use of machinery, handling of hazardous substances, and correct use of protective gear. Information must be provided in a language workers understand.

Supplying Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Where risks cannot be eliminated by other means, employers must provide suitable personal protective equipment free of charge. This includes items like safety helmets, goggles, gloves, high-visibility clothing, and respiratory protection. Employers are also responsible for ensuring PPE is properly maintained, stored, and replaced when necessary.

Health Surveillance and Medical Checks

In certain sectors, such as construction, mining, or work with chemicals, employers must arrange periodic medical examinations for workers. This helps detect early signs of occupational illness and ensures employees remain fit for their duties. The specific requirements depend on the risk level of the job.

Reporting Accidents and Incidents

All work-related accidents, regardless of severity, must be recorded in an accident book. Serious accidents, defined by the law, must be reported to the Labour Inspectorate. Employers should investigate the causes and take corrective action to prevent recurrence.

Keeping Records

Employers must maintain documentation related to risk assessments, training, PPE issue, medical checks, and accident reports. These records should be kept for a minimum period (typically three years, but longer for certain types) and made available for inspection by authorities upon request.

Employee Responsibilities

Workers also have duties under the law. They must follow safety instructions, use protective equipment correctly, report hazards, and participate in training. However, the ultimate responsibility for providing a safe workplace rests with the employer.

Complying with health and safety regulations is not only a legal requirement but also a key factor in productivity and staff wellbeing. A well-implemented safety programme reduces absences, lowers insurance costs, and builds trust within the team.