Occupational Safety and Health: Slovenia on the Path to Safer Workplaces

In 2018, Slovenia adopted the Resolution on the National Programme of Occupational Safety and Health 2018–2027, which serves as the fundamental strategic document in this field. The resolution was developed as a response to modern challenges and changes in the work environment—from technological innovations to demographic shifts and new forms of work. Its primary purpose is to connect all stakeholders within the occupational safety and health system and to create work environments that preserve workers' health throughout their entire working life.

Concrete Goals for Safer Work

The resolution sets clear and measurable goals. The first strategic goal is ambitious: a 20% reduction in workplace accidents by 2027. Additionally, the strategy focuses on the safe use of hazardous chemicals, their substitution with safer alternatives, and the effective implementation of professional occupational safety tasks.

What is a Workplace Accident?

According to Slovenian legislation, a workplace accident is defined as an unforeseen event that occurs in the workplace or work environment while performing work or as a result of work, and which causes injury to the worker. This definition, as outlined in the Health and Safety at Work Act (ZVZD-1), is crucial for understanding and recording occupational risks. 

Types of Workplace Accidents

 Various types of accidents can occur in the workplace, and they can be categorized into several groups:

• Slips, trips, and falls are among the most common workplace accidents. They can happen when an employee slips on a wet surface, trips over an obstacle, or falls due to an uneven surface. Poor lighting and cluttered workspaces increase the risk of such incidents.
• Accidents involving work equipment occur when an employee is injured while using machinery, tools, or other equipment. Causes may include equipment malfunction, lack of proper training, or inadequate safety measures.
• Fires and explosions in the workplace may result from improper handling of flammable substances, faulty equipment, or insufficient safety protocols.
• Traffic accidents happen when an employee is involved in an incident while driving a company vehicle. Causes can include lack of training, fatigue, or distractions while driving. Injuries can range from minor cuts and bruises to severe spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, or even death.

 Causes of Workplace Accidents

Workplace accidents can be caused by various factors, such as:

• Lack of training
• Inadequate work equipment
• Poor safety standards
• Communication failures
• Fatigue
• Stress

Other contributing factors include poor ergonomics, inadequate maintenance of equipment and facilities, and hazardous working conditions. Employers must take a proactive approach to safety, identifying potential risks in a timely manner and addressing them appropriately to ensure a safe work environment for all employees. 

Key Data from the 2024 Report of the Labour Inspectorate of the Republic of Slovenia

In 2024, occupational safety and health inspectors identified 9,396 violations. Among the most common violations were issues related to risk assessment procedures, the organization and safety of outdoor workplaces—especially construction sites—and the provision of workers’ health protection. Nearly 25% of all violations in 2024 related to inadequate risk assessment content.

In the same year, the Labour Inspectorate received 1,300 reports concerning occupational safety and health, which were addressed accordingly. Most of these reports referred to irregularities in ensuring workplace safety and health, while some were forwarded to other competent authorities.

Employers reported 14,349 work-related accidents in 2024, including 16 fatal and 916 serious injuries. In addition to monitoring workplace accidents, the Inspectorate also records hazardous occurrences that cause significant material damage or pose direct threats to workers' health and safety. In 2024, employers reported 47 hazardous incidents and 7 cases of recognized occupational diseases.

Workplace Accidents

Through the Slovenian portal of business entities system, employers reported a total of 14,349 workplace accidents in 2024:

• 12,383 occurred at regular workplaces
• 606 occurred at temporary workplaces
• 26 were linked to remote work
• 318 occurred while working abroad
• 368 happened during business travel
• 103 occurred during employer-organized commutes

For some incidents, the location was not specified. Excluding commuting accidents, there were 16 fatal, 13,314 minor, and 916 serious injuries among the 14,246 registered cases.

In comparison, in 2023, employers reported 14,543 workplace accidents, including:

• 19 fatal
• 973 serious
• 13,551 minor injuries

Of these, 12,446 occurred at regular workplaces, 626 at temporary ones. Additionally, 22 accidents were linked to remote work, 358 to working abroad, 423 to business travel, and 98 during employer-organized commuting.