April 28: World Day for Safety and Health at Work

Céline Arétin, culture, women's issues and environment correspondent, April 28, 2025

Legal obligations of employers

Under French labor law, employers are required to guarantee safety and protect the physical and mental health of their employees (article L4121-1). They must assess risks, implement prevention measures, adapt workstations, and train staff. They must also establish an annual prevention action plan and consult the Social and Economic Committee (CSE) for any decision affecting working conditions. Under article L4741-1 of the Labor Code, any breach of health and safety rules is punishable by a fifth-class fine, of up to 1,500 euros per offense, rising to 3,000 euros for repeat offenses.

Single Risk Assessment Document (DUER)

The DUER is a mandatory tool in all companies from the very first employee onward. It centralizes the identification, analysis and prioritization of occupational risks. For example, in an auto repair shop, it must mention risks related to inhaling exhaust fumes, particle projection during grinding, and awkward postures. It must be updated at least once a year, and systematically after any significant change. The DUER serves as the basis for a prevention action plan. It can be consulted by employees, CSE members, labor inspectors and occupational physicians.

Occupational risks

Occupational risks refer to all the hazards an employee may be exposed to as part of their job. Physical risks include falls from height, manual handling, or repetitive movements. Chemical risks involve exposure to solvents, paints or harmful dust in industrial or construction sectors. Biological risks affect hospital staff (contact with blood, bodily fluids). Psychosocial risks include chronic stress, workplace bullying, or work overload, common in service-sector jobs. Equipment-related risks include accidents caused by poorly maintained machinery, such as a hydraulic press without a safety device. Finally, road risks affect sales staff or delivery workers exposed to traffic accidents.