Q. What are an employer’s main responsibilities for ensuring workplace health and safety in Turkey?
Under Article 4 of Law No. 6331, employers must ensure a safe working environment, prevent risks, provide training, conduct risk assessments, and supply protective equipment. Safety must be integrated into all work activities and processes.
Q. Are employers required to perform regular risk assessments under Turkish occupational safety law?
Yes. Article 10 of Law No. 6331 mandates that all employers conduct periodic risk assessments and update them in case of changes to workplace conditions. These assessments must be documented and reviewed regularly.
Q. When must a company hire an occupational safety specialist or workplace doctor in Turkey?
Per Articles 6 and 7, every employer must appoint a certified Occupational Safety Specialist and Workplace Doctor, depending on the company’s industry risk level and number of employees. Even companies with one employee must comply.
Q. What type of safety training must employers provide to employees by law?
Article 17 of Law No. 6331 requires employers to give occupational health and safety training at the start of employment, when transferring duties, or if workplace risks change. The training must be documented and tailored to job hazards.
Q. Can employees refuse to work in unsafe conditions under Turkish labor law?
Yes. Under Article 13 of Law No. 6331, employees can refuse work if there’s serious and imminent danger, after notifying their supervisor or safety committee. They cannot be penalized for this and are entitled to full wages during the stoppage.
Q. How should work accidents or occupational diseases be reported by employers?
According to Article 14, work accidents must be reported to SGK (Social Security Institution) within 3 working days. Occupational diseases must be reported immediately upon diagnosis. Employers must keep all records and investigation reports.
Q. What compensation or support is an injured employee entitled to under occupational safety law?
Injured employees receive medical coverage, temporary incapacity benefits, or permanent disability compensation via SGK. If the employer is found negligent, they may also be liable for additional compensation under civil law.
Q. What penalties can employers face for violating workplace safety regulations in Turkey?
Under Article 26, employers may face administrative fines, criminal charges, or shutdown orders for non-compliance. Fines range from ₺3,000 to over ₺50,000, depending on the violation and company size.
Q. When is it mandatory to form a workplace health and safety committee in Turkey?
As stated in Article 22, employers with 50 or more employees and who operate for over 6 months must establish a Health and Safety Committee. This includes both employer and employee representatives and meets at least monthly.
Q. What special safety measures are required for pregnant workers under Turkish law?
Per Article 30, pregnant or nursing employees must be assigned lighter duties and are not allowed night shifts or overtime. Employers must adapt working conditions to ensure their health is not at risk and allow medical leave for checkups.
Q. What workplace protections must be provided for young workers under age 18?
Under Articles 30–31, young workers (ages 15–18) cannot work hazardous jobs, night shifts, or excessive hours. Employers must ensure age-appropriate tasks, health exams, and guardian consent, and follow the Ministry’s approved job list.
Q. How often should employers conduct emergency drills or equipment safety checks to comply with the law?
Article 11 requires employers to hold emergency drills at least once a year and inspect all safety equipment regularly. The frequency of checks may increase based on industry risk classification and must be recorded in safety logs.
