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Who needs HSE courses?

HSE (Health, Safety, and Environment) courses are relevant for various types of individuals and organizations, depending on industry, position, and responsibilities. In Norway, HSE training is required by law for employers, and a number of occupational groups require specialized training. In this article, we provide a comprehensive overview of who needs HSE training, what legal requirements apply, and how you can easily complete the training online.

Who is required to take an HSE course?

1. Employers and Managers

  • All employers are required to provide HSE training, as stipulated in Section 3-5 of the Working Environment Act. This applies regardless of industry or the number of employees.
  • Senior and middle managers should also have HSE knowledge in order to implement and monitor the company's HSE system.
  • This obligation is personal and cannot be delegated to others. This means that the general manager must complete the course personally.
  • HSE courses for managers cover topics such as systematic HSE work, risk assessment, internal controls, and an employer’s responsibilities under the Working Environment Act.

2. Safety Representative

  • Safety representatives and members of the occupational health and safety committee must complete a mandatory HSE course, which must be tailored to the organization's needs. This requirement is described in Section 6-5 of the Working Environment Act.
  • The safety representative training course is typically 40 hours long and covers the safety representative's rights, duties, and role in HSE work.
  • All businesses with 5 or more employees must have a safety representative. Smaller businesses may agree on alternative arrangements, but training is recommended in any case.

3. Employees in high-risk industries

  • People who work in high-risk industries, such as construction, manufacturing, healthcare, or transportation, need specialized HSE training to prevent accidents and ensure a safe work environment.
  • In the construction industry, this may include courses on fall protection, scaffolding, hazardous tools, and work zone signage.
  • The Building Contractor Regulations set forth specific requirements regarding SHA (Safety, Health, and Working Environment) expertise for everyone involved in construction and civil engineering projects.

4. New Hires

  • New employees should receive basic HSE training as part of their orientation to the company, to learn about procedures, risks, and safety measures.
  • Employers are responsible for ensuring that all new employees receive the necessary training before they begin work, especially in roles involving physical risk.

5. People with specific roles

  • People who work with chemicals or hazardous machinery, or who are responsible for fire safety, often need specialized health, safety, and environment (HSE) training.
  • Examples include courses on diisocyanates, noise, and excavation and trenching.

6. Self-Employed Individuals

  • Self-employed individuals who have employees or work in hazardous environments are also required to familiarize themselves with the HSE regulations and take training courses.
  • Sole proprietorships with employees have the same obligations as other employers under the Working Environment Act.

Legal Requirements and Regulations

Several laws and regulations govern HSE training in Norway:

  • Work Environment Act § 3-5 – Requires employers to provide HSE training
  • Section 6-5 of the Working Environment Act – Requirements for the Training of Safety Representatives
  • Internal Control Regulations – Require systematic HSE work and documentation of training
  • Building Owner Regulations – Specific Safety Requirements for Construction and Civil Engineering Projects
  • Regulations on Organization, Management, and Employee Participation – Training Requirements for the Use of Work Equipment
  • REACH Regulation (EU) 2020/1149, entry 74: Starting in August 2023, specific training will be required for work with diisocyanates (polyurethane, foam, epoxy, etc.). This requirement has been implemented in Norwegian law through the REACH Regulations.

It is important to note that HSE training can be conducted as an online course. Whether the training can be conducted digitally must be assessed based on the specific role, job duties, risks, and any requirements for hands-on training.

Consequences of a Lack of HSE Training

Failure to meet the requirements for HSE training can have serious consequences:

  • Penalty Fees – The Norwegian Labor Inspection Authority may impose substantial fines for violations of training requirements
  • Work Suspension – In the event of serious violations, the Labor Inspection Authority may suspend operations until the issues are resolved
  • Insurance Implications – Lack of documentation can lead to problems with insurance settlements in the event of workplace accidents
  • Criminal Liability – In the most serious cases, a lack of training can result in personal criminal liability for management

Why are HSE courses important?

  • Preventing Accidents and Health Problems – Proper Training Reduces the Risk of Workplace Accidents and Occupational Diseases
  • Increasing Productivity Through a Better Work Environment – A Strong HSE Culture Contributes to Employee Well-Being and Lower Absenteeism Due to Illness
  • Comply with legal requirements and avoid fines —Documented training protects your business during inspections
  • Strengthen the company’s reputation – Customers and business partners value companies that take HSE seriously

The need for HSE training may vary, but the goal is always to ensure a safe and responsible work environment.

Frequently Asked Questions About HSE Courses

Does the general manager have to take an HSE course himself?

Yes, the obligation to undergo HSE training under Section 3-5 of the Working Environment Act is personal and cannot be delegated. The general manager must complete the course personally, regardless of whether the company has its own HSE manager.

Can HSE courses be taken online?

Online HSE courses can cover the theory, but the employer must ensure that the training as a whole is tailored to the employee’s role and the associated risks. There are no legal requirements for in-person attendance. Knowledge tests and course certificates document the theoretical portion; the company must also provide the necessary instruction and any required practical training.

How often must HSE training be renewed?

The law does not specify exactly how often the HSE course must be renewed, but the Norwegian Labor Inspection Authority recommends updating it whenever there are significant changes to regulations or the business. Many choose to renew the course every 3 to 5 years to keep their knowledge up to date.

Take an online HSE course at Komplett HMS

At Komplett HMS, you can complete the theory portion of many HSE courses online. The product page indicates whether a practical component or instructor-led session is required in addition. The courses are accessible on mobile phones, tablets, and PCs, and you’ll receive a course certificate immediately after passing the knowledge test. All courses are available in a variety of languages—perfect for companies with foreign employees.

We have a 5-star rating on Google and offer courses developed in collaboration with industry experts. Do you have questions about which course is right for your company? Contact us by phone at 466 66 467 or by email at kundeservice@kompletthms.no.

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