Construction Worker Safety – Labor Inspection Continues National Controls
Fines Exceed 7.4 Million RON in a Single Week
The Romanian Labor Inspection has concluded the second national control campaign this summer in the construction worker safety sector. Over the course of one week, from August 12 to 18, 2025, inspectors checked hundreds of construction sites and companies for two major issues: undeclared work and workplace safety.
The results are alarming. Out of 629 labor-related inspections, 291 individuals were found working without legal employment contracts. Fines for this issue exceeded 5.5 million RON. In total, including warnings and penalties for other violations, the total value of fines surpassed 7.4 million RON.
Regarding occupational health and safety (OHS), the situation is equally serious. Inspectors reviewed 558 employers and identified over 700 non-compliances. In 15 cases, activities were completely suspended, and seven pieces of equipment were taken out of service due to major risks. The most common problems included:
- Lack of protective equipment for work at heights;
- Absence of internal OHS instructions;
- Missing authorizations for hazardous activities.
Lack of Clear Procedures and Training
These results highlight something many in the industry already know: construction is a high-risk sector where the absence of clear procedures and proper training can quickly lead to accidents or serious financial losses. The legislative framework is strict, and authorities seem determined to enforce it rigorously.
Beyond the fines themselves, these campaigns underline the importance of a well-organized system. This is exactly what international standards, such as ISO 45001 for occupational health and safety or ISO 14001 for environmental protection, require: clear rules, regular training, risk assessments, and preventive plans. Not just to tick a box, but to prevent problems that, as reports show, are still frequent.
Authorities have announced that inspections will continue. For employers, the message is simple: the lack of procedures and internal controls is not only a legal issue—it is a direct risk to people and business.
Recommendations for Construction Companies
To avoid the problems identified by inspectors, construction firms can implement a few basic measures:
- Regular employee training – not only at hiring but also periodically, especially when new equipment or procedures are introduced.
- Clear risk plans – with defined responsibilities and step-by-step procedures.
- Checked and maintained equipment – with documented inspections and repairs.
- Up-to-date authorizations and competencies – for high-risk work, such as working at heights or on electrical installations.
- Regular internal inspections – to identify issues before official controls.
Implementing clear procedures, continuous employee training, and risk monitoring are essential for a safe work environment. Establishing an occupational health and safety management system and obtaining ISO 45001 certification provides a structured framework to reduce risks and protect workers’ health, emphasizing responsibility and prevention. Following these principles, companies can make construction site safety a consistent practice, creating a more stable and secure working environment for all employees.
