When it comes to the employment landscape in North Macedonia, it’s crucial to understand not only the obligations of employers but also the rights and responsibilities of employees regarding their safety and health at work. In this blog post, we will explore when an employee can rightfully refuse to perform certain work tasks in North Macedonia, emphasizing the importance of workplace safety and adherence to the law.

Understanding Employee Rights in North Macedonia

In North Macedonia, just like in many other countries, employees have the right to a safe and healthy working environment. It is not only their right but also their obligation to take care of their own safety, as well as the safety and health of their colleagues and anyone else affected by their work activities. This is in accordance with the training and instructions provided by their employer.

Safety Measures and Employee Training

To ensure workplace safety, employees must be well-acquainted with safety and health measures specific to their job roles. Proper training should be provided to empower them to apply these measures effectively. However, there are situations where an employee can refuse to perform certain work tasks, and this typically revolves around immediate danger to their health or life due to the absence of adequate safety measures.

When Can an Employee Refuse Work Tasks?

If an employee finds themselves exposed to immediate danger without the necessary safety measures in place, they have the right to refuse to carry out the task. In such a case, it’s essential for the employee to request the removal of the danger from their employer. The employer is legally obligated to take prompt action to address the safety concern.

Reporting Irregularities

In situations where the employer fails to remove the danger or doesn’t comply with the recommendations of an authorized health institution, the employee can escalate the matter to the competent inspectorate. This is a crucial step to ensure that the workplace adheres to the necessary safety standards.

The Right to Information and Health Examinations

Employees also have the right to refuse work tasks if they were not adequately informed about all potential dangers and damages that may occur in the workplace. Additionally, if the employer fails to provide the required health examination as mandated by law, the employee can exercise their right to refuse work until these requirements are met.

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Note: The above does not constitute legal advice and in no way can be accepted or understood as an instruction to act in a specific case. Each legal situation has its own characteristics that should be reviewed at separately, and for that reason we recommend that you contact a professional – a lawyer – for legal advice.