Information on Building Cards: A Necessary Tool in the Construction Industry

Construction card is a mandatory identification for all workers in the building and construction industry in Norway. The card, also known as the HSE card for construction and construction, is part of the measures to improve health, environment and safety (HSE) on Norwegian construction sites. It serves as proof that employees are registered in the Norwegian Labor Inspection Authority’s register, and that they have undergone the necessary HSE training.

What is a Building Card?

The construction card is a physical ID card that must be worn visibly by everyone working on a construction site. The card contains information about the employee, the employer and the company that issued the card. The card is part of the Norwegian HSE system, and it is intended to contribute to better control over who works on construction sites, as well as to ensure that all workers have the necessary HSE training.

Why is the building permit important?

• Safety: The construction card contributes to increased safety on the construction site by ensuring that all workers are familiar with and follow the necessary HSE rules. This reduces the risk of accidents and injuries.
• Traceability: The construction card makes it easy to track who is working on the construction site at all times, which is important for both safety and administration.
• Required by law: In Norway, it is required by law to have a building permit for everyone who works in the building and construction industry. Employers who do not comply with this law may risk fines and other sanctions.
• Reputation: Companies that follow the HSE rules and ensure that all employees have building permits show that they take safety seriously, which can improve their reputation.

How to Get a Building Permit?

To obtain a construction card, the employer must register the employee in the HMS card register. This is done through the website of the Norwegian Labor Inspection Authority or via approved issuers of building permits. The following steps usually need to be completed:

• Registration: The employer registers himself and his employees in the HMS card register.
• Ordering: After registration, the employer can order the building cards. This involves submitting the necessary information and possibly a photo of the employee.
• Reception: The cards are then produced and sent to the employer, who ensures that all employees receive their card.
• Carrying: The worker must carry the card visibly while on the construction site.

Control and Follow-up

The Norwegian Labor Inspection Authority carries out regular checks on construction sites to ensure that all workers have valid construction permits. Lack of a building permit can lead to a stoppage of work and financial penalties for the employer. It is therefore important for companies to keep track of their employees’ cards and ensure that all necessary registrations and updates are made in time.

Conclusion

Building permits are an essential part of the HSE work in the Norwegian building and construction industry. It ensures that all workers are registered, have the necessary training, and contributes to a safer and more organized construction site. By complying with building permit requirements, companies help promote a safety culture that protects both workers and the project’s progress.