From 1 January 2026, the Working Environment Act § 4-3 will be clarified to include a non-exhaustive list of psychosocial work environment factors. While this does not introduce new requirements, it provides clearer guidance on what is covered.
The listed factors include:
- Unclear or conflicting demands
- Emotional strain, especially in work involving people
- Work pressure causing imbalance between tasks and time
- Lack of support and assistance
Psychosocial challenges are among the most common causes of sick leave. The amendment makes it easier for employees to point to specific conditions that require measures. For employers, the risk of whistleblowing and inspection cases increases.
Our recommendations
- Ensure that the Working Environment Committee (AMU) addresses psychosocial issues regularly.
- Conduct employee surveys covering the listed factors.
- Train managers in conflict management and handling emotionally demanding situations.
Elin Andreassen - Associate Lawyer
Elin specializes in labor law, providing expert support to Norwegian and international companies on employment-related matters. She also offers general business legal assistance and GDPR compliance services. Elin helps businesses navigate their obligations in Norway, including essential registration and reporting requirements. Elin graduated from the University of Oslo in the fall of 2022, completing her master's thesis in employment law on the individual post-effects of collective agreements. She gained experience as a trainee lawyer at Advokat Bratteng AS before joining Magnus Legal in February 2023 and has previously worked with legal aid at Gatejuristen.