Tor-Børge Bendiksen

Sickness absence is a major cost for Norwegian companies, and there is a lot to be gained for organisations that have control of the regulations. It's also important to ensure fair and efficient treatment of employees, while protecting the company from potential pitfalls.

As the calendar year draws to an end, employers and the employees face questions regarding the handling of unused holidays. This can lead to financial and operational challenges if not managed correctly.

On July 1, 2024, a legislative change that establishes new requirements for the content of employment contracts will come into effect. This amendment expands the list of information that must be included in employment contracts entered into after July 1. Additionally, employees will be able to request that existing employment contracts be updated or supplemented. Therefore, the legislative change means that employers must update their templates for employment contracts and prepare for existing contracts to be updated or supplemented.

On February 28, 2024, the Supreme Court issued a decision that helps to clarify the scope of an employer's duty to exempt an employee from night shifts if the individual needs this for health, so-cial, or other significant welfare reasons. The case concerned the employee's claim to retain their job, without night shifts.

The Norwegian labour authorities have tightened the rules for hiring workers from temporary employment agencies.