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ELA and EFBWW support the first joint inspection in Iceland with participation from Norway
The European Labour Authority (ELA), together with the European Federation of Building and Woodworkers (EFBWW) supported the first joint inspection carried out by the Icelandic trade unions and local authorities this week. Inspectors from Norway as well as social partners from several Nordic countries participated. This first cross-border joint inspection in Iceland focused on the construction sector, one of the most mobile and high-risk sectors in terms of labour mobility and compliance challenges across Europe.
The initiative marks the first-ever joint inspection operation involving ELA in Iceland. It also reflects the different realities of labour markets across Europe and enforcement models, where the role of trade unions in labour inspections and enforcement differs significantly from one country to another.
Construction is one of Europe’s most mobile and fragmented sectors, accounting for more than 30% of all posted workers in the EU. Long subcontracting chains, companies operating across borders and increased labour mobility make enforcement particularly challenging. Workers often move across several countries, employment relationships and intermediaries within short periods of time, while authorities are confronted with increasingly complex company structures operating across borders.
The inspection focused on verifying compliance with labour mobility and working conditions rules, including posting arrangements, social security coordination and occupational safety and health obligations.
The joint operation in Iceland demonstrates the added value of closer cooperation between labour inspectorates, authorities and trade unions in addressing the practical enforcement challenges linked to labour mobility in construction.