OR and MR

 The “ondernemingsraad (OR)” and : the medezeggenschapsraad (MR)” are two important bodies in the Netherlands that represent the interests of employees in the workplace.

“Ondernemingsraad (OR)”
Companies with 50 or more employees need to have a “OR”. This board is composed of elected representatives from both management and employees.
This board has to give an advice in case of important decisions affecting the company, such as:
– mergers and acquisitions
– major investments
– workforce restructuring
– working conditions
In this way the workers have “a voice” to be heard on top level.

Medezeggenschapsraad (MR):
The MR is also a specific board. It is established in public and educational institutions with 50 or more employees.
Its function is almost similar to the one of the OR, but with a focus on issues specific to the public sector

Both the OR and the MR:
Play an important role in promoting democracy and transparency in the workplace.
Overall, the OR and the MR are important institutions that help to protect the rights of employees and promote a more just and equitable workplace.

ARBO

In the Netherlands, “ARBO” is not actually an organization itself, but an abbreviation for “Arbeidsomstandigheden” which translates to “Working Conditions.” It refers to the entire system of workplace safety and health in the Netherlands. The central information point is:

www.arboportaal.nl

Unfortunately information is only given in Dutch
This information points gives information on the Dutch law in relation to
– safety at work;
– how to deal with health problems
– how to study possible risks at the place where you are working
– how to promote safe working