Recent amendments published in the Official Gazette regarding the organization of the Labour Inspectorate introduce the possibility for labour inspectors to wear portable audio-video recording devices (body-worn cameras) and to record activities carried out at the inspected workplace without the consent of the persons concerned. The measure is justified by the legislator by the need to conduct fair, objective, and safe inspections, aiming both at accurately documenting findings and at preventing conflict situations or potential harm to inspectors while performing their legal duties.
From a practical perspective, the use of these devices provides a more transparent inspection framework and reduces the risk of disputes regarding the content recorded in the inspection report. Audio-video recordings can protect labour inspectors in tense situations and help clarify facts in the event of subsequent challenges. For employers, this new context means that interactions with the inspection authority must be handled with an increased level of professionalism, given that discussions, behaviors, and working conditions may be fully documented.
In order to manage Labour Inspectorate controls without unnecessary risks, employers are advised to designate clear contact persons for relations with inspectors, ensure orderly and safe access to work premises, and avoid any situations that could generate tension or misinterpretations. Training key personnel on how inspections are conducted and maintaining open cooperation with inspectors contribute not only to compliance with legal obligations, but also to the creation of a safe, fair, and risk-free inspection environment for both the company and the authority’s representatives.