site.bta Labour Inspectorate Head Assenova: Inspectorate Receives over 6,000 Reports, Pushes for Safety, Accountability in 2024

During the first nine months of this year, the General Labour Inspectorate (GLI) received 6,441 reports, primarily related to unpaid wages and compensation for work on public holidays or overtime, Executive Director Ekaterina Assenova shared in an interview with BTA's Borislava Bibinovska. This comes as the GLI prepares to celebrate its 117th anniversary on November 3.

Safety Concerns and Wage Delays

Assenova noted that that while most reports focused on unpaid wages, over 500 complaints concerned unsafe working conditions. "If you notice that your working conditions do not meet health and safety standards, report it to the Labour Inspectorate immediately," she urged. The GLI’s data also revealed delayed wages amounting to BGN 8.2 million in 2024, with over BGN 6.8 million recovered following inspector interventions.

Combating Undeclared Work

In 2024, the GLI conducted rapid inspections to identify individuals working without employment contracts. Assenova noted a decrease in undeclared work cases, with 2,543 identified this year compared to 2,737 last year. She stressed the importance of reporting undeclared work, as such arrangements lead to forfeiting labour and social security rights.

Preventing Workplace Accidents

The GLI recorded 44 fatal work-related accidents and 47 non-work-related fatalities (e.g., heart attacks, strokes) in 2024. "Most accidents are preventable," Assenova said, urging vigilance in following workplace safety rules. She emphasized the agency’s commitment to reducing accident rates through campaigns like "Go home after work! Someone is waiting for you there."

Modernization and Future Projects

Assenova discussed ongoing modernization efforts, including using drones for inspections in hard-to-reach areas, and self-assessment questionnaires for employers to identify labour law violations. "We are committed to using modern technology and innovative practices to improve workplace safety and compliance," she affirmed. Additionally, the GLI’s international collaborations have earned praise, including recognition from the European Labour Authority.

Message to the Public

"The law permits every citizen to refuse tasks that endanger their life and health," Assenova reminded. She also expressed gratitude to labour inspectors, encouraging them to continue improving their skills and qualifications to meet the challenges ahead. "Our work safeguards the labour rights of workers in Bulgaria."