Miran Šinko, a co-owner of a family business in Skakovci, Prekmurje, expressed concerns regarding the financial liability following workplace accidents. Šinko stated that while adherence to established protocols is expected, accidents can occur regardless of precautions. He argued that imposing a €150,000 penalty on an employer when the employee failed to use mandated safety equipment is disproportionate, suggesting such a fine could severely damage the business.
The company in question has operated for over thirty years, specializing in roofing, facade work, and production, and employs 28 individuals. The business faced a significant incident several years ago involving an employee who was not secured to the roof and failed to utilize the safety belt, despite company regulations mandating its use during all roof work. Although the company successfully demonstrated that the employee’s negligence contributed to the accident, they were unable to establish evidence proving that the employer was at fault.
Šinko’s comments highlight the tension between corporate responsibility and employee adherence to safety standards when assessing liability in workplace accidents.
