What does the law say?
To determine the level of training within the internal service, companies are classified into four groups (A, B, C or D) according to the number of workers and the extent of the risk. Internal prevention advisors in higher-risk companies (groups A and B) must follow additional training of level I or II, depending on the group and on whether they head the internal service.
Required training level per group
| Group | Number of workers | Head of internal service | Other prevention advisors |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | > 1000 workers * | Level I | Level II |
| B | 200 – 1000 workers | Level II | Basic knowledge (level III) |
| C | < 200 workers | Basic knowledge (level III) | Basic knowledge (level III) |
| D | < 20 workers | Basic knowledge (level III) | Basic knowledge (level III) |
Basic knowledge (level III)
Legal text
“Prevention advisors who have followed a basic course at an accredited institution are deemed to meet the required basic knowledge.” All prevention advisors must have at least sufficient basic knowledge (level III). This basic course comprises at least 40 hours and is intended mainly for those not required to follow additional training.
Additional training (level I, II)
Legal text
“The additional training is modular and comprises a multidisciplinary basic module and a specialisation module of the first or second level.” The basic module lasts at least 120 hours; the level I specialisation module at least 280 hours and level II at least 90 hours. The basic module is multidisciplinary, so all advisors follow the same one; the specialisation modules differ by discipline and level.
Refresher training
Legal text
“Prevention advisors have the right and the duty to keep improving. The refresher is organised annually and covers important changes or new provisions on well-being at work and the progress of science and technique.” The refresher obligation applies to all advisors; for levels I and II, the annual three-day refresher is a strongly recommended good practice.