The Transport Sector Under Scrutiny

Adverit AntwerpAntwerp, Belgium

The transport sector, including courier services, will be subject to announced spot checks during the month of February. These spot checks take place within the framework of the “2022 action plan to combat social fraud” and are mainly aimed at those who violate social regulations and engage in undeclared work. In addition, the social inspectors will also continue to monitor compliance with the COVID-19 measures.

Announced spot checks will also follow in other sectors, namely:

  • May 2022: construction sector
  • July 2022: hospitality sector
  • September 2022: agriculture and horticulture sector
  • November 2022: car washes in major cities

The social inspection services are therefore planning national spot checks in the transport sector this month. These announced checks are mainly informative and preventive in nature, but the inspection services can nevertheless intervene and impose fines if they detect serious infringements.

After all, the social inspection services have the right to enter a company at any time, whether during the day or at night.

As already mentioned above, the spot checks are announced. These will usually be announced a few weeks in advance, and a list of matters that the inspection services wish to examine during their visit may already be communicated at that time. Please note, however, that providing this list in advance is not mandatory.

The social inspection services have far-reaching powers that could potentially jeopardize the continuation of business operations.

Last but not least: as an employer, you have the right to be assisted during these inspections. Preparing for this inspection is also of great importance, as a good start is half the battle. The social inspection services generally have no objection to the assistance of a lawyer. This is in fact usually considered an added value.

However, do not forget that social legislation must be complied with at all times, and it is the unannounced inspections that help ensure this.

If you have received notice of an inspection and/or have any questions, or if you wish to be assisted, do not hesitate to contact us at contact@alisadvocaten.be.

Related practice areas

Transport law Labour law

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