Building in Finland? What You Need to Know About the Safety Card

Introduction: Why the Safety Card Matters

Finland is known for its high safety standards, especially in construction. Whether you’re a local worker or have just arrived from abroad, one rule applies to everyone: safety always comes first.

On a Finnish construction site, you’ll quickly hear about the Työturvallisuuskortti the Occupational Safety Card. This small card carries big importance. It’s more than just a piece of plastic; it’s proof that you understand the basics of workplace safety and that you can work responsibly alongside others.

If you’re planning to work in construction, maintenance, or industrial environments in Finland, here’s everything you need to know about getting and keeping your Safety Card.

1. What Is the Occupational Safety Card?

The Occupational Safety Card is a national certificate that shows you’ve completed official safety training. It’s designed to make sure everyone on a shared worksite, regardless of nationality or job title, knows the same safety rules.

The card is:

  • Issued by authorized organizations, such as Työturvakortit.fi.
  • Valid for 5 years after the training date.
  • Required for almost all construction workers, contractors, and even visitors entering construction sites.

In Finland, the Safety Card isn’t optional. Without it, you may not be allowed to enter a construction site at all.

2. What You Learn in the Safety Card Training

The one-day course gives you a strong foundation in occupational safety. You’ll learn to recognize risks, prevent accidents, and protect both yourself and your co-workers.

Key topics include:

  • Understanding Finnish occupational safety and health laws
  • Identifying and managing risks in the workplace
  • Cooperation and communication in shared worksites
  • Safe handling of tools, equipment, and materials
  • Emergency procedures: fire safety, first aid, and evacuation

3. How to Get Your Safety Card

Getting your official Safety Card through Työturvakortit.fi is simple and flexible – you can complete part of the training online and receive your TTK-approved Safety Card quickly.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Choose your training date
    Select a suitable training session from our website. All courses are officially approved by the Finnish Centre for Occupational Safety (TTK).
  2. Complete the first part in the Trainify app
    Start learning at your own pace in the Trainify mobile app. The app includes interactive exercises, videos, and real-life examples to make learning engaging and effective.
  3. Join the guided session online or in person
    Continue your training with a professional instructor. The session includes discussions, group work, and a final test to ensure solid understanding.
  4. Pass the test and get your official Safety Card
    After successfully completing the exam, you’ll receive an official digital Safety Card, instantly registered with TTK and ready to present to your employer.

4. Why It’s Legally and Professionally Important

Finland’s Occupational Safety and Health Act (738/2002) requires employers to make sure their workers have adequate safety training. The Safety Card is the easiest way to prove this.

Having the card shows that you:

  • Understand the basic safety standards in Finland
  • Take responsibility for your own and others’ well-being
  • Meet the legal requirements for working in shared workplaces

Employers appreciate workers who take safety seriously, so having a valid Safety Card also makes you a more attractive candidate when applying for jobs.

5. For Foreign Workers: Your Rights and Responsibilities

Finland treats all workers equally, regardless of nationality. You have the same rights to a safe and healthy workplace as any Finnish employee. Employers must:

  • Provide safety instructions in a language you understand
  • Pay equal wages for equal work
  • Make sure all workers receive necessary training, including the Safety Card course

By completing the training, you not only follow the law, you also protect yourself, your co-workers, and your career.

6. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced workers can make simple mistakes when it comes to safety card requirements. Avoid these pitfalls:

  • ❌ Starting work before getting your card
  • ❌ Assuming a card from another country is valid in Finland (it isn’t)
  • ❌ Forgetting to renew your card after 5 years
  • ❌ Thinking the training is only for beginners — safety awareness is a lifelong skill

Your First Step to Working Safely in Finland

Getting your Occupational Safety Card is the first and most important step toward a safe and successful construction career in Finland. It proves your professionalism, ensures compliance with Finnish law, and helps create safer worksites for everyone.

So before you step onto your next construction site, make sure your Safety Card is in your pocket, and your safety knowledge is up to date.

Ready to start building your future in Finland?
Enroll in an Occupational Safety Card course today and take your first step toward a safer, smarter career.