Workplace safety remains a critical priority for global industries, with evolving strategies to protect workers and enhance operational resilience. A recent initiative by Confsal, Italy’s National Confederation of Labor Unions, has reignited discussions about the role of the “preposto”—a designated supervisor responsible for implementing safety protocols. This proposal, unveiled at the 36th edition of Ambiente Lavoro in Bologna, emphasizes redefining the preposto’s responsibilities through collective bargaining to ensure safer, more equitable workplaces.
The preposto, a role mandated by Italian labor law, is tasked with monitoring compliance with safety regulations, intervening in hazardous situations, and fostering a culture of prevention. However, Confsal argues that current frameworks fail to adequately recognize the risks and pressures faced by these individuals. “The preposto is the linchpin of workplace safety, yet they often lack the tools, compensation, and legal protections needed to fulfill their duties effectively,” said Angelo Raffaele Margiotta, Confsal’s general secretary.
Confsal’s Vision: From Principle to Practice
Confsal’s proposal centers on embedding the preposto’s role into collective bargaining agreements, ensuring they receive financial compensation aligned with the risk levels of their sector, access to insurance, and legal support. This approach aims to shift workplace safety from a theoretical ideal to a tangible, actionable standard. “Safety must be lived, not just proclaimed,” Margiotta emphasized. “It requires concrete measures, including empowering the preposto to act decisively before risks escalate into tragedies.”
The union’s model seeks to bridge gaps in Italy’s fragmented labor regulations. By establishing universal protections for preposti across industries, Confsal aims to counteract the tendency to treat safety as a compliance checkbox. “Every worker, regardless of sector, deserves a preposto who is equipped to prevent incidents,” said Giovanni Luciano, president of Osl Confsal and author of the publication *La valorizzazione del Preposto nella Contrattazione Collettiva*. “Tutelage for this role strengthens the entire safety ecosystem.”
Challenges and Institutional Backing
Despite its merits, the proposal faces skepticism. Critics argue that sector-specific nuances complicate standardized solutions. However, Confsal highlights that its model prioritizes core protections while allowing flexibility for industry-specific adaptations. “We’re not dismissing sectoral differences,” Margiotta clarified. “Instead, we’re ensuring that fundamental safeguards—like fair compensation and legal recourse—are universally accessible.”
The initiative has garnered support from key stakeholders, including Inail (the Italian Workers’ Compensation Authority), the Chamber of Deputies’ Labor Commission, and industry representatives. Marcello Fiori, Inail’s general director, acknowledged the potential of aligning preposto responsibilities with institutional frameworks. “Collaboration between unions, employers, and regulators is essential to create a safety culture that protects both workers and businesses,” he said.
Looking Ahead: A Framework for Global Application
While rooted in Italy’s labor context, Confsal’s approach offers insights for global workplace safety reforms. The emphasis on empowering frontline supervisors, coupled with collective bargaining, underscores the importance of systemic support for risk mitigation. As industries worldwide grapple with evolving hazards—from AI-driven automation to climate-related impacts—the need for proactive, well-protected safety leadership becomes increasingly urgent.
For now, Confsal’s proposal remains a catalyst for dialogue. With continued advocacy and institutional collaboration, the preposto’s role could evolve from a regulatory obligation to a cornerstone of workplace resilience. “The goal is not just to prevent accidents,” Margiotta concluded. “It’s to build a future where safety is a shared responsibility, driven by informed, supported, and respected leaders.”