Social Labor Inspectorate within The Structure of Labor Law Compliance Supervisory Authorities

Abstract

In accordance with Article 185 of the Polish Labor Code, social labor inspectorate is tasked with the exercise of social control over the observance of labor law, including adherence to provisions regarding occupational health and safety. However, even a brief preliminary analysis of the Act on Social Labor Inspectorate (along with an analysis of various standpoints expressed in the doctrine) allows for a conclusion that social labor inspectorate does not, in fact, exercise control over the observance of labor law. Instead, it pursues supervision over adherence to labor law. This article aims to determine the position of social labor inspectorate within the structure of authorities supervising the observance of labor law, including in particular an attempt at determining the relationship between social labor inspectorate and non-consolidated administrative authorities. This issue has not previously been subject of an in-depth analysis in labor law doctrine therefore, this article provides insight on the influence of social labor inspectorate on a large-scale perspective.