The labor law: obligations for employers and development opportunities for employees

Lifelong learning is critical for businesses because technologies and food science are evolving at a rapid pace. Therefore, it is important to ensure that your employees are constantly acquiring new skills and improving existing ones. This allows them to keep up with the rapidly evolving economy and society. In Belgium, the government has recognized this importance through the labor law.

The labor law

As of 2024, under this labor law, every full-time employee in companies with more than 20 employees is entitled to at least 5 days of training per year. In addition, these companies are also expected to establish an annual training plan.

Some exceptions also apply here. Full-time employees in companies with 10-19 employees are entitled to at least 1 day of training per year. While companies with fewer than 10 employees are excluded from this requirement.

The annual training plan

Companies with more than 20 employees are required to prepare a training plan. This outlines the competencies needed to perform certain functions within your company and how your employees can acquire these competencies. These training opportunities offer your employees growth prospects. The training plan must be submitted annually before March 31.

Within Précon, we can help develop and create training plans. Here we take into account the importance of the subject and the repetition frequency. An annual schedule is advised so that all your employees have a logical sequence of topics. This can possibly be combined with the purchase of our (e-)learning subscription.

(E-)Learnings from Précon as a training opportunity

At Précon we offer different (e-)learnings tailored to your company. For example, on the one hand we can provide training in your company and on the other hand you can choose between the different e-learnings. The latter form offers a lot of flexibility and convenience, as your employees can go through and process the training at their own pace.

Various e-learning modules are offered, such as training on food safety (HACCP), food labeling and food fraud prevention. Moreover, these e-learning modules can be customized using practical examples from your own business situation. Some of our offerings are briefly explained below:

• Food Safety (HACCP): This module covers the main principles of food safety and HACCP in the workplace. This involves working on risk awareness using practical examples.
• Label smart: This module zooms in further on the legislation surrounding food labeling and gives your employees the necessary basic knowledge. Again, several practical examples are used.
• Food defense and food fraud: This module covers the important aspects of countering food fraud. It describes how to prevent malicious actions or intentional contamination, among other things, as a company.

Individual training right

The introduction of the individual training right under Belgian labor law ensures that employees have the opportunity for continuous development. This has a positive effect on their well-being and growth, and can also increase the company's competitiveness.

Want to know more?

Want more information about our training opportunities? Or how we can help create a training plan? Contact us at info@precongroup.com or +3236160869