Systematic work environment management 2026 – SAM according to AFS 2023:1 step by step

Short answer: Systematic Work Environment Management (SAM) means that the employer must continuously examine the work environment, assess risks, implement measures, and follow up on the results. AFS 2023:1 has been in effect since January 1, 2025, and must be integrated into daily operations.

What is SAM?

SAM is the employer's practical management system for the work environment. It covers physical, organizational, and social conditions and must function both in normal operation and when business operations change. Work environment management should therefore not be limited to an annual safety inspection.

A functional SAM cycle

1. Examine. Gather input through safety inspections, near-misses, accidents, dialogue, measurements, and change analyses.
2. Assess risks. Evaluate probability and consequences and document risks that require action.
3. Take action. Eliminate risks immediately whenever possible. Other measures should be entered into an action plan with a responsible person and a deadline.
4. Follow up. Verify that the measures have had the intended effect and that no new risks have been created.

Policy, routines, and task allocation

Work environment management requires clear roles. The employer can delegate tasks related to the work environment but retains overall responsibility. Anyone assigned tasks needs sufficient authority, resources, and knowledge.

Risk assessment during change

Planned changes, such as a new organization, new machinery, altered working hours, relocation, or new digital working methods, should be risk-assessed before the change is implemented. A retrospective risk assessment defeats the very purpose of preventive work.

Remote work is also included

The Swedish Work Environment Authority's regulations clarify that SAM also applies when work is performed remotely, such as in the employee's home. The employer must therefore have routines to capture ergonomic, organizational, and social risks even outside the regular workplace.

Near-misses, accidents, and learning

Near-misses are an important source of information. By investigating underlying causes instead of just noting the event, the business can prevent future harm. The action plan should distinguish between immediate corrections and long-term preventive measures.

Annual follow-up

Systematic work environment management must be followed up regularly. A structured annual review can verify whether routines are being used, whether risk assessments are being performed, whether action plans are being completed, whether task allocation is functioning, and if there are new needs for training or resources.

Common shortcomings

• risk assessments without a responsible person or deadline
• policy that is not translated into practical routines
• work environment tasks delegated without authority and resources
• changes implemented before risk assessment
• near-misses reported but not analyzed
• annual follow-up becoming a checklist without improvement measures

See Mallbutiken's complete SAM work environment package in Word, PDF, and Excel.

FAQ

Does SAM apply to small companies?

Yes, the fundamental responsibility applies to the employer. The extent of the required documentation is influenced by factors such as the size and risks of the operation.

Can HR be responsible for all work environment management?

HR can coordinate, but the work environment must be integrated into management and line operations. The employer retains their responsibility even when tasks are delegated.

Which regulations apply in 2026?

AFS 2023:1 is the fundamental regulation for SAM. Other current AFS regulations may set more specific requirements depending on the risks in the operation.

Official source: The Swedish Work Environment Authority, AFS 2023:1.

The article provides general information and does not replace legal advice on the work environment.