HMS cards for construction workers in Norway

The problem

Norwegian construction sites operate under strict health, safety and environment (HMS) rules. Every person physically present on a construction site — workers, supervisors, subcontractors — must carry a valid HMS card. This is not optional, not discretionary, and not something the main contractor can waive. Arbeidstilsynet (the Labour Inspection Authority) conducts unannounced site inspections, and workers without valid HMS cards are removed immediately.

Who needs an HMS card

Every person who performs work on a Norwegian construction site, regardless of nationality, employer location, or contract type. This includes: employees of Norwegian and foreign companies, self-employed contractors, temporary workers, and anyone entering the site to perform work. Visitors and inspectors are exempt.

How to order

The employer orders HMS cards through an approved card provider. The largest is Infotjenester. Requirements: the employer must be registered in Enhetsregisteret (Norwegian business register); each worker must have a D-number or f-number; a passport photo of the worker; employment relationship confirmed.

Processing time

Standard processing: 5–10 business days from the date the provider receives complete documentation. Express processing may be available but is not guaranteed. Critical planning point: if workers arrive without HMS cards, they cannot enter the construction site — plan card applications as part of project mobilization, not as an afterthought.

What the card shows

Worker's photo, full name, date of birth, D-number/f-number, employer name, employer organization number, and card validity period. The card is personal and non-transferable.

Consequences of non-compliance

Workers without valid HMS cards: removed from site immediately. Employers: fines from Arbeidstilsynet, potential ban from the site, reputational damage with the main contractor. Main contractors are liable for ensuring all persons on their sites hold valid cards — this liability flows up the chain.

Connection to other requirements

HMS cards are one piece of the construction compliance puzzle. Workers also need: D-number and tax card, A1 certificate (if keeping social security in the home country), employment contract meeting Norwegian requirements, and — if the sector's minimum wage is generalized — wages meeting or exceeding the statutory rate. The main contractor typically verifies all of these before allowing site access.