Equinor CEO Anders Opedal has acknowledged unacceptable conditions for workers at the Norwegian energy giant's facilities. The admission follows revelations about how employees who report safety concerns face retaliation.
Opedal stated that workers speaking up about issues are sometimes told to remain silent. He described this practice as completely unacceptable. The problem connects directly to illegal employment contracts used throughout Equinor's operations.
Researchers, lawyers and union leaders warn these conditions create serious risks. Workers fear reporting unsafe situations or refusing dangerous work assignments.
The CEO revealed he personally understands these concerns from his early career working for an Equinor subcontractor. He recalled wondering whether it felt safe to speak up about safety issues.
Opedal emphasized that all workers should feel secure reporting problems. Yet numerous workers interviewed describe exactly the opposite experience. They fear being replaced if they raise safety concerns.
Approximately 100 workers across Equinor facilities reported this consistent pattern. The fear of removal prevents crucial safety reporting.
Opedal acknowledged a gap between company statements and worker experiences. He admitted Equinor has failed to create the safety culture it desires.
The company has launched an extraordinary review of work contracts at its facilities. However, Equinor won't directly examine the contracts itself. Instead, it's asking suppliers to document legal compliance.
Norwegian law requires temporary workers to have permanent base employment. But contracts reviewed show workers receiving five-week contracts repeatedly. This allows staffing agencies to drop workers immediately after assignments.
Some contracts show workers officially employed at 20-50% positions while working full-time hours. Employers must provide positions matching actual planned work hours.
Legal experts note the illegalities weren't hidden in complex contract details. They were plainly visible.
When asked why Equinor doesn't simply review contracts directly, Opedal cited verification processes and wanting to build a culture of compliance. He acknowledged this approach needs examination.
The company previously claimed privacy concerns prevented contract review. Legal experts dispute this, noting contract legality details aren't personal information.
Opedal emphasized the importance of trust in Norwegian working life while acknowledging Equinor shouldn't be naive. He referenced the "trust but verify" principle.
The situation reveals a troubling disconnect between corporate safety statements and on-ground worker experiences. Equinor faces the challenge of transforming its safety culture while maintaining production operations.