PERCO training (Safety Contact Person) is an essential step for all companies subject to occupational safety requirements in Switzerland, particularly within the MSST system (occupational physicians and occupational safety specialists). Intended for employees appointed to coordinate and monitor safety within their teams, this training provides the fundamental skills needed to identify risks, implement preventive measures and ensure compliance with Swiss legal requirements.
By meeting the criteria established by the Federal Coordination Commission for Occupational Safety (CFST), PERCO training covers the ten key elements of the MSST system and combines legal theory with practical exercises adapted to the real-world context of companies. It aims to strengthen the internal safety culture while facilitating dialogue between employers, employees and specialists.
This page provides a complete guide to PERCO training: its role, objectives, content, official recognition and tangible impact on accident prevention and MSST regulatory compliance. Whether you are an employer, an appointed employee or a safety manager, understanding and making the most of this training is key to ensuring a safe working environment that complies with Swiss legislation.
What is PERCO training?
Definition of PERCO training and the role of a PERCO in a company
PERCO training is the programme designed to train the Safety Contact Person (PERCO), a key participant in the MSST system in Switzerland. The PERCO is responsible for organising, coordinating and overseeing the implementation of occupational safety measures within the company or department. They act as an essential link between the employer, employees and occupational safety specialists (occupational physicians, engineers and occupational hygienists).
By taking on this role, the PERCO makes an active contribution to preventing occupational accidents and illnesses by anticipating risks, raising employee awareness and monitoring corrective actions in accordance with Swiss regulations. PERCO training provides the theoretical and practical foundations required to carry out these responsibilities effectively.
Who should take PERCO training? Target audience and relevant profiles
PERCO training is primarily intended for employees or managers appointed by the company to take on safety responsibilities, particularly in SMEs or small organisations without dedicated specialist resources. It is designed for people who may not have an initial background in safety or risk management but who must contribute to MSST compliance.
Typical profiles include:
- Department or team managers appointed as PERCOs
- Employees leading prevention efforts in small businesses
- Safety contacts responsible for monitoring measures on a daily basis
This training is mandatory in companies subject to the MSST system, in accordance with CFST Directive 6508, which requires one or more PERCOs to be trained and operational.
Why PERCO training is essential within the MSST framework
The MSST system is based on cooperation between several safety specialists, with the PERCO serving as the operational focal point within the company. Their role as contact person and coordinator is crucial to ensuring that regulatory requirements are applied rigorously and effectively in the workplace.
PERCO training ensures that this role is carried out by competent people capable of:
- Understanding legal requirements for occupational safety
- Identifying hazards specific to their working environment
- Taking appropriate preventive measures
- Ensuring dialogue between the various MSST stakeholders and management
- Actively contributing to the internal safety culture, which is essential for reducing risks
In short, completing PERCO training is a guarantee of compliance and performance for any company committed to a serious and sustainable MSST approach.
Objectives and content of PERCO training
Learning objectives of PERCO training in occupational safety
PERCO training provides designated contact persons within companies with the essential skills needed to manage occupational safety and health effectively. It meets the requirements of CFST Directive 6508 and fully complies with the regulatory framework of the MSST system.
The main objectives are to:
- Master the basic Swiss legal and regulatory requirements (LTr, LAA, OPA, CFST 6508)
- Identify and assess hazards specific to the company’s activities
- Implement appropriate preventive measures and monitor their effectiveness
- Coordinate safety actions with all employees and MSST specialists
- Promote a sustainable prevention culture within the organisation
Detailed programme: the 10 key elements of the MSST system covered
During the training, participants explore and work on the 10 pillars of the MSST system, including:
- Organisation of occupational safety within the company
- Risk identification and assessment
- Planning of preventive measures
- Practical implementation of measures
- Training and informing employees
- Organisation of first aid and emergency management
- Health monitoring (where applicable, depending on the risks)
- Regular checks and internal audits
- Documentation and traceability of actions
- Continuous improvement of the safety system
Each point is addressed through concrete examples, practical exercises and scenarios adapted to the realities of different sectors (construction, industry, services and healthcare).
Training format: duration, teaching methods and assessment
- Duration: generally spread over 2 days, with the option to adapt it to the sector or teaching format (in person or blended learning)
- Teaching methods: a combination of theoretical input, group work, case studies and experience sharing
- Assessment: a final assessment (multiple-choice questionnaire, case study or action plan presentation) leading to an official certificate of attendance or certificate recognised by the CFST
- Refresher training: recommended every 2 to 3 years or whenever there is a major regulatory change
The role of the PERCO in the MSST system
PERCO’s main responsibilities in occupational risk prevention
Within the MSST system, the PERCO (Safety Contact Person) plays a central role in implementing occupational safety and health measures within the company. Their primary responsibility is to coordinate and monitor preventive actions, ensuring that each measure is adapted to the risks identified in their area of activity.
Their responsibilities include:
- Participating in the assessment and updating of risks
- Ensuring the distribution of safety instructions to teams
- Organising and supervising safety training and exercises
- Monitoring the application of procedures and proposing improvements
- Contributing to reporting to management and supervisory bodies
Interface between employers, employees and MSST specialists
The PERCO acts as an operational focal point and maintains a permanent link between:
- The employer, who is responsible for legal compliance and the safety budget
- Employees, who apply procedures on a daily basis and report problems
- Internal or external MSST specialists (occupational physicians, safety engineers and occupational hygienists)
Thanks to this position, the PERCO facilitates the flow of information, ensures that expert recommendations are properly implemented and adapts preventive actions to the realities of the workplace.
When the PERCO lacks the time, experience or resources to manage this monitoring alone, SafetyFirst can provide STPS support for the PERCO. The external consultant helps organise priorities, track actions and update documentation without taking over the employer’s responsibilities.
Importance of the PERCO in ensuring compliance with legal requirements
CFST Directive 6508 makes it mandatory for all companies subject to the MSST system to appoint and train a PERCO. This role is strategic for:
- Reducing the risk of occupational accidents and illnesses
- Ensuring compliance with legal requirements and avoiding penalties
- Strengthening the prevention culture within the organisation
- Demonstrating, during official MSST audits, that occupational safety is being properly managed
A trained and active PERCO is therefore not only an asset for employee safety and well-being, but also a guarantee of credibility and compliance in dealings with authorities and partners.
Recognition and certification of PERCO training
Compliance with CFST standards and Swiss legal requirements
PERCO training is designed to meet the specific requirements of CFST Directive 6508, which governs the use of occupational safety specialists within the MSST system.
This directive stipulates that every company subject to the MSST requirement must appoint and train at least one Safety Contact Person so that they can perform their role competently.
Official programmes incorporate the Swiss legal foundations governing occupational safety: LTr, LAA and OPA.
Obtaining the PERCO certificate and validity requirements
Upon completion of the training, participants receive an official certificate of attendance or a PERCO certificate of competence issued by an approved body.
This certificate confirms that the employee has mastered the knowledge and practical skills required to:
- Identify and manage risks
- Implement preventive measures
- Coordinate safety actions within the company in accordance with the MSST system
This document is recognised by supervisory authorities and may be presented during compliance audits. It also enables the company to formally demonstrate that it meets its legal obligations.
Continuing training and maintaining PERCO skills
Regulations require organisations to keep their skills up to date. Good practice involves attending refresher training:
- Every 2 to 3 years
- After a major change in activities or risks
- When significant regulatory changes are introduced
These skills-maintenance sessions reinforce knowledge, incorporate the latest legal developments and provide an opportunity to share experiences with other PERCOs.
They are essential to ensuring that the Safety Contact Person role remains fully effective and recognised by the authorities.
Benefits for the company and impact on occupational safety
Significant reduction in accidents and incidents
Training a PERCO makes it possible to implement targeted and effective preventive actions. Better hazard identification and rapid responses to risky situations considerably reduce the frequency and severity of occupational accidents, thereby limiting sick leave and productivity losses.
Improved internal safety culture
The PERCO acts as a driving force for a prevention culture within the company. Their daily awareness-raising and monitoring activities encourage employee involvement at every level: everyone becomes responsible for their own safety and that of their team. This creates a calmer and more motivating working environment.
Stronger compliance with the MSST system
With a trained PERCO, the company can ensure full compliance with the requirements of the MSST system and CFST Directive 6508. This results in:
- Legal compliance that can be verified at any time
- Optimal preparation for inspections and audits
- A reduced risk of penalties, fines or corrective requirements
Enhancing the company’s image
An organisation that invests in PERCO training demonstrates a tangible commitment to occupational health and safety. This strengthens its credibility with:
- Customers and partners
- Investors
- Current and future employees
Measurable return on investment
Fewer accidents and occupational illnesses directly result in:
- Savings on costs related to absences and replacements
- Lower accident insurance premiums
- Increased productivity thanks to operational and motivated teams
Practical information about PERCO training in Switzerland
Where can you take PERCO training? Approved providers and trainers
PERCO training is offered by specialists in occupational health and safety who are approved at national level and comply with CFST Directive 6508, such as SafetyFirst.
These training courses are organised in most Swiss cantons, often in collaboration with professional associations or recognised training centres specialising in prevention.
Some sessions can be delivered directly at the company to meet its specific needs.
Cost, duration and registration requirements
- Duration: generally 2 full days, with flexibility depending on the needs or sector of activity.
- Cost: varies according to the training provider, programme customisation and location, generally ranging from CHF 600 to CHF 1,200 per participant.
- Registration: open to companies or directly to designated employees; booking several weeks in advance is recommended, as sessions can fill up quickly.
Sector-specific training
To address the risks specific to each field, specialised PERCO modules are available in particular for:
- The construction sector (working at height, machinery and construction sites)
- Industry (machinery, maintenance and chemical products)
- The medical and care sector (biological risks, ergonomics and manual handling)
- Services and offices (psychosocial risks, ergonomics and fire prevention)
These adaptations anchor the training in the company’s concrete realities and ensure the immediate application of the measures learned.
Taking action: preparing to appoint a PERCO
Before registering an employee for the training, it is advisable to:
- Identify the person who works most closely with the teams and is involved in safety
- Clearly define their future responsibilities
- Prepare an initial overview of the risks and prevention duties within the company so that the training can be applied directly
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FAQ about PERCO training
PERCO training prepares the Safety Contact Person within the company to fulfil their key role in preventing occupational risks and implementing MSST legal requirements. It covers safety principles, risk assessment, coordination of measures and cooperation with MSST specialists.
This training is intended for employees appointed as PERCOs, often in SMEs or small teams, who may not have specialist safety training but must manage prevention and monitor safety measures on a daily basis.
Within the MSST system, CFST Directive 6508 requires companies to appoint and train one or more PERCOs in order to ensure compliance with legal occupational safety requirements. The PERCO plays an essential role in ensuring prevention and reducing the risk of accidents.
The basic course generally lasts two days and covers the ten key elements of the MSST system, including safety organisation, hazard assessment, preventive measures, employee training and emergency management. The training combines theory with practical exercises.
Yes. To keep their skills up to date, PERCOs should attend continuing training every 2 to 3 years, including updates on regulatory developments, good practices and experience-sharing with other professionals.
The PERCO is an internal contact person responsible for coordinating and monitoring day-to-day safety within the company. They work at the interface with more highly qualified internal or external specialists (occupational physicians and safety engineers), who provide technical and medical support.
