In the Swedish office of 1Office, we are getting more and more questions about trade unions and topics related to collective agreements. Naturally, we are always happy to answer questions, but with the following blog post we will try to proactively answer some general questions.  In this blog post, we examine membership in the electricians’ trade union (Svenska Elektrikerförbundet: SEF).

Membership in the electricians’ trade union is not compulsory, but it can be beneficial if you are operating in the construction field in Sweden. It can help in finding workers, concluding contracts with general contractors, as well as in relations with the agencies that construction companies must deal with. When joining a trade union, a minimum wage and working conditions are established for the workers. The trade unions also help to ensure fair competition and a stable labour market.

In order to join the electricians’ trade union, the company must:

• be registered with the Swedish Tax Board
• be insured (if not, this is included in the trade union membership)
• have employment contracts with the workers
• have information on which workers have occupational certificates, along with the certificates

As the result of the mandatory membership in an insurance company, the company accepts additional obligations, such as reporting on salaries and reporting to the trade union.

All the rules established by the trade union must be followed while the contract is in force.

Membership in the electricians’ trade union is based on districts and the company’s representative must be present.

If necessary, we can to help to coordinate your membership with a trade union, as well as your tax registration.