Que you are telling moi?

Why a language policy in the workplace is not a luxury, but a necessity.

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We have all experienced it. An employee hears an instruction and looks at you with a puzzled expression: “Que you are telling moi?” What may seem like a humorous moment can, in practice, lead to mistakes, frustration, or even dangerous situations. In a multilingual workplace, effective communication cannot be taken for granted. Yet it is essential, especially when it comes to safety.

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Clear communication = a safe workplace

Imagine giving instructions on how to operate a machine safely, only to find that the employee does not sufficiently understand the language being used. The risk of a workplace accident immediately increases, not only for that individual but also for colleagues working nearby.

Language barriers are a real risk, particularly in sectors such as construction, agriculture, and industry, where clear and direct communication is essential.

What does the law say?

The Well-being at Work Act is clear: as an employer, you are required to provide your employees with clear and understandable safety instructions. This means that language must never become a barrier when communicating about safety, the use of machinery, or personal protective equipment. In other words, simply saying “I told them” is not enough if your employee did not understand the message.

Problem or potential?

Multilingualism does not have to be a problem. On the contrary, in many organisations, depending on the sector, it can be a significant advantage, bringing positive effects such as:

  • More international opportunities
  • Stronger customer relations
  • Higher employee satisfaction
  • Greater team cohesion
  • Stronger intercultural skills

However, it remains a delicate balancing act. Because multilingualism can also lead to:

  • Errors or incomplete work (10%)
  • Feelings of exclusion (4%)
  • Dangerous situations or accidents (1%)

This is why it is crucial to approach language consciously in the workplace. And that is where a language policy comes into play.

How to start a language policy?

A good language policy is more than just a translated instruction. It is a deliberate approach that begins with insight.

Map the language situation within your organisation by conducting a language environment analysis.

  • Which languages are spoken at work?
  • How many employees have limited knowledge of Dutch?
  • Where do misunderstandings arise?
  • What are the needs for the future?

Provide clear and multilingual communication

  • Use pictograms and visual instructions
  • Add translations in languages employees understand (e.g. English, French)
  • Use stickers or helmet markings to quickly see who speaks which language

Encourage inclusion and interaction

  • Organise language duos: a Dutch-speaking and a non-Dutch-speaking colleague talk one hour per week in Dutch
  • Set up conversation tables: Monday English, Tuesday French, Wednesday Dutch
  • Allow employees to learn at their own pace via a “language corner” or newsletter tips

Train supervisors in:

  • simple, clear language
  • avoiding dialect or jargon
  • patient, open communication

Create a language-friendly work environment

  • Speak in short, understandable sentences
  • Show understanding in case of miscommunication
  • Avoid jokes or sarcasm that may confuse
  • Encourage colleagues to help each other with language issues

Site communication? Set clear agreements.

In the construction sector, this has already been a legal requirement since the Collective Labour Agreement (CLA) of 30 September 2019. At least one person on every construction site must be able to speak a national language or English. For larger sites, it is even advisable to provide interpreters or multilingual site supervisors. It is also important to establish clear agreements with external contractors regarding language use and to consider the use of language-specific stickers or badges.

Language policy = future-proof policy

In a globalised world, multilingualism is not a passing trend but a lasting reality. Companies that want to grow are already investing today in the language skills of tomorrow.

A language policy is therefore not an optional extra. It is a strategic choice that contributes to safety, productivity, employee satisfaction and, ultimately, success.

Conclusion

Workplace language is about much more than giving instructions. It is about understanding, safety, and connection. And that is exactly where Prevom is ready to support you.

Whether you are starting with a language corner, looking for workplace language training, or seeking support in developing a language policy, we guide you every step of the way.

Because only when we understand one another can we move forward together.

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