Ensuring a safe and healthy workplace is a fundamental aspect of responsible business operations in Zimbabwe. The country has established a legal framework designed to protect employees from hazards and risks inherent in various work environments. Adhering to these regulations is not only a legal obligation but also crucial for fostering productivity, employee well-being, and business sustainability.
Employers operating in Zimbabwe must navigate specific health and safety requirements that govern everything from workplace conditions and equipment standards to accident reporting and employee training. Understanding and implementing these requirements is essential for compliance and creating a secure environment for all personnel.
Health and Safety Laws and Regulatory Framework
Workplace health and safety in Zimbabwe is primarily governed by the Factories and Works Act [Chapter 14:08] and its associated regulations. This legislation sets out the minimum standards for safety, health, and welfare in factories, construction sites, and other workplaces defined under the Act.
Key regulations under the Act cover various aspects, including:
- General safety requirements
- Machinery safety
- Building operations and works of engineering construction
- Electrical safety
- Fire safety
- Health and welfare provisions
The administration and enforcement of these laws fall under the purview of the Ministry responsible for labour and social welfare, typically through the Factories Inspectorate Department.
Occupational Health and Safety Standards and Practices
Employers are required to establish and maintain a safe working environment. This involves implementing specific standards and practices to identify, assess, and control workplace hazards.
Risk Assessments
A cornerstone of occupational health and safety is the requirement for employers to conduct regular risk assessments. This process involves identifying potential hazards in the workplace, evaluating the risks they pose to employees, and implementing control measures to eliminate or minimize these risks. Risk assessments should be documented and reviewed periodically, especially after any changes in processes, equipment, or workplace layout.
Safety Committees
Depending on the size and nature of the workplace, employers may be required to establish a workplace safety committee. These committees typically comprise representatives from both management and employees. Their role is to promote cooperation on safety matters, conduct workplace inspections, investigate incidents, and make recommendations for improving safety standards.
Training Requirements
Employers have a duty to provide adequate information, instruction, training, and supervision to employees to ensure their health and safety. This includes training on:
- Specific hazards associated with their work
- Safe operating procedures for machinery and equipment
- Emergency procedures (e.g., fire evacuation, first aid)
- The use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
- General workplace safety rules and policies
Training should be provided upon commencement of employment, when new tasks or equipment are introduced, and periodically as refresher training.
Documentation Obligations
Maintaining comprehensive records is a critical requirement. Employers must keep records related to:
- Risk assessments
- Safety policies and procedures
- Safety committee meetings
- Employee training
- Workplace inspections
- Accidents, incidents, and near misses
These records serve as evidence of compliance and are essential for investigations and audits.
Workplace Inspection Processes and Requirements
Workplaces are subject to inspection by government inspectors from the Factories Inspectorate Department. These inspections aim to ensure compliance with the Factories and Works Act and its regulations.
Inspectors have the authority to:
- Enter workplaces at reasonable times
- Examine premises, machinery, and documents
- Interview employers and employees
- Issue improvement notices requiring corrective actions within a specified timeframe
- Issue prohibition notices stopping dangerous activities immediately
Employers must cooperate fully with inspectors, provide access to all relevant areas and documents, and take prompt action to address any non-compliance issues identified. Regular internal inspections conducted by the employer or the safety committee are also recommended to proactively identify and address hazards.
Workplace Accident Protocols and Reporting
In the event of a workplace accident or dangerous occurrence, specific protocols must be followed. The immediate priority is to provide first aid and medical attention to the injured person and secure the accident scene to prevent further incidents.
Certain types of accidents and dangerous occurrences are legally required to be reported to the Factories Inspectorate Department. The criteria for reportable incidents are detailed in the regulations but generally include:
- Fatal accidents
- Accidents causing serious bodily injury (e.g., resulting in absence from work for a specified period)
- Specific dangerous occurrences (e.g., structural collapse, explosion, uncontrolled release of hazardous substances)
Reporting must be done promptly using the prescribed forms. Employers are also required to investigate accidents to determine their root causes and implement measures to prevent recurrence.
Employer and Employee Responsibilities for Workplace Safety
Workplace safety is a shared responsibility between employers and employees.
Employer Responsibilities:
- Provide a safe working environment, plant, and systems of work.
- Ensure the safe use, handling, storage, and transport of articles and substances.
- Provide necessary information, instruction, training, and supervision.
- Provide and maintain adequate welfare facilities.
- Provide and maintain appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) where hazards cannot be otherwise controlled.
- Establish a safety policy and implement effective safety management systems.
- Conduct risk assessments and implement control measures.
- Report accidents and dangerous occurrences as required by law.
Employee Responsibilities:
- Take reasonable care for their own health and safety and that of others affected by their acts or omissions.
- Cooperate with the employer on health and safety matters.
- Use machinery, equipment, and substances in accordance with training and instructions.
- Use provided PPE correctly.
- Report any hazardous conditions or defects in equipment they become aware of.
- Not intentionally or recklessly interfere with or misuse anything provided in the interest of health, safety, or welfare.
By understanding and fulfilling these respective responsibilities, employers and employees contribute to a culture of safety that protects everyone in the workplace.
