Cameroon's commitment to workplace health and safety is reflected in its evolving legal and regulatory landscape. Businesses operating in Cameroon must prioritize the well-being of their employees by adhering to established safety standards and practices. Understanding and implementing these requirements is not only a legal obligation but also a crucial step in fostering a productive and secure work environment. This guide provides an overview of the key aspects of health and safety regulations in Cameroon as of 2025, helping employers navigate their responsibilities and ensure compliance.
Health and Safety Laws and Regulatory Framework
The primary legislation governing occupational health and safety in Cameroon is the Labour Code. This code outlines the general principles and requirements for ensuring a safe and healthy working environment. Several decrees and orders supplement the Labour Code, providing more specific guidance on various aspects of workplace safety, such as machinery safety, hazardous substances, and construction safety.
Key regulations include:
- Law No. 92/007 of 14 August 1992 Labour Code: Establishes the fundamental rights and obligations of employers and employees regarding workplace safety.
- Decree No. 74/347 of 17 April 1974: Concerns hygiene and safety in the workplace.
- Order No. 017/MTPS/SG/CJ of 26 May 1993: Specifies the general measures of hygiene and safety applicable in all establishments.
Occupational Health and Safety Standards and Practices
Cameroon has established occupational health and safety standards that businesses must adhere to. These standards cover a wide range of workplace hazards and risks, including:
- Machinery Safety: Ensuring that all machinery is properly guarded and maintained to prevent accidents.
- Electrical Safety: Implementing measures to protect workers from electrical hazards.
- Hazardous Substances: Controlling the use, storage, and handling of hazardous substances to minimize exposure.
- Fire Safety: Implementing fire prevention and protection measures, including fire drills and emergency evacuation plans.
- Ergonomics: Designing workstations and tasks to minimize the risk of musculoskeletal disorders.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Providing appropriate PPE to employees and ensuring its proper use.
Workplace Inspection Processes and Requirements
The Ministry of Labour and Social Security is responsible for enforcing occupational health and safety regulations in Cameroon. Labour inspectors conduct regular inspections of workplaces to ensure compliance with the law. These inspections may be announced or unannounced and may cover a wide range of safety issues.
During an inspection, labour inspectors may:
- Examine workplace conditions and practices.
- Review safety records and documentation.
- Interview employees and employers.
- Issue orders for corrective action.
- Impose penalties for non-compliance.
Workplace Accident Protocols and Reporting
In the event of a workplace accident, employers are required to take immediate steps to provide medical assistance to the injured employee and to secure the accident scene. Employers must also report the accident to the Ministry of Labour and Social Security within 48 hours.
The accident report should include:
| Element | Description තිබe accident report should include:
- Date, time, and location of the accident.
- Name and job title of the injured employee.
- Description of the accident and the injuries sustained.
- Causes of the accident.
- Corrective actions taken to prevent similar accidents in the future.
Employer and Employee Responsibilities for Workplace Safety
Both employers and employees have responsibilities for ensuring workplace safety. Employers are responsible for providing a safe and healthy working environment, while employees are responsible for following safety rules and procedures.
Employer Responsibilities:
- Provide a safe and healthy workplace.
- Conduct risk assessments to identify workplace hazards.
- Implement control measures to eliminate or minimize risks.
- Provide employees with adequate training and information on workplace safety.
- Provide appropriate PPE to employees.
- Establish and maintain a safety committee.
- Investigate accidents and implement corrective actions.
- Maintain accurate safety records and documentation.
Employee Responsibilities:
- Follow safety rules and procedures.
- Use PPE properly.
- Report hazards and accidents to the employer.
- Participate in safety training programs.
- Cooperate with the employer in implementing safety measures.
Safety Committees
Employers with 50 or more employees are required to establish a safety committee. The safety committee is responsible for promoting workplace safety and health, identifying hazards, and recommending corrective actions. The committee should include representatives from both management and employees.
Risk Assessments
Employers are required to conduct risk assessments to identify workplace hazards and to implement control measures to eliminate or minimize risks. The risk assessment process should involve:
- Identifying potential hazards.
- Assessing the likelihood and severity of the risks.
- Implementing control measures to eliminate or minimize risks.
- Monitoring the effectiveness of control measures.
- Reviewing and updating the risk assessment regularly.
Training Requirements
Employers are required to provide employees with adequate training and information on workplace safety. The training should cover:
- General safety rules and procedures.
- Specific hazards associated with the employee's job.
- Proper use of PPE.
- Emergency procedures.
Documentation Obligations
Employers are required to maintain accurate safety records and documentation, including:
- Risk assessments.
- Accident reports.
- Training records.
- Inspection reports.
- Safety committee meeting minutes.
