Ensuring a safe and healthy workplace is a fundamental requirement for any business operating in Cameroon. Compliance with national health and safety regulations is not only a legal obligation but also crucial for protecting employees, preventing accidents, and maintaining productivity. Understanding the specific requirements set forth by the Cameroonian government is essential for foreign companies and those employing local staff, ensuring operations align with local standards and promote a secure working environment for everyone.
Navigating the complexities of local legislation requires diligence. Employers must be proactive in implementing preventative measures, conducting necessary assessments, and establishing clear protocols for managing workplace risks and incidents. Adherence to these standards demonstrates a commitment to employee well-being and contributes to a positive and compliant operational footprint within the country.
Health and Safety Laws and Regulatory Framework
Workplace health and safety in Cameroon is primarily governed by the Labour Code, Law No. 92/007 of 14 August 1992, and various implementing decrees and regulations. These legal instruments establish the general principles and specific requirements for protecting workers from occupational hazards. The Ministry of Labour and Social Security is the key government body responsible for overseeing and enforcing these regulations.
The legal framework covers a wide range of aspects, including general workplace conditions, specific industry risks, use of machinery, handling of hazardous substances, and provisions for medical services and accident prevention. Employers are legally bound to take all necessary measures to ensure the safety and health of their employees.
| Key Legislation/Regulation | Primary Focus |
|---|---|
| Labour Code (Law No. 92/007) | General principles of labour relations, including health and safety obligations |
| Decrees/Regulations on OHS | Specific rules on workplace conditions, hygiene, safety measures, medical services |
| National Social Insurance Fund (CNPS) | Manages social security contributions and aspects related to occupational risks |
Occupational Health and Safety Standards and Practices
Cameroonian law mandates that employers implement practical measures to prevent occupational accidents and diseases. This involves adopting specific standards and practices tailored to the nature of the work and the associated risks. Key elements include conducting thorough risk assessments, establishing safety committees, providing adequate training, and ensuring proper documentation.
Risk Assessments
Employers are required to identify potential hazards in the workplace, assess the risks they pose, and implement control measures to eliminate or minimize these risks. This process should be ongoing, especially when new equipment or processes are introduced. Documentation of risk assessments and the implemented control measures is crucial.
Safety Committees
Depending on the size of the workforce and the industry, employers may be required to establish a workplace safety and health committee. These committees typically comprise representatives from both management and employees and serve as a forum for discussing safety issues, reviewing accident reports, and recommending preventative measures. The specific requirements for forming a committee are often detailed in implementing regulations.
Training Requirements
Providing employees with appropriate health and safety training is a fundamental obligation. Training should cover general workplace safety rules, specific hazards related to their tasks, the proper use of equipment and personal protective equipment (PPE), and emergency procedures. Training should be provided upon hiring, when job tasks change, and periodically thereafter. Records of training provided must be maintained.
Documentation Obligations
Employers must maintain various records related to health and safety, including:
- Risk assessment reports
- Records of safety inspections and audits
- Accident and incident reports
- Training records
- Records of health surveillance or medical examinations
- Safety procedures and policies
Workplace Inspection Processes and Requirements
Workplace inspections are conducted by labour inspectors from the Ministry of Labour and Social Security to ensure compliance with OHS laws and regulations. Inspectors have the authority to enter workplaces, examine premises, equipment, and documents, and interview employees and management.
Inspections can be routine or triggered by specific events like accidents or complaints. Employers must cooperate fully with inspectors and provide access to all relevant information and areas. Following an inspection, the inspector may issue notices requiring corrective actions within a specified timeframe. Failure to comply with these notices can result in penalties.
| Common Inspection Areas | What Inspectors Look For |
|---|---|
| General Workplace Environment | Cleanliness, lighting, ventilation, sanitation facilities |
| Machinery and Equipment | Proper guarding, maintenance records, safe operation procedures |
| Hazardous Substances | Proper storage, labeling, handling procedures, availability of safety data sheets (SDS) |
| Fire Safety | Availability and maintenance of fire extinguishers, clear exit routes, emergency plans |
| Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) | Availability, proper use, maintenance, and training on PPE |
| Documentation | Risk assessments, training records, accident reports, safety policies |
| Employee Welfare Facilities | Rest areas, first-aid facilities |
Workplace Accident Protocols and Reporting
In the event of a workplace accident or occupational disease, specific protocols must be followed. The immediate priority is to provide first aid and ensure the injured person receives necessary medical attention. The accident site should be secured to prevent further incidents and preserve evidence for investigation.
Employers are legally required to report workplace accidents and occupational diseases to the relevant authorities, typically the Ministry of Labour and Social Security and the National Social Insurance Fund (CNPS), within a specified timeframe. The report must include details about the incident, the injured person, the nature of the injury, and the circumstances surrounding the event. A thorough investigation should be conducted to determine the root cause of the accident and implement corrective measures to prevent recurrence.
| Accident Reporting Steps | Description |
|---|---|
| Provide Immediate Aid | Administer first aid and arrange for medical treatment. |
| Secure the Scene | Prevent access to the accident area if necessary for investigation. |
| Investigate the Incident | Determine the cause, contributing factors, and consequences. |
| Report to Authorities | Notify the Ministry of Labour and Social Security and CNPS within legal deadlines. |
| Document the Incident | Record all details, witness statements, photos, and investigation findings. |
| Implement Corrective Actions | Take steps to prevent similar incidents in the future. |
Employer and Employee Responsibilities for Workplace Safety
Workplace safety is a shared responsibility between employers and employees. Both parties have distinct duties under Cameroonian law to contribute to a safe working environment.
Employer Responsibilities
Employers bear the primary responsibility for ensuring workplace safety. Their duties include:
- Providing a safe and healthy workplace free from recognized hazards.
- Implementing and enforcing safety rules and procedures.
- Conducting risk assessments and implementing control measures.
- Providing necessary safety training and supervision.
- Supplying and ensuring the proper use of appropriate PPE.
- Maintaining equipment and premises in safe condition.
- Establishing emergency procedures.
- Reporting accidents and occupational diseases.
- Providing access to occupational health services where required.
Employee Responsibilities
Employees also have a duty to cooperate with their employer in maintaining a safe workplace. Their responsibilities include:
- Following safety rules and procedures.
- Using equipment and tools correctly and safely.
- Using provided PPE properly.
- Reporting hazards, accidents, and near misses to their supervisor or employer.
- Cooperating with safety training and instructions.
- Not intentionally endangering themselves or others.
