Lesotho's commitment to workplace health and safety is reflected in its legal framework and regulatory bodies that strive to protect employees from occupational hazards. Understanding these requirements is crucial for any organization operating in Lesotho to ensure compliance and foster a safe working environment. This guide provides an overview of the key aspects of health and safety regulations in Lesotho, covering legal frameworks, standards, inspection processes, accident protocols, and the responsibilities of both employers and employees.
Health and Safety Laws and Regulatory Framework
The primary legislation governing occupational health and safety in Lesotho is the Labour Code Order of 1992 and subsequent amendments. This law establishes the basic framework for ensuring a safe and healthy working environment. The Ministry of Labour and Employment is the main regulatory body responsible for enforcing these laws, setting standards, and conducting inspections.
Key regulations include:
- The Labour Code Order No. 24 of 1992
- Factories, Machinery and Equipment Safety Regulations of 1984
- Occupational Health Regulations of 1996
Occupational Health and Safety Standards and Practices
Lesotho's occupational health and safety standards aim to minimize workplace hazards and promote a culture of safety. These standards cover a wide range of industries and activities, focusing on preventing accidents, injuries, and illnesses.
- Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment: Employers are required to identify potential hazards in the workplace and conduct risk assessments to determine the likelihood and severity of potential harm.
- Control Measures: Implementing appropriate control measures is essential to mitigate identified risks. These measures may include engineering controls, administrative controls, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Emergency Preparedness: Workplaces must have emergency plans in place to address potential incidents such as fires, chemical spills, and medical emergencies. These plans should include evacuation procedures, first aid provisions, and communication protocols.
- Ergonomics: Ergonomic principles should be applied to workstation design and work practices to prevent musculoskeletal disorders and other ergonomic-related injuries.
- Specific Industry Standards: Certain industries, such as mining and construction, have specific health and safety standards that must be followed due to the higher risks associated with these activities.
Workplace Inspection Processes and Requirements
The Ministry of Labour and Employment conducts workplace inspections to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations. These inspections may be routine or triggered by complaints or reports of accidents.
| Inspection Criteria | Description
