National Occupational Safety and Health Policy Aims to Create a Safe and Healthy Work Environment

Strategic Insights -

The National Occupational Safety and Health Policy (OSH Policy) has been developed to create an internationally competitive workforce and improve the overall productivity of the nation. The policy aims to address the deficiencies in occupational health and safety systems, which leave many workplaces vulnerable to hazards and risks. The policy was tabled before parliament by the Minister of Labour and Home Affairs, Major General Pius Mokgware, who emphasized the importance of creating a safe and healthy work environment to minimize occupational acquired diseases and injuries.

Key Takeaways:

  • The development of the OSH Policy commenced in 2012 with technical and financial assistance from the International Labour Organisation.
  • The policy aims to develop an internationally competitive workforce for the overall productivity of the nation.
  • The policy will help address the deficiencies in occupational health and safety systems, which leave many workplaces vulnerable to hazards and risks.
  • The policy will ensure that all spheres of work within the economy are covered by occupational safety and health inspections and enforcement.
  • The policy emphasizes a health and wellness system that focuses on preventive measures to limit employees' exposure to workplace hazards.
  • The policy aims to promote and maintain workers' health and working capacity for sustainable economic growth and development.
  • Creating safer workplaces can help prevent accidents and illnesses, thereby protecting workers and promoting a positive social climate.
  • The policy will build a fast, healthier, and more productive workforce, driving the nation towards a brighter and more prosperous future.

Statistics:

  • The development of the OSH Policy commenced in 2012.
  • The policy aims to cover all spheres of work within the economy.
  • Occupational acquired diseases and injuries exert a heavy toll on productivity, particularly in developing and transitional economies.
  • The policy emphasizes preventive measures to limit employees' exposure to workplace hazards.
  • Creating safer workplaces can help prevent accidents and illnesses, thereby protecting workers.

Sources:

Minister of Labour and Home Affairs, Major General Pius Mokgware, in a speech to parliament on Monday.

The International Labour Organisation.

The National Occupational Safety and Health Policy (OSH Policy).