The Labour Department in the Ministry of Social Protection is clamping down on employers throughout the country who do not adhere to the labour laws and as such will be increasing its workplace inspections nation-wide.

Minister within the Ministry of Social Protection, Keith Scott

INews understands that this is to ensure that all employers respect the labour laws, the rights of their employees and are in full compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) regulations.

Minister within the Ministry of Social Protection with responsibility for labour, Keith Scott told the media that all sectors will be targeted inclusive of all high-risk sectors such as agriculture, construction and mining.

He explained that workplace inspections are of vital importance to the well-being and output of employees as well as their employers.

With this in mind, the Ministry will continue to carry out its mandate of not only ensuring workers’ rights are protected, but also to educate and sensitise employees on the Labour and OHS Laws, Minister Scott stated.

Specific focus will also be placed on ensuring that employers are aware of the health and safety requirements at their workplaces mainly because a significant number of employers are not ‘conscious’ of the safety regulations, he told the media.

Under the Labour Occupational Health and Safety and the Labour Act, it is clearly stated that labour officers have a right to visit any business or its premises at any time to conduct inspections.

At present, the Social Protection Ministry is engaged in placing labour officers at strategic points country-wide with officers already being stationed in Region Three.