As Parliament advances the Occupational Safety and Health (Amendment) Bill, 2023, the Federation of Uganda Employers (FUE) emphasizes implementing pre-employment medical tests to reduce workplace health risks.
FUE, representing employers nationwide, stresses the need for such measures to prevent legal disputes and fines resulting from hiring unfit workers.
During discussions with the Committee on Gender, Labour, and Social Development, FUE highlights the importance of clearly defining occupational hazards in the Bill.
It emphasizes mental health as a significant concern, with over 20 percent of employees reportedly facing challenges in this area.
FUE proposes mandatory safety training for all workers, including first aid, with employers covering the costs.
Additionally, FUE calls for an increase in the number of health inspectors to effectively enforce occupational safety laws.
Currently, there are fewer than 20 inspectors nationwide, insufficient to oversee compliance across the country.
FUE suggests recruiting inspectors for each region to ensure adequate coverage and enforcement of the law.
However, concerns are raised about the requirement for all employers to establish safety committees.
Some suggest that smaller organizations might struggle with compliance.
Hon. Charles Bakkabulindi, acting chairperson of the committee, emphasizes the need for fairness in the law’s application, regardless of the organization’s size.
Bakkabulindi also questions FUE about the potential impact of technology on employment, highlighting the growing trend of automation and outsourcing.
He urges FUE to conduct a thorough analysis of the Bill, considering its implications for both workers and employers.
The Occupational Safety and Health (Amendment) Bill, 2023 aims to update existing legislation to address changes in workplace dynamics.
These changes include teleworking and emerging sectors like telecommunications and extractive industries.
By expanding the law’s scope, policymakers aim to ensure that workplace safety regulations remain relevant and effective in today’s rapidly evolving work environment… Continue Reading
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