The Bangladesh Labour Act 2006, which is the primary legislation governing labour rights in Bangladesh, includes several safety provisions aimed at protecting workers in various aspects of their employment. Some of the key safety provisions under the Bangladesh Labour Act 2006 include:
Workplace Safety: The Act requires employers to provide a safe and healthy working environment for workers. Employers are required to take necessary measures to prevent accidents and minimize health hazards in the workplace, including providing adequate lighting, ventilation, and sanitary facilities. Employers are also required to conduct regular safety inspections and maintain records of such inspections.
Fire Safety: The Act mandates that employers take measures to prevent fires and provide adequate fire protection equipment, such as fire extinguishers, fire alarms, and emergency exits in the workplace. Employers are also required to conduct fire drills and provide training to workers on fire safety procedures.
Machinery Safety: The Act requires employers to ensure that machinery and equipment used in the workplace are safe and properly maintained. Employers are also required to provide training to workers on the safe operation of machinery and equipment.
Occupational Safety: The Act includes provisions for protecting workers from occupational hazards, such as exposure to hazardous substances, noise, and radiation. Employers are required to take measures to minimize or eliminate such hazards, including providing personal protective equipment (PPE) to workers and conducting regular health and safety assessments.
Welfare Facilities: The Act mandates that employers provide basic welfare facilities to workers, such as clean drinking water, washing facilities, and first aid kits. Employers are also required to provide appropriate rest areas for workers.
Child and Female Worker Safety: The Act includes provisions for the safety of child and female workers. It prohibits the employment of children in hazardous work and requires special safeguards for female workers, such as ensuring separate toilet facilities and providing measures to protect against sexual harassment.
Right to Refuse Unsafe Work: The Act grants workers the right to refuse to work in a situation where they have a reasonable belief that the work is dangerous to their life or health, without facing any adverse consequences from the employer.
Reporting of Accidents: The Act requires employers to report any accidents or dangerous occurrences in the workplace to the appropriate authorities within 24 hours of the incident.
Worker Safety Committees: The Act provides for the establishment of Worker Safety Committees in workplaces with 50 or more workers, which are responsible for promoting workplace safety, identifying hazards, and making recommendations to employers for improving safety measures.
It's important to note that the Bangladesh Labour Act 2006 is subject to periodic amendments and there may be additional safety provisions or changes to existing provisions. It is recommended to consult the most up-to-date version of the Act and seek legal advice for accurate and comprehensive information on safety provisions under the Bangladesh Labour Act 2006.