Calls for standardized OSH policies in the workplace

By Aabigayle McIntosh

There is renewed advocacy for standard Occupational Health and Safety Standards (OSH) in workplaces in Antigua and Barbuda.

While an act has been established to guide these practices, Deputy Labour Commissioner Pascal Kentish is of the firm view that there is not a culture of such practices in the country.

In fact, during a state media program Monday night, he pointed out that some bosses in the country frown at the request by workers for basic safety protocols thinking they are asking for too much.

“It is an obligation on the part of employers to provide a safe and healthy working environment. If you allow it to get bad and workers are injured, then you will find out the cost of treating with occupational safety and health. If may be more expensive to cover the medical expenses of a worker than to buy the PPE that is required,” Kentish.

He was supported by Hazel Luke, Senior Industrial Relations Officer at the Antigua and Barbuda Workers Union who deals specifically with OSH as part of her general responsibilities.

According to Luke, OSH protocols are a key component of the workplace that should not be ignored.

“To have a better focus on it we deem it necessary to have an in-house training officer on OSH to focus greater attention as to how we could bring greater awareness to our workers, our employers, and our membership in being the first person to take care of yourself because you have a responsibility in terms of your health, safety, and wellbeing,” Luke shared.

She also stated that most injuries in the workplace go unreported and the time is right for a shift in the minds of workers.

“The employers need to understand as well as far as practicable it is their duty as well to ensure there is decent work and their employees have a safe environment in which they can produce”, Luke said.