OHS FRAMEWORK Ministry develops an occupational health and safety policy

The Ministry of Labour and Home Affairs has developed an occupational health and safety policy which is now at an advanced stage, to satisfy the current Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Framework.

Minister of Labour and Home Affairs Anna Mokgethi said this at the inaugural Botswana Safety, Health & Environment (SHE) Summit and Expo held at Fairgrounds in Gaborone under the theme, ’Innovation for Impact: SHE in the 21st Century.’ The event was organized by Managing Director at Pheko Wellness Centre, Dr Serero.

Minister Mokgethi said the summit marks a significant milestone in their enduring efforts to bring together occupational safety and health experts within various government departments and the private sector, adding that this was an opportunity to engage in a collaborative learning process, advancing their shared commitment to occupational safety and health.

She pointed out that the current OHS framework is insufficient, limited in scope, fragmented, and fraught with unnecessary overlaps and various challenges.

“At the moment, the Factories Act stands as a beacon of protection, addressing essentials such as general cleanliness, ventilation, lighting, and the drainage of floors but only places defined as Factories,” said Mokgethi. However she said that in order to mitigate this situation her Ministry has developed an occupational health and safety policy which is now at an advanced stage.

“The National Occupational Health and Safety Policy is a cornerstone  in our efforts to create safer and healthier workplaces across our nation. This policy is our commitment to fostering environments that enhance productivity, improve service delivery, and reduce the cost of doing business,” said Mokgethi.

Mokgethi clarified that the policy emphasizes the crucial roles of government, employers, and workers in creating safer workplaces. She said it also supports the enactment of laws that set robust occupational safety and health (OSH) standards.

“Moreover, the policy aims at strengthening workers’ participation through the establishment of safety and health committees at workplaces. It underscores the importance of raising awareness among all stakeholders about the significance of OSH,” she said.

“The development of the National Occupational Health and Safety Policy is a testament to our dedication to creating safer and healthier workplaces for all.  By holding this inaugural meeting, you support our course and have become part of the drivers of government national Agenda on safety in the work place,” Mokgethi said reiterating that this summit was long overdue.

Dr Serero said that in this era of transformation, workplaces must undergo a paradigm shift, and recognize the interconnectedness of safety, health, and environment.

She said the theme of the event l, encapsulates their commitment to driving forward-thinking solutions and transformative changes in the way we approach SHE. “In an era characterized by rapid technological advancements and evolving workplace dynamics, it is imperative that we remain proactive and innovative in safeguarding the well-being of our people and our planet,” said Dr Serero. She further noted that, traditionally , mental health has often been relegated to the sidelines, but now, more than ever, there is an urgent call to embrace it not merely as a priority but as a core value for organizational success.

“As we shine a light on mental health, it is essential to recognize that safety extends beyond physical well-being. Psychological safety and holistic employee wellbeing are integral to creating a supportive and productive work environment,” she said emphasizing that the mental well-being of employees is not just a moral imperative but a strategic necessity, influencing productivity, engagement, and overall workplace culture.

Dr Serero also highlighted that Botswana has made impressive strides in sectors such as mining, where robust safety measures have significantly reduced risks and enhanced operational efficiency. She is of the view that these achievements serve as a testament to what can be accomplished through dedicated effort and innovation. “However, the time has come to extend these practices across all industries, including the service sector, to ensure comprehensive safety, health, and environmental standards for all,” said Dr Serero.