Employment Ministry commits to reviewing OHS legislation for climate change adaptation

To ensure the safety of workers who work in environments that are severely impacted by climate change, the Ministry of Employment is committed to reviewing relevant OHS legislation to ensure that it is relevant and applicable to address adverse effects.

While speaking during the 2024 World OHS Day celebration at the Labasa Civic Centre, Minister for Employment, Agni Deo Singh says climate change brings with them a myriad of challenges that directly impact the safety and health of workers across various industries.

Singh says floods, cyclones, fires, tsunamis and hurricanes have become more common, posing significant risks to workers in various sectors.

He says these weather patterns not only disrupt work operations but also expose workers to physical hazards, psychological stress and long-term health consequences.

Singh says rising temperatures and heat present a major challenge for outdoor workers particularly those in agriculture, construction and transportation.

He says heart-related illnesses, heat exhaustion and heat stroke are on the rise, necessitating the implementation of prevention measures and adequate rest breaks to protect workers from the adverse effects of high temperatures.

Singh says the Ministry, with assistance from the International Labour Organisation, has completed the development of Fiji’s first National Occupational Health and Safety Policy which aims to improve workplace standards and practices and to ensure all compliance meet ILO standards.