Effective July, 1st 2020, officials from the Ministry of Employment and Labour (MELR) will embark on a nationwide random inspection of offices, shops and factories ensure strict compliance with and enforcement of all COVID 19 protocols and guidelines outlined by Government, the World Health Organization and the Ghana Health Services.
The Ministry of Employment and Labour (MELR) has noticed with grave concern the spread of COVID 19 infections at workplaces despite measures taken by the Government to curtail the spread of the virus.
The MELR and its social partners (Employers and Organized labor) issued a ten (10) point Communiqué urging employers and workers, in general, to continue to observe the necessary protocols and guidelines to keep workers safe.
As part of the inspections, the MELR envisages strict adherence to the following:
1. A Statement of Management’s commitment and responsibilities to reduce the risk of COVID-19 at a particular workplace
2. A response plan indicating preparedness for COVID-19 prevention at the workplace.
3. Regular consultation of occupational health services, local public health authorities, and other partners to promote and develop information materials and other technical advice to prevent the risk of exposure.
4. A workplace system to provide reliable information on emerging situations of COVID-19.
5. A Monitoring and Evaluation mechanism for COVID-19 prevention.
6. A risk assessment of potential interaction between workers and non-workers at the workplace.
7. Training of Management and workers on the correct use, maintenance, and disposal of Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs).
8. Evidence of communication between management, workers, and workers’ representatives or over the phone.
9. Evidence of physical distancing during meetings.
10. Existence of an isolation room for persons who develop COVID-19 symptoms at the workplace, while awaiting transfer to an appropriate health facility. Arrangements for disinfection of the workplace.
The MELR entreated both employers and workers to make changes in their workplaces to curtail the spread of the COVID 19.
Source: Mybrytfmonline/Kofi Atakora
