country report sri lanka - jisha · country report-sri lanka improvement of policy on occupational...
TRANSCRIPT
![Page 1: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/1.jpg)
COUNTRY REPORTSRI LANKA
IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH-OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH-
FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
Prepared by, Eng.S.G.DissanayakeDistrict Factory Inspecting EngineerIndustrial Safety DivisionDepartment of LabourSri Lanka
![Page 2: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/2.jpg)
My work experience in the field of occupational/industrial Safetyand Health is as follows;
Title / Work Organization Duration
Factory Inspecting Engineer, from 2010 to 2012Industrial Safety Division, Industrial Safety Division, Department of Labour.
District Factory Inspecting Engineer, from 2012 up to dateIndustrial Safety Division, Engineer Department of Labour.
![Page 3: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/3.jpg)
Organization Chart of The Department of Labour
Commissioner General of Labour [Head of the Department of Labour]
Commissioner of Labour [Industrial Safety]/ Chief Factory Inspecting Engineer[Head of the Industrial Safety Division]
Deputy Commissioner of Labour [Industrial Safety] /Deputy Commissioner of Labour [Industrial Safety] /Deputy Chief Factory Inspecting Engineer
Specialist Factory Inspecting Engineers
District Factory Inspecting Engineers[Head of the District Factory Inspecting Engineer’s offices]
Factory Inspecting Engineers
![Page 4: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/4.jpg)
Occurrence states of occupational/industrial accidents and
occupational diseasesSri Lanka is a developing country. Hence, the country is stillnot industrialized enough. Nowadays, as theindustrialization is rapidly in progress, more Factories andConstruction works are coming into operation. Hence, theConstruction works are coming into operation. Hence, theoccurrence of occupational/industrial accidents andoccupational diseases are on the increase. The followingcharts show the details of occupational/industrial accidentsoccurred in Sri Lanka, in past few years.
![Page 5: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/5.jpg)
![Page 6: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/6.jpg)
![Page 7: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/7.jpg)
However, the details on occupational diseases arerare. For the last few years, only three cases havebeen reported. But the actual values may be muchmore.
There is approximately 8.6 million workpopulation in Sri Lanka. Approximately, 500,000man days are lost annually due to occupationalaccidents and diseases.
![Page 8: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/8.jpg)
Data collection methods for statistics
The details, stated above are from the records maintained by the
Industrial Safety Division of the Department of Labour. According
to the law, applied to Factories and Construction Works in Sri Lanka,
every fatal or major occupational accidents and occupational
diseases should be reported to the Industrial Safety Division. But,diseases should be reported to the Industrial Safety Division. But,
some cases are not reported by employers due to the poor
knowledge about the law or disregarding the law. Hence, some cases
are known through the media, the police or the hospitals. Therefore,
there is a difference between the actual details and reported details.
![Page 9: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/9.jpg)
Occupational Safety and Health related Laws and Regulations
The major law applied to ensure the occupational/industrial
Safety, Health and Welfare of working population is the
Factories Ordinance with subsequent amendments and
regulations made thereunder. Though, every Factories and
Construction Works are covered by these laws the Agricultural
Sector, Offices (Government & Private) and Charitable
Organizations, Mines, Fisheries Sector, Transport Sector and
Self-Employed Workplaces are not covered.
![Page 10: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/10.jpg)
In addition, the followings are the other laws related to occupational Safety and Health.
Electricity actEmployment of woman and children actWorkman Compensation actWorkman Compensation actRadiation Protection actMines actPesticide actEnvironmental Protection act
![Page 11: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/11.jpg)
Industrial Safety Division is the only organization that has the authority
to administrate the Factories Ordinance in Sri Lanka. Though, there are
several other semi-governmental organizations such as National
Institute of Occupational Safety and Health [NIOSH], Occupational
Labour Inspection System
Institute of Occupational Safety and Health [NIOSH], Occupational
Hygiene Division and Industrial Service Bureau [IDB], these
organizations have not been properly authorized to administrate of a
law related to occupational/industrial Safety and Health. They carry out
only researches, studies, trainings and recommendation works.
Cont …….
![Page 12: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/12.jpg)
As a major government organization, the mainobjective of the Industrial Safety Division is to ensurethe Occupational/Industrial Safety, Health and Welfareat every work place by enforcing the FactoriesOrdinance in Sri Lanka. The officers appointed inthe Industrial Safety Division are as follows.
Cont …..
Chief Factory Inspecting Engineer/Commissioner of Labour [Industrial Safety]Deputy Chief Factory Inspecting Engineer/ Deputy Commissioner of Labour [Industrial Safety]Specialist Factory Inspecting EngineersDistrict Factory Inspecting EngineersFactory Inspecting Engineers
Cont …..
![Page 13: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/13.jpg)
The authority of the Industrial Safety Division
has been decentralized through Ten District
Factory Inspecting Engineers’ offices, namely
Cont …..
Factory Inspecting Engineers’ offices, namely
Anuradhapura, Badulla, Colombo, Galle,
Gampaha, Jaffna, Kalutara, Kandy,
Kurunegala, and Rathnapura.
![Page 14: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/14.jpg)
The Industrial Safety Division carry out following major activities, through District Factory Inspecting Engineers’
offices, to ensure occupational Safety, Health & Welfare of workers in workplaces.
Inspection of Factories/Construction worksRegistration of Factories/Construction worksApproval of Factory Building plans and Fire Evacuation plansInvestigation and analysis of occupational accidents/diseasesConducting of safety awareness programmers on Occupational Safety Conducting of safety awareness programmers on Occupational Safety Health & WelfareInvestigation of complaintsScrutinizing the test reports for high risk machines, issued by Authorized OfficersAppointment of Authorized OfficersAttend coroners courts to give expert evidenceInstitution of legal actions
![Page 15: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/15.jpg)
In addition, followings are some other important activities carried out by the Division
Advisory services for improvement of work
environment in factories
Participation in national committees with regard to Participation in national committees with regard to
occupational Safety & Health
Safety auditing of factories
Preparation of curriculums on occupational Safety,
Health & Welfare for educational institutions
![Page 16: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/16.jpg)
Generally, Inspections of Factories/Construction Works are carried by
Factory Inspecting Engineers/ District Factory Inspecting Engineers. When
it is specially required, the services of Specialist Factory Inspecting
Engineers are called. A Factory Inspecting Engineer/ District Factory
Inspecting Engineer are supposed to carry out twenty inspections in a
month. After each inspection, the Factory Inspecting Engineer/ District
Factory Inspecting Engineer send an inspection report to the employer of
the workplace. The inspection report describes the necessary corrective
actions to be taken to ensure the occupational Safety, Health & Welfare.
After doing the first inspection and sending the first inspection report,
periodical monitoring is done including routing inspections. If there are
serious contraventions, legal actions are taken.
![Page 17: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/17.jpg)
Workers’ Accident Compensation Insurance
Maintaining of a Workers’ accident compensation insurance is not a
compulsory requirement in Sri Lanka. But, According to the
Workman Compensation Act, Workers are entitled to receive
compensation after a work related accident or disease. The
compensation can be paid by employer himself or through an
insurance policy maintained by him. The maximum compensation
that can be received in case of a death or other work related accident
or disease as the case maybe is Rs 550,000/- [Approximately 3800 /-
Dollars]
![Page 18: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/18.jpg)
Safety of Equipment and Facilities
Following machinery have been categorized as high risk machinery
Hoist and lifts
Chains, ropes and lifting tacklesChains, ropes and lifting tackles
Cranes and other lifting machines
Steam boilers and steam receivers
Air/Gas receivers
![Page 19: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/19.jpg)
According to the Factories Ordinance, these high risk machinery should be
In good mechanical construction
Constructed with sound material and adequate strength
Free from patent defects
Properly maintained
Fixed with safety devices
Operated with precautionary measures
Other machinery should be used and maintained in accordancewith the requirements stated in the Factories Ordinance.
![Page 20: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/20.jpg)
According to the Factories Ordinance, in a factory or construction work, the following facilities should be provided and maintained.
Machinery safety
Electrical safety
Safe and healthy work environmentSafe and healthy work environment
Pressure vessels safety
Welfare facilities such as washing, sanitary convenience…etc
![Page 21: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/21.jpg)
Training/Educational Programmes
Industrial Safety Division conducts manytraining/educational/awareness programmes onoccupational Safety, Health & Welfare in a year. With theparticipation of employers, managerial or supervisorylevel employees, workers or other relevant personnel.These programmes cover both private sector andThese programmes cover both private sector andgovernment sector too.
With the assistant of lectures, written documents, posters,pictures, banners, demonstrations, videos, dramas or othertype of activities these functions are held.
![Page 22: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/22.jpg)
Activities of Industrial/Occupational Safety and Health organizations other
than the governmentIn Sri Lanka there are several Industrial/OccupationalSafety and Health organizations such as NationalInstitute of Occupational Safety and Health [NIOSH],
Cont …..
Institute of Occupational Safety and Health [NIOSH],Occupational Hygiene Division and Industrial ServiceBureau [IDB]...etc. Though, these organizations don’thave the authority to administrate of a law related tooccupational/industrial Safety and Health. They providemany services as follows and most of the services arewith the collaboration of the Industrial Safety Divisionof the Department Labour.
Cont ….
![Page 23: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/23.jpg)
Certain researchesStudiesEducating or trainingsAwareness/campaign programmesTestingsInspectionsInvestigations
Cont …..
InvestigationsStudy programmesSurveysRisk assessmentsRecommendationsMaking policies, guidelines, standards, codes...etcOrganizing and sponsoring conferences,seminars,workshopsPublication and promoting works
![Page 24: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/24.jpg)
OHSMS and Risk Assessments
In many of the workplaces In Sri Lanka, properOccupational Safety and Health Management Systemsand proper Risk Assessment systems are not followed.The management of every workplace always target onprofit and productivity. But, due to the poorknowledge/education on the subject or due to the lackknowledge/education on the subject or due to the lackof awareness, they are not aware on properOccupational Safety and Health Management Systemsand proper Risk Assessment systems. Therefore,unexpected accidents and diseases occur in workplacesand the profit and productivity go down.
![Page 25: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/25.jpg)
Campaigns/Events/National Conventions/Exhibitions
Every year, the 2nd week of October has beendeclared as the National Safety Week of Sri Lanka.Every year, 28 April is celebrated as the World DayEvery year, 28 April is celebrated as the World Dayfor Safety and Health at Work. On these durations,Occupational Safety and Health awarenessprogrammes/campaigns and other relevant activitiesare carried to promote Occupational/Industrial Safetyand Health in workplaces.
![Page 26: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/26.jpg)
References
Statistics from the Department of Labour, Sri Lanka
Statistics from the ILO
Websites of relevant organizationsWebsites of relevant organizations
Factories Ordinance No 45 of 1942
![Page 27: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/27.jpg)
Obstacles in promoting OSH in the country and suggestions of counter
measures1. The Factories Ordinance came into effect in 1950.Though many subsequent
amendments have to be done; only few have been done until now. There are many
regulations to be made under this ordinance. But, only few have been made. Still,
there are no laws on Chemical Safety and Ergonomics. There are no regulationsthere are no laws on Chemical Safety and Ergonomics. There are no regulations
made on Electrical Safety. Even though, The Factories Ordinance covers every
type of Factories and Construction Works, it does not cover the Agricultural
Sector, Offices (Government & Private) and Charitable Organizations, Mines,
Fisheries Sector, Transport Sector and Self-Employed Workplaces. Hence, only
about 2.5 million out of 8.6 million of working population is covered under
current laws
Cont …..
![Page 28: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/28.jpg)
Therefore, current laws should be upgraded immediately to suit thepresent industrial situations.
Therefore, current laws should be upgraded immediately to suit thepresent industrial situations.
In additions, the process of making of policies, guidelines, standards,codes..etc on OSH is very slow due to lack of resources, experts and
Cont …..
codes..etc on OSH is very slow due to lack of resources, experts andother influences. These issues should be addressed properly.
The resources including human resources and facilities provided are notenough to give a proper service on occupational Safety Health.Therefore, sufficient resources and facilities should be provided
The knowledge/experience of Factory Inspecting Engineers onoccupational Safety Health is not sufficient. Therefore, there should bea proper training and knowledge upgrading system.
![Page 29: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/29.jpg)
THANK YOU THANK YOU
![Page 30: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/30.jpg)
COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA
IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
Prepared by,
Eng.S.G.Dissanayake
District Factory Inspecting Engineer
Industrial Safety Division
Department of Labour
Sri Lanka
![Page 31: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/31.jpg)
My work experience in the field of occupational/industrial Safety and Health is as follows
Title Work Organization Duration
Factory Inspecting Industrial Safety Division from 2010 to 2012
Engineer Department of Labour
District Factory Inspecting Industrial Safety Division from 2012 up to date
Engineer Department of Labour
![Page 32: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/32.jpg)
ORGANIZATION CHART OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOUR
Commissioner General of Labour [Head of the Department of Labour]
Commissioner of Labour [Industrial Safety] / Chief Factory Inspecting Engineer
[Head of the Industrial Safety Division]
Deputy Commissioner of Labour [Industrial Safety] /
Deputy Chief Factory Inspecting Engineer
Specialist Factory Inspecting Engineers
District Factory Inspecting Engineers
[Head of the District Factory Inspecting Engineer’s offices]
Factory Inspecting Engineers
![Page 33: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/33.jpg)
Occurrence states of occupational/industrial accidents and occupational diseases
Sri Lanka is a developing country. Hence, the country is still not industrialized enough. Nowadays, as the industrialization is rapidly in progress, more Factories and Construction works are coming into operation. Hence, the occurrence of occupational/industrial accidents and occupational diseases are on the increase. The following charts show the details of occupational/industrial accidents occurred in Sri Lanka, in past few years.
![Page 34: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/34.jpg)
![Page 35: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/35.jpg)
However, the details on occupational diseases are rare. For the last few years, only three cases have been reported. But the actual values may be much more.
There is approximately 8.6 million work population in Sri Lanka. Approximately, 500,000 man days are lost annually due to occupational accidents and diseases.
![Page 36: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/36.jpg)
Data collection methods for statistics
The details, stated above are from the records maintained by the Industrial Safety Division of the Department of Labour. According to the law, applied to Factories and Construction Works in Sri Lanka, every fatal or major occupational accidents and occupational diseases should be reported to the Industrial Safety Division. But, some cases are not reported by employers due to the poor knowledge about the law or disregarding the law. Hence, some cases are known through the media, the police or the hospitals. Therefore, there is a difference between the actual details and reported details.
Occupational Safety and Health related Laws and Regulations The major law applied to ensure the occupational/industrial Safety, Health and Welfare of working population is the Factories Ordinance with subsequent amendments and regulations made thereunder. Though, every Factories and Construction Works are covered by these laws the Agricultural Sector, Offices (Government & Private) and Charitable Organizations, Mines, Fisheries Sector, Transport Sector and Self-Employed Workplaces are not covered.
In addition, the followings are the other laws related to occupational Safety and Health.
Electricity act
Employment of woman and children act
Workman Compensation act
Radiation Protection act
![Page 37: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/37.jpg)
Mines act
Pesticide act
Environmental Protection act
Labour Inspection System
Industrial Safety Division is the only organization that has the authority to administrate the Factories Ordinance in Sri Lanka. Though, there are several other semi-governmental organizations such as National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health[ NIOSH], Occupational Hygiene Division and Industrial Service Bureau[IDB], these organizations have not been properly authorized to administrate of a law related to occupational/industrial Safety and Health. They carry out only researches, studies, trainings and recommendation works.
As a major government organization, the main objective of the Industrial Safety Division is to ensure the Occupational/Industrial Safety, Health and Welfare at every work place by enforcing the Factories Ordinance in Sri Lanka. The officers appointed in the Industrial Safety Division are as follows.
Chief Factory Inspecting Engineer/ Commissioner of Labour [Industrial Safety]
Deputy Chief Factory Inspecting Engineer/ Deputy Commissioner of Labour [Industrial Safety]
Specialist Factory Inspecting Engineers
District Factory Inspecting Engineers
Factory Inspecting Engineers
The authority of the Industrial Safety Division has been decentralized through Ten District Factory Inspecting Engineers’ offices, namely Anuradhapura, Badulla, Colombo, Galle, Gampaha, Jaffna, Kalutara, Kandy, Kurunegala, and Ratnapura.
![Page 38: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/38.jpg)
The Industrial Safety Division carryout following major activities, through District Factory Inspecting Engineers’ offices, to ensure occupational Safety, Health & Welfare of workers in workplaces. .
Inspection of Factories/Construction works Registration of Factories/Construction works Approval of Factory Building plans and Fire Evacuation plans Investigation and analysis of occupational accidents/diseases Conducting of safety awareness programmers on Occupational Safety
Health & Welfare Investigation of complaints Scrutinizing the test reports for high risk machines, issued by Authorized
Officers Appointment of Authorized Officers Attend coroners courts to give expert evidence Institution of legal actions
In addition, followings are some other important activities carried out by the Division
Advisory services for improvement of work environment in factories
![Page 39: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/39.jpg)
Participation in national committees with regard to occupational Safety & Health
Safety auditing of factories Preparation of curriculums on occupational Safety, Health & Welfare for
educational institutions
Generally, Inspections of Factories/Construction Works are carried by Factory Inspecting Engineers/ District Factory Inspecting Engineers. When it is specially required, the services of Specialist Factory Inspecting Engineers are called. A Factory Inspecting Engineer/ District Factory Inspecting Engineer are supposed to carry out twenty inspections in a month. After each inspection, the Factory Inspecting Engineer/ District Factory Inspecting Engineer send an inspection report to the employer of the workplace. The inspection report describes the necessary corrective actions to be taken to ensure the occupational Safety, Health & Welfare. After doing the first inspection and sending the first inspection report, periodical monitoring is done including routing inspections. If there are serious contraventions, legal actions are taken.
Workers’ Accident Compensation Insurance
Maintaining of a Workers’ accident compensation insurance is not a compulsory requirement in Sri Lanka. But, According to the Workman Compensation Act, Workers are entitled to receive compensation after a work related accident or disease. The compensation can be paid by employer himself or through an insurance policy maintained by him. The maximum compensation that can be
![Page 40: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/40.jpg)
received in case of a death or other work related accident or disease as the case maybe is Rs 550,000/- [Approximately 3800 /-Dollars]
Safety of Equipment and Facilities Following machinery have been categorized as high risk machinery
Hoist and lifts
Chains, ropes and lifting tackles
Cranes and other lifting machines
Steam boilers and steam receivers
Air/Gas receivers
According to the Factories Ordinance, these high risk machinery should be
• In Good mechanical construction • Constructed with sound material and adequate strength • Free from patent defects • Properly maintained • Fixed with safety devices • Operated with precautionary measures
Other machinery should be used and maintained in accordance with the requirements stated in the Factories Ordinance.
![Page 41: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/41.jpg)
According to the Factories Ordinance, in a factory or construction work, the following facilities should be provided and maintained.
Machinery safety
Electrical safety
Safe and healthy work environment
Pressure vessels safety
Welfare facilities such as washing, sanitary convenience…etc
Training/Educational Programmes Industrial Safety Division conducts many training/educational/awareness programmes on occupational Safety, Health & Welfare in a year. With the participation of employers, managerial or supervisory level employees, workers or other relevant personnel .These programmes cover both private sector and government sector too.
With the assistant of lectures, written documents, posters, pictures, banners, demonstrations, videos, dramas or other type of activities these functions are held.
Activities of Industrial/Occupational Safety and Health organizations other than the government In Sri Lanka there are several Industrial/Occupational Safety and Health organizations such as National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health [NIOSH], Occupational Hygiene Division and Industrial Service Bureau [IDB]...etc. Though, these organizations don’t have the authority to administrate of
![Page 42: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/42.jpg)
a law related to occupational/industrial Safety and Health. They provide many services as follows and most of the services are with the collaboration of the Industrial Safety Division of the Department Labour.
Certain researches
Studies
Educating or trainings
Awareness/campaign programmes
Testings
Inspections
Investigations
Study programmes
Surveys
Risk assessments
Recommendations
Making policies,guidelines, standards, codes...etc
Organizing and sponsoring conferences, seminars, workshops
Publication and promoting works
OHSMS and Risk Assessments In many of the workplaces In Sri Lanka, proper Occupational Safety and Health Management Systems and proper Risk Assessment systems are not followed. The management of every workplace always target on profit and productivity. But, due to the poor knowledge/education on the subject or due to the lack of awareness, they are not aware on proper Occupational Safety and Health Management Systems and proper Risk Assessment systems. Therefore, unexpected accidents and diseases occur in workplaces and the profit and productivity go down.
![Page 43: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/43.jpg)
Campaigns/Events/National Conventions/Exhibitions
Every year, the 2nd week of October has been declared as the National Safety Week of Sri Lanka... Every year, 28 April is celebrated as the World Day for Safety and Health at Work. On these durations, Occupational Safety and Health awareness programmes/campaigns and other relevant activities are carried to promote Occupational/Industrial Safety and Health in workplaces.
References Statistics from the Department of Labour, Sri Lanka
Statistics from the ILO
Websites of relevant organizations
Factories Ordinance No 45 of 1942
Obstacles in promoting OSH in the country and suggestions of counter measures The Factories Ordinance came into effect in 1950.Though many subsequent amendments have to be done; only few have been done until now. There are many regulations to be made under this ordinance. But, only few have been made. Still,
![Page 44: COUNTRY REPORT SRI LANKA - JISHA · COUNTRY REPORT-SRI LANKA IMPROVEMENT OF POLICY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - FROM POLICY DEVELOPMENT TO IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES Prepared](https://reader033.vdocuments.us/reader033/viewer/2022060509/5f2547d8c82d4979fe5d254a/html5/thumbnails/44.jpg)
there are no laws on Chemical Safety and Ergonomics .There is no regulations made on Electrical Safety. Even though, The Factories Ordinance covers, every type of Factories and Construction Works, it does not cover the Agricultural Sector, Offices (Government & Private) and Charitable Organizations, Mines, Fisheries Sector, Transport Sector and Self-Employed Workplaces. Hence, only about 2.5 million out of 8.6 million of working population is covered under current laws
Therefore, current laws should be upgraded immediately to suit the present industrial situations.
In additions, the process of making of policies, guidelines, standards, codes...etc on OSH is very slow due to lack of resources, experts and other influences. These issues should be addressed properly.
The resources including human resources and facilities provided are not enough to give a proper service on occupational Safety Health. Therefore, sufficient resources and facilities should be provided
The knowledge/experience of Factory Inspecting Engineers on occupational Safety Health is not sufficient. Therefore, there should be a proper training and knowledge upgrading system.