Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2023, published 112nd ILC session (2024)

Protection against Accidents (Dockers) Convention (Revised), 1932 (No. 32) - Algeria (Ratification: 1962)

Previous comment

Articles 12, 13 and 15 of the Convention. Specific legislation on the protection of dockworkers against accidents. The Committee recalls that for more than 30 years its comments have addressed the need for the Government to adopt a legislative or regulatory text giving full effect to the Convention. At its last review, the Committee requested the Government to take the necessary measures, without further delay, in connection with the updating of the texts relating to occupational safety and health that the Government indicated it wished to undertake. The Committee welcomes the indication that the Ministry of Labour is currently drawing up a draft executive decree on the protection of dockers against occupational risks to supplement the provisions of Executive Decree No. 08-363 of 8 November 2008 amending Executive Decree No. 06-139 of 15 April 2006 establishing the conditions and operating procedures for towing, handling and stevedoring activities in ports. The Government indicates that the text being prepared should cover personal protective equipment, adequate training on safe working procedures, and the establishment of risk management systems, as well as medical surveillance of workers, including those exposed to particular risks. The Committee expects the Government to conclude without delay the adoption process of the Executive Decree concerned. It further expects that the Government will soon indicate tangible progress with regard to the effective implementation of Articles 12, 13 and 15 of the Convention, and that it will provide all texts adopted for the protection of workers against accidents in dock work.

Prospects for the ratification of the most up-to-date Convention. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that it wishes in the first instance to ensure a solid regulatory framework providing effective protection to workers in dock work in accordance with the Convention before considering ratification of the Occupational Safety and Health (Dock Work) Convention, 1979 (No. 152). The Committee encourages the Government to consider the possibility of ratifying Convention No. 152, which is the most up-to-date instrument in this area, when conditions allow. Where appropriate, the Committee requests the Government to provide information in this regard.