Hygiene (Commerce and Offices) Convention, 1964 (No. 120) - Iraq (Ratification: 1987)

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2015, published 105th ILC session (2016)

Article 10 of the Convention. Maintaining a comfortable and steady temperature in all premises used by workers. The Committee previously noted that new instructions on maintaining a comfortable and steady temperature in workplaces were under consideration. Noting the absence of information in the Government’s report on this point, the Committee requests the Government to indicate if the instructions on maintaining a comfortable and steady temperature in workplaces have been adopted.

Article 14. Provision of suitable seats in offices and other workplaces. Noting the absence of information in the Government’s report in this regard, the Committee once again requests the Government to provide information on the measures taken to ensure that all premises are equipped with sufficient and suitable seats.

Article 16. Underground and windowless working premises. Recalling that Article 16 of the Convention requires that underground or windowless premises in which work is normally performed comply with appropriate standards of hygiene, the Committee requests the Government to provide information on any measures taken or envisaged to establish standards in that regard.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2013, published 103rd ILC session (2014)

Legislation. The Committee welcomes the submission of Act No. 8 of 2006 of the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs, containing provisions which upgrade the National Centre for Occupational Safety and Health to a General Directorate within the Ministry of Labour. It also notes that the Government is in the process of adopting a new Labour Code. The Committee expresses the hope that the new Labour Code will take account of the Committee’s comments, and requests the Government to provide a copy of the Code, once adopted.

Article 10 of the Convention. Maintaining a comfortable and steady temperature in all premises used by workers. The Committee notes the Government’s statement that the new instructions on maintaining a comfortable and steady temperature in workplaces are still under consideration. It therefore reiterates its request to the Government to send a copy of these instructions, once adopted.

Article 12. Provision of drinking water at workplaces. The Committee notes the Government’s reference to section 5(5) of the Instructions No. 22 of 1987, which provides that the employer shall provide drinking water that is wholesome, clean and particularly chilled in the summertime.

Article 14. Provision of suitable seats in offices and other workplaces. The Committee notes the Government’s reference to section 5(2) of the Instructions No. 22, which requires employers to provide suitable premises to workers for resting and taking their meals, specifying that these premises shall, inter alia, have seats and bedding. In this regard, the Committee recalls that Article 14 of the Convention calls for the provision of sufficient and suitable seats in all premises used by workers, not only premises used for rest and meals. The Committee therefore requests the Government to provide information on the measures taken to ensure that all premises are equipped with sufficient and suitable seats. In addition, noting the Government’s previous indication that consultations had been undertaken between the social partners on this subject, the Committee once again requests the Government to provide information on the outcome of these consultations.

Article 16. Underground and windowless working premises. The Committee previously noted the Government’s indication that draft instructions concerning underground and windowless working premises had been included in a draft Occupational Safety and Health Act. Noting the absence of information in the Government’s report on this point, the Committee requests the Government to provide information on the status of the draft Occupational Safety and Health Act, and to provide a copy of this Act, once adopted.

Part IV of the report form. Application in practice. The Committee once again requests the Government to provide a general appreciation of the manner in which the Convention is applied in practice, including relevant extracts from reports of the inspection services.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2011, published 101st ILC session (2012)

The Committee notes that the Government’s most recent report does not contain any new information regarding the legislative process to implement the Convention. The Committee is therefore bound to repeat it previous direct request which read as follows:

Repetition

With reference to the Government’s most recent report and the Committee’s previous comments, the Committee welcomes the submission of Instructions No. 3 regarding the National Centre for Occupational Health and Safety, but notes that the referenced Act No. 8 of 2006 upgrading the National Centre for Occupational Health and Safety has not yet been made available to the Committee. The Committee requests the Government to supply copies of all relevant pieces of legislation including referenced draft legislation as soon as they have been adopted.

Article 10 of the Convention. Maintaining a comfortable and steady temperature in all premises used by workers. The Committee notes that no new information is provided as regards the application of this Article of the Convention and that the draft instruction is still under consideration. It therefore reiterates its request to the Government to send copies of the referenced draft instructions as soon as they have been adopted.

Article 12. Provision of drinking water at workplaces. The Committee notes that the Government indicates that draft instructions concerning the supply of drinking water at workplaces have been included in a draft Occupational Safety and Health Act, but that this Act has not yet been adopted. The Committee requests the Government to supply copies of these texts as soon as they have been adopted.

Article 14. Provision of suitable seats in offices and other workplaces. The Committee notes that the Government indicates that there were ongoing consultations between the social partners to ensure sufficient and suitable seats for workers. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the outcome of these consultations and on measures which have been taken to ensure that sufficient and suitable seats are supplied for workers.

Article 16. Underground and windowless working premises. The Committee notes that the Government indicates that draft instructions concerning underground and windowless working premises have been included in a draft Occupational Safety and Health Act, but that this Act has not yet been adopted. The Committee requests the Government to supply copies of these texts as soon as they have been adopted.

Part IV of the report form. Application in practice. The Committee notes the intention of the Government to submit inspection reports, but that no such inspection reports were in fact made available to the Committee. The Committee requests the Government to provide a general appreciation of the manner in which the Convention and is applied in the country including extracts of reports on the activities of the inspection services.

The Committee hopes that the Government will make every effort to take the necessary action in the near future.

[The Government is asked to reply in detail to the present comments in 2012.]

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2009, published 99th ILC session (2010)

With reference to the Government’s most recent report and the Committee’s previous comments, the Committee welcomes the submission of Instructions No. 3 regarding the National Centre for Occupational Health and Safety but notes that the referenced Act No. 8 of 2006 upgrading the National Centre for Occupational Health and Safety has not yet been made available to the Committee. The Committee requests the Government to supply copies of all relevant pieces of legislation including referenced draft legislation as soon as they have been adopted.

Article 10 of the Convention. Maintaining a comfortable and steady temperature in all premises used by workers. The Committee notes that no new information is provided as regards the application of this Article of the Convention and that the draft instruction are still under consideration. It therefore reiterates its request to the Government to send copies of the referenced draft instructions as soon as they have been adopted.

Article 12. Provision of drinking water at workplaces. The Committee notes that the Government indicates that draft instructions concerning the supply of drinking water at workplaces have been included in a draft Occupational Safety and Health Act, but that this Act has not yet been adopted. The Committee requests the Government to supply copies of these texts as soon as they have been adopted.

Article 14. Provision of suitable seats in offices and other workplaces. The Committee notes that the Government indicates that there were ongoing consultations between the social partners to ensure sufficient and suitable seats for workers. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the outcome of these consultations and on measures which have been taken to ensure that sufficient and suitable seats are supplied for workers.

Article 16. Underground and windowless working premises. The Committee notes that the Government indicates that draft instructions concerning underground and windowless working premises have been included in a draft Occupational Safety and Health Act, but that this Act has not yet been adopted. The Committee requests the Government to supply copies of these texts as soon as they have been adopted.

Part IV of the report form. Application in practice. The Committee notes the intention of the Government to submit inspection reports, but that no such inspection reports were in fact made available to the Committee. The Committee requests the Government to provide a general appreciation of the manner in which the Convention is applied in the country including extracts of reports on the activities of the inspection services.

The Committee hopes that the Government will make every effort to take the necessary action in the near future.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2008, published 98th ILC session (2009)

The Committee notes the information provided by the Government that, in addition to previously referenced legislation, measures to give effect to the Convention include Act No. 8 of 2006 upgrading the National Centre for Occupational Health and Safety to a general directorate within the Ministry, as well as new instructions issued by virtue of Public Health Act No. 89 of 1981. It is not clear to the Committee whether these new instructions are those referred to in previous reports as intended to give effect to Articles 10, 12 and 16 of the Convention. The Committee notes that the newly adopted legislation has not been available to the Committee and it requests the Government to supply copies of this and all other relevant pieces of legislation as soon as they have been adopted. The Committee again draws the Government’s attention to the fact that specific guidelines or directives must be adopted to give effect to the provisions of Convention No. 120. It hopes that the Government will indicate in its next report the progress achieved in this respect.

The Committee notes that no further information has been provided as regards other issues addressed in its previous comments which read as follows:

Article 10. In its previous comments, the Committee noted that section 5(2) of Instructions No. 22 of 1987 provides that appropriate premises equipped with, inter alia, heating and air-conditioning, must be placed at the disposal of workers for resting and taking their meals, and that new detailed instructions on the subject are being prepared in conformity with Law No. 89 of 1981 on Public Health and section 5(2) of the above Instructions. The Committee notes the Government’s information that new detailed directives have been prepared on this subject. The Committee hopes that these new directives cover all the premises used by workers and that they take into account the suggestions made in Part VI of Recommendation No. 120. It requests the Government to supply copies of these instructions as soon as they have been adopted.

Article 12. The Committee notes that detailed directives have been prepared on the general requirements which must be met by enterprises. It hopes that these directives contain provisions ensuring the supply of drinking water at all workplaces. The Committee requests the Government to supply copies of these texts as soon as they have been adopted.

Article 14. In its previous comment, the Committee noted that section 5(2) of Instructions No. 22, which provides that appropriate premises equipped with seats and beds must be placed at the disposal of workers for resting and taking their meals. It therefore requested the Government to provide additional information on the measures taken to ensure that workers are supplied with sufficient and suitable seats in offices and other workplaces and that they are given reasonable opportunities of using them. The Committee notes that the Government’s report does not contain additional information on this point. It therefore requests the Government once again to provide information on the measures which have been taken or are envisaged to ensure that sufficient and suitable seats are supplied for workers.

Article 16. The Committee once again notes that the Government refers to section 5(19) of Instructions No. 22 of 1987 requiring workplaces to comply with hygiene standards, including the hygiene conditions which must be met by ventilation and lighting. The Committee recalls that these provisions are not intended in particular for underground or similar premises. However, the Committee notes that detailed directives have been prepared on this subject. It hopes that the new directives set specific requirements for underground or windowless premises and, in particular, are in conformity with Article 16 and Part XIII of Recommendation No. 120, which provides that, as far as circumstances allow, workers should not be required to work continuously in underground or windowless premises, but should work there in rotation. The Committee requests the Government to provide copies of these directives as soon as they have been adopted.

Finally, the Committee notes from the information provided by the Government in its report that inspectors working in the field of safety and health are obliged to draw up and sign reports on violations of the legislation. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would provide extracts of reports on the activities of the inspection services illustrating the manner in which the Convention is applied in practice.

The Committee hopes that the Government will make every effort to take the necessary action in the near future.

[The Government is asked to reply in detail to the present comments in 2009.]

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2007, published 97th ILC session (2008)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

1. Article 4(b) of the Convention. The Committee notes the Government’s statement in its report to the effect that new directives have been prepared to give effect to the provisions of the Hygiene (Commerce and Offices), Recommendation, 1964 (No. 120), with reference to Articles 10, 12 and 16. It hopes that the Government will make every effort to ensure that these directives are adopted in the near future. It requests the Government to supply copies of the directives as soon as they have been adopted. In this respect, the Committee draws the Government’s attention to the fact that specific guidelines or directives must be adopted to give effect to the provisions of Recommendation No. 120. It hopes that the Government will indicate in its next report the progress achieved in this respect.

2. Article 10. In its previous comments, the Committee noted that section 5(2) of Instructions No. 22 of 1987 provides that appropriate premises equipped with, inter alia, heating and air-conditioning, must be placed at the disposal of workers for resting and taking their meals, and that new detailed instructions on the subject are being prepared in conformity with Law No. 89 of 1981 on Public Health and section 5(2) of the above Instructions. The Committee notes the Government’s information that new detailed directives have been prepared on this subject. The Committee hopes that these new directives cover all the premises used by workers and that they take into account the suggestions made in Part VI of Recommendation No. 120. It requests the Government to supply copies of these instructions as soon as they have been adopted.

3. Article 12. The Committee notes that detailed directives have been prepared on the general requirements which must be met by enterprises. It hopes that these directives contain provisions ensuring the supply of drinking water at all workplaces. The Committee requests the Government to supply copies of these texts as soon as they have been adopted.

4. Article 14. In its previous comment, the Committee noted that section 5(2) of Instructions No. 22, which provides that appropriate premises equipped with seats and beds must be placed at the disposal of workers for resting and taking their meals. It therefore requested the Government to provide additional information on the measures taken to ensure that workers are supplied with sufficient and suitable seats in offices and other workplaces and that they are given reasonable opportunities of using them. The Committee notes that the Government’s report does not contain additional information on this point. It therefore requests the Government once again to provide information on the measures which have been taken or are envisaged to ensure that sufficient and suitable seats are supplied for workers.

5. Article 16. The Committee once again notes that the Government refers to section 5(19) of Instructions No. 22 of 1987 requiring workplaces to comply with hygiene standards, including the hygiene conditions which must be met by ventilation and lighting. The Committee recalls that these provisions are not intended in particular for underground or similar premises. However, the Committee notes that detailed directives have been prepared on this subject. It hopes that the new directives set specific requirements for underground or windowless premises and, in particular, are in conformity with Article 16 and Part XIII of Recommendation No. 120, which provides that, as far as circumstances allow, workers should not be required to work continuously in underground or windowless premises, but should work there in rotation. The Committee requests the Government to provide copies of these directives as soon as they have been adopted.

6. Finally, the Committee notes from the information provided by the Government in its report that inspectors working in the field of safety and health are obliged to draw up and sign reports on violations of the legislation. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would provide extracts of reports on the activities of the inspection services illustrating the manner in which the Convention is applied in practice.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2006, published 96th ILC session (2007)

The Committee notes that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

The Committee notes the Occupational Safety and Health Directive No. 4 of 1993, as amended, protecting workers from vibrations, issued under Article 18 of the Convention, intended to reduce the harmful effects of vibrations on workers.

1. Article 4(b) of the Convention. The Committee notes with interest the Government’s statement in its report to the effect that new directives have been prepared to give effect to the provisions of the Hygiene (Commerce and Offices), Recommendation, 1964 (No. 120), with reference to Articles 10, 12 and 16. It hopes that the Government will make every effort to ensure that these directives are adopted in the near future. It requests the Government to supply copies of the directives as soon as they have been adopted. In this respect, the Committee draws the Government’s attention to the fact that specific guidelines or directives must be adopted to give effect to the provisions of Recommendation No. 120. It hopes that the Government will indicate in its next report the progress achieved in this respect.

2. Article 10. In its previous comments, the Committee noted that section 5(2) of Instructions No. 22 of 1987 provides that appropriate premises equipped with, inter alia, heating and air-conditioning, must be placed at the disposal of workers for resting and taking their meals, and that new detailed instructions on the subject are being prepared in conformity with Law No. 89 of 1981 on Public Health and section 5(2) of the above Instructions. The Committee notes the Government’s information that new detailed directives have been prepared on this subject. The Committee hopes that these new directives cover all the premises used by workers and that they take into account the suggestions made in Part VI of Recommendation No. 120. It requests the Government to supply copies of these instructions as soon as they have been adopted.

3. Article 12. The Committee notes that detailed directives have been prepared on the general requirements which must be met by enterprises. It hopes that these directives contain provisions ensuring the supply of drinking water at all workplaces. The Committee requests the Government to supply copies of these texts as soon as they have been adopted.

4. Article 14. In its previous comment, the Committee noted that section 5(2) of Instructions No. 22, which provides that appropriate premises equipped with seats and beds must be placed at the disposal of workers for resting and taking their meals. It therefore requested the Government to provide additional information on the measures taken to ensure that workers are supplied with sufficient and suitable seats in offices and other workplaces and that they are given reasonable opportunities of using them. The Committee notes that the Government’s report does not contain additional information on this point. It therefore requests the Government once again to provide information on the measures which have been taken or are envisaged to ensure that sufficient and suitable seats are supplied for workers.

5. Article 16. The Committee once again notes that the Government refers to section 5(19) of Instructions No. 22 of 1987 requiring workplaces to comply with hygiene standards, including the hygiene conditions which must be met by ventilation and lighting. The Committee recalls that these provisions are not intended in particular for underground or similar premises. However, the Committee notes that detailed directives have been prepared on this subject. It hopes that the new directives set specific requirements for underground or windowless premises and, in particular, are in conformity with Article 16 and Part XIII of Recommendation No. 120, which provides that, as far as circumstances allow, workers should not be required to work continuously in underground or windowless premises, but should work there in rotation. The Committee requests the Government to provide copies of these directives as soon as they have been adopted.

6. Finally, the Committee notes from the information provided by the Government in its report that inspectors working in the field of safety and health are obliged to draw up and sign reports on violations of the legislation. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would provide extracts of reports on the activities of the inspection services illustrating the manner in which the Convention is applied in practice.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2005, published 95th ILC session (2006)

1. The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

The Committee notes the Occupational Safety and Health Directive No. 4 of 1993, as amended, protecting workers from vibrations, issued under Article 18 of the Convention, intended to reduce the harmful effects of vibrations on workers.

1. Article 4(b) of the Convention. The Committee notes with interest the Government’s statement in its report to the effect that new directives have been prepared to give effect to the provisions of the Hygiene (Commerce and Offices), Recommendation, 1964 (No. 120), with reference to Articles 10, 12 and 16. It hopes that the Government will make every effort to ensure that these directives are adopted in the near future. It requests the Government to supply copies of the directives as soon as they have been adopted. In this respect, the Committee draws the Government’s attention to the fact that specific guidelines or directives must be adopted to give effect to the provisions of Recommendation No. 120. It hopes that the Government will indicate in its next report the progress achieved in this respect.

2. Article 10. In its previous comments, the Committee noted that section 5(2) of Instructions No. 22 of 1987 provides that appropriate premises equipped with, inter alia, heating and air-conditioning, must be placed at the disposal of workers for resting and taking their meals, and that new detailed instructions on the subject are being prepared in conformity with Law No. 89 of 1981 on Public Health and section 5(2) of the above Instructions. The Committee notes the Government’s information that new detailed directives have been prepared on this subject. The Committee hopes that these new directives cover all the premises used by workers and that they take into account the suggestions made in Part VI of Recommendation No. 120. It requests the Government to supply copies of these instructions as soon as they have been adopted.

3. Article 12. The Committee notes that detailed directives have been prepared on the general requirements which must be met by enterprises. It hopes that these directives contain provisions ensuring the supply of drinking water at all workplaces. The Committee requests the Government to supply copies of these texts as soon as they have been adopted.

4. Article 14. In its previous comment, the Committee noted that section 5(2) of Instructions No. 22, which provides that appropriate premises equipped with seats and beds must be placed at the disposal of workers for resting and taking their meals. It therefore requested the Government to provide additional information on the measures taken to ensure that workers are supplied with sufficient and suitable seats in offices and other workplaces and that they are given reasonable opportunities of using them. The Committee notes that the Government’s report does not contain additional information on this point. It therefore requests the Government once again to provide information on the measures which have been taken or are envisaged to ensure that sufficient and suitable seats are supplied for workers.

5. Article 16. The Committee once again notes that the Government refers to section 5(19) of Instructions No. 22 of 1987 requiring workplaces to comply with hygiene standards, including the hygiene conditions which must be met by ventilation and lighting. The Committee recalls that these provisions are not intended in particular for underground or similar premises. However, the Committee notes that detailed directives have been prepared on this subject. It hopes that the new directives set specific requirements for underground or windowless premises and, in particular, are in conformity with Article 16 and Part XIII of Recommendation No. 120, which provides that, as far as circumstances allow, workers should not be required to work continuously in underground or windowless premises, but should work there in rotation. The Committee requests the Government to provide copies of these directives as soon as they have been adopted.

6. Finally, the Committee notes from the information provided by the Government in its report that inspectors working in the field of safety and health are obliged to draw up and sign reports on violations of the legislation. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would provide extracts of reports on the activities of the inspection services illustrating the manner in which the Convention is applied in practice.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2004, published 93rd ILC session (2005)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

The Committee notes the Occupational Safety and Health Directive No. 4 of 1993, as amended, protecting workers from vibrations, issued under Article 18 of the Convention, intended to reduce the harmful effects of vibrations on workers.

1. Article 4(b) of the Convention. The Committee notes with interest the Government’s statement in its report to the effect that new directives have been prepared to give effect to the provisions of the Hygiene (Commerce and Offices), Recommendation, 1964 (No. 120), with reference to Articles 10, 12 and 16. It hopes that the Government will make every effort to ensure that these directives are adopted in the near future. It requests the Government to supply copies of the directives as soon as they have been adopted. In this respect, the Committee draws the Government’s attention to the fact that specific guidelines or directives must be adopted to give effect to the provisions of Recommendation No. 120. It hopes that the Government will indicate in its next report the progress achieved in this respect.

2. Article 10. In its previous comments, the Committee noted that section 5(2) of Instructions No. 22 of 1987 provides that appropriate premises equipped with, inter alia, heating and air-conditioning, must be placed at the disposal of workers for resting and taking their meals, and that new detailed instructions on the subject are being prepared in conformity with Law No. 89 of 1981 on Public Health and section 5(2) of the above Instructions. The Committee notes the Government’s information that new detailed directives have been prepared on this subject. The Committee hopes that these new directives cover all the premises used by workers and that they take into account the suggestions made in Part VI of Recommendation No. 120. It requests the Government to supply copies of these instructions as soon as they have been adopted.

3. Article 12. The Committee notes that detailed directives have been prepared on the general requirements which must be met by enterprises. It hopes that these directives contain provisions ensuring the supply of drinking water at all workplaces. The Committee requests the Government to supply copies of these texts as soon as they have been adopted.

4. Article 14. In its previous comment, the Committee noted that section 5(2) of Instructions No. 22, which provides that appropriate premises equipped with seats and beds must be placed at the disposal of workers for resting and taking their meals. It therefore requested the Government to provide additional information on the measures taken to ensure that workers are supplied with sufficient and suitable seats in offices and other workplaces and that they are given reasonable opportunities of using them. The Committee notes that the Government’s report does not contain additional information on this point. It therefore requests the Government once again to provide information on the measures which have been taken or are envisaged to ensure that sufficient and suitable seats are supplied for workers.

5. Article 16. The Committee once again notes that the Government refers to section 5(19) of Instructions No. 22 of 1987 requiring workplaces to comply with hygiene standards, including the hygiene conditions which must be met by ventilation and lighting. The Committee recalls that these provisions are not intended in particular for underground or similar premises. However, the Committee notes that detailed directives have been prepared on this subject. It hopes that the new directives set specific requirements for underground or windowless premises and, in particular, are in conformity with Article 16 and Part XIII of Recommendation No. 120, which provides that, as far as circumstances allow, workers should not be required to work continuously in underground or windowless premises, but should work there in rotation. The Committee requests the Government to provide copies of these directives as soon as they have been adopted.

6. Finally, the Committee notes from the information provided by the Government in its report that inspectors working in the field of safety and health are obliged to draw up and sign reports on violations of the legislation. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would provide extracts of reports on the activities of the inspection services illustrating the manner in which the Convention is applied in practice.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2002, published 91st ILC session (2003)

The Committee notes that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

The Committee notes the information contained in the Government’s report. It notes with satisfaction the Occupational Safety and Health Directive No. 4 of 1993, as amended, protecting workers from vibrations, issued under Article 18 of the Convention, intended to reduce the harmful effects of vibrations on workers.

1. Article 4(b) of the Convention. The Committee notes with interest the Government’s statement in its report to the effect that new directives have been prepared to give effect to the provisions of the Hygiene (Commerce and Offices), Recommendation, 1964 (No. 120), with reference to Articles 10, 12 and 16. It hopes that the Government will make every effort to ensure that these directives are adopted in the near future. It requests the Government to supply copies of the directives as soon as they have been adopted. In this respect, the Committee draws the Government’s attention to the fact that specific guidelines or directives must be adopted to give effect to the provisions of Recommendation No. 120. It hopes that the Government will indicate in its next report the progress achieved in this respect.

2. Article 10. In its previous comments, the Committee noted that section 5(2) of Instructions No. 22 of 1987 provides that appropriate premises equipped with, inter alia, heating and air-conditioning, must be placed at the disposal of workers for resting and taking their meals, and that new detailed instructions on the subject are being prepared in conformity with Law No. 89 of 1981 on Public Health and section 5(2) of the above Instructions. The Committee notes the Government’s information that new detailed directives have been prepared on this subject. The Committee hopes that these new directives cover all the premises used by workers and that they take into account the suggestions made in Part VI of Recommendation No. 120. It requests the Government to supply copies of these instructions as soon as they have been adopted.

3. Article 12. The Committee notes that detailed directives have been prepared on the general requirements which must be met by enterprises. It hopes that these directives contain provisions ensuring the supply of drinking water at all workplaces. The Committee requests the Government to supply copies of these texts as soon as they have been adopted.

4. Article 14. In its previous comment, the Committee noted that section 5(2) of Instructions No. 22, which provides that appropriate premises equipped with seats and beds must be placed at the disposal of workers for resting and taking their meals. It therefore requested the Government to provide additional information on the measures taken to ensure that workers are supplied with sufficient and suitable seats in offices and other workplaces and that they are given reasonable opportunities of using them. The Committee notes that the Government’s report does not contain additional information on this point. It therefore requests the Government once again to provide information on the measures which have been taken or are envisaged to ensure that sufficient and suitable seats are supplied for workers.

5. Article 16. The Committee once again notes that the Government refers to section 5(19) of Instructions No. 22 of 1987 requiring workplaces to comply with hygiene standards, including the hygiene conditions which must be met by ventilation and lighting. The Committee recalls that these provisions are not intended in particular for underground or similar premises. However, the Committee notes that detailed directives have been prepared on this subject. It hopes that the new directives set specific requirements for underground or windowless premises and, in particular, are in conformity with Article 16 and Part XIII of Recommendation No. 120, which provides that, as far as circumstances allow, workers should not be required to work continuously in underground or windowless premises, but should work there in rotation. The Committee requests the Government to provide copies of these directives as soon as they have been adopted.

6. Finally, the Committee notes from the information provided by the Government in its report that inspectors working in the field of safety and health are obliged to draw up and sign reports on violations of the legislation. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would provide extracts of reports on the activities of the inspection services illustrating the manner in which the Convention is applied in practice.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1998, published 87th ILC session (1999)

The Committee notes the information contained in the Government's report. It notes with satisfaction the Occupational Safety and Health Directive No. 4 of 1993, as amended, protecting workers from vibrations, issued under Article 18 of the Convention, intended to reduce the harmful effects of vibrations on workers.

1. Article 4(b) of the Convention. The Committee notes with interest the Government's statement in its report to the effect that new directives have been prepared to give effect to the provisions of the Hygiene (Commerce and Offices), Recommendation, 1964 (No. 120), with reference to Articles 10, 12 and 16. It hopes that the Government will make every effort to ensure that these directives are adopted in the near future. It requests the Government to supply copies of the directives as soon as they have been adopted. In this respect, the Committee draws the Government's attention to the fact that specific guidelines or directives must be adopted to give effect to the provisions of Recommendation No. 120. It hopes that the Government will indicate in its next report the progress achieved in this respect.

2. Article 10. In its previous comments, the Committee noted that section 5(2) of Instructions No. 22 of 1987 provides that appropriate premises equipped with, inter alia, heating and air-conditioning, must be placed at the disposal of workers for resting and taking their meals, and that new detailed instructions on the subject are being prepared in conformity with Law No. 89 of 1981 on Public Health and section 5(2) of the above Instructions. The Committee notes the Government's information that new detailed directives have been prepared on this subject. The Committee hopes that these new directives cover all the premises used by workers and that they take into account the suggestions made in Part VI of Recommendation No. 120. It requests the Government to supply copies of these instructions as soon as they have been adopted.

3. Article 12. The Committee notes that detailed directives have been prepared on the general requirements which must be met by enterprises. It hopes that these directives contain provisions ensuring the supply of drinking water at all workplaces. The Committee requests the Government to supply copies of these texts as soon as they have been adopted.

4. Article 14. In its previous comment, the Committee noted that section 5(2) of Instructions No. 22, which provides that appropriate premises equipped with seats and beds must be placed at the disposal of workers for resting and taking their meals. It therefore requested the Government to provide additional information on the measures taken to ensure that workers are supplied with sufficient and suitable seats in offices and other workplaces and that they are given reasonable opportunities of using them. The Committee notes that the Government's report does not contain additional information on this point. It therefore requests the Government once again to provide information on the measures which have been taken or are envisaged to ensure that sufficient and suitable seats are supplied for workers.

5. Article 16. The Committee once again notes that the Government refers to section 5(19) of Instructions No. 22 of 1987 requiring workplaces to comply with hygiene standards, including the hygiene conditions which must be met by ventilation and lighting. The Committee recalls that these provisions are not intended in particular for underground or similar premises. However, the Committee notes that detailed directives have been prepared on this subject. It hopes that the new directives set specific requirements for underground or windowless premises and, in particular, are in conformity with Article 16 and Part XIII of Recommendation No. 120, which provides that, as far as circumstances allow, workers should not be required to work continuously in underground or windowless premises, but should work there in rotation. The Committee requests the Government to provide copies of these directives as soon as they have been adopted.

6. Finally, the Committee notes from the information provided by the Government in its report that inspectors working in the field of safety and health are obliged to draw up and sign reports on violations of the legislation. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would provide extracts of reports on the activities of the inspection services illustrating the manner in which the Convention is applied in practice.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1997, published 86th ILC session (1998)

The Committee notes that the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

1. Article 4(b) of the Convention. In previous direct requests, the Committee called attention to this Article of the Convention with reference to giving effect to the detailed measures suggested under Recommendation No. 120, and requested the Government to provide information on any specific guidelines, directive or instructions established by the labour inspection service, pursuant to Instructions No. 22 concerning occupational safety and health and section 114(II)(b) of the Labour Code of 1987. The Committee notes from the information supplied in the Government's latest report that the competent authorities conduct inspection in places of work to ensure compliance with the pertinent provisions of Regulation No. 74 of 1968, the Labour Code of 1987, and the instructions established under Instructions No. 22. The Committee, however, notes that the Government's report has provided no information on any specific guideline or directive that have been issued by the competent authorities in regard to the detailed suggestions contained under Recommendation No. 120. The Committee hopes that the Government will supply this information in its next report.

2. Article 10. In its earlier direct requests, the Committee requested the Government to indicate the laws or regulations adopted to ensure that a comfortable and steady temperature is maintained in all premises used by workers covered under the Convention. The Committee notes the indication made by the Government in its latest report that article 5, paragraph 2, of Instructions No. 22 of 1987 provides that appropriate premises equipped with, inter alia, heating and air-conditioning must be placed at the disposal of workers for resting and taking their meals, and that new detailed instructions are currently being prepared on the subject in conformity with Law No. 89 of 1981 on Public Health and article 5, paragraph 2, of Instructions No. 22 of 1987. The Committee hopes that the new instructions will cover all premises used by workers and that the measures envisaged will take into consideration the suggestions contained in Part VI of Recommendation No. 120; it trusts that the Government will supply the text of the pertinent instructions as soon as they are adopted.

3. Article 12. The Committee previously noted section 5(5) of Instructions No. 22 which provides that the employer shall provide wholesome drinking-water to workers in the summertime, and requested the Government to indicate the measures taken to ensure that water or some wholesome drink is made available to workers throughout the year. The Committee notes from the Government's latest report that article 9 of the draft new detailed instructions on the general conditions that enterprises must comply with provides for the proper supply of potable water to all workplaces employing more than four workers. It requests the Government to supply the text of these instructions once they are adopted.

4. Article 14. In previous direct requests, the Committee had requested the Government to indicate the laws and regulations adopted to ensure that sufficient and suitable seats are supplied to workers and that workers are given reasonable opportunities for using them. The Committee notes the Government's reference to article 5, paragraph 2, of Instructions No. 22 which provides that appropriate premises equipped with, inter alia, seats and bedding must be placed at the disposal of workers for resting and taking their meals. The Committee requests the Government to furnish additional information on any measures taken to ensure that workers be supplied with sufficient and suitable seats and be given reasonable opportunities of using them in their offices or other work premises.

5. Article 16. The Committee notes the Government's reference to the provisions on ventilation, lighting and air-conditioning contained in article 7 of Regulation No. 74 of 1968, paragraph 19 of article 5 of Instructions No. 22 of 1987, and article 6 of the new instructions that are presently being prepared. The Committee notes that these provisions do not refer particularly to work in underground and windowless premises. The Committee hopes that, on the occasion of the drafting of the new instructions currently being prepared, consideration will be given to addressing the specific requirements of hygiene for underground and windowless work premises, in the light of Article 16 of the Convention and Part XIII of Recommendation No. 120 which suggests in particular that, as far as circumstances allow, workers should not be required to work continuously in underground or windowless premises, but should work there in rotation.

6. Article 18. The Committee notes that detailed instructions on the protection against vibration have been elaborated and approved, and requests the Government to supply the text of these new instructions as soon as they have been promulgated under Act No. 89 of 1981 on Public Health.

7. The Committee would appreciate it if the Government would, in its next report, give a general appreciation of the application of the Convention, including information on the number of workers covered by legislation, the number and the nature of the contraventions reported, etc., as requested in Part IV of the report form on the Convention approved by the Governing Body.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1995, published 82nd ILC session (1995)

The Committee notes the information supplied by the Government in its latest report.

1. Article 4(b) of the Convention. In previous direct requests, the Committee called attention to this Article of the Convention with reference to giving effect to the detailed measures suggested under Recommendation No. 120, and requested the Government to provide information on any specific guidelines, directive or instructions established by the labour inspection service, pursuant to Instructions No. 22 concerning occupational safety and health and section 114(II)(b) of the Labour Code of 1987. The Committee notes from the information supplied in the Government's latest report that the competent authorities conduct inspection in places of work to ensure compliance with the pertinent provisions of Regulation No. 74 of 1968, the Labour Code of 1987, and the instructions established under Instructions No. 22. The Committee, however, notes that the Government's report has provided no information on any specific guideline or directive that have been issued by the competent authorities in regard to the detailed suggestions contained under Recommendation No. 120. The Committee hopes that the Government will supply this information in its next report.

2. Article 10. In its earlier direct requests, the Committee requested the Government to indicate the laws or regulations adopted to ensure that a comfortable and steady temperature is maintained in all premises used by workers covered under the Convention. The Committee notes the indication made by the Government in its latest report that article 5, paragraph 2, of Instructions No. 22 of 1987 provides that appropriate premises equipped with, inter alia, heating and air-conditioning must be placed at the disposal of workers for resting and taking their meals, and that new detailed instructions are currently being prepared on the subject in conformity with Law No. 89 of 1981 on Public Health and article 5, paragraph 2, of Instructions No. 22 of 1987. The Committee hopes that the new instructions will cover all premises used by workers and that the measures envisaged will take into consideration the suggestions contained in Part VI of Recommendation No. 120; it trusts that the Government will supply the text of the pertinent instructions as soon as they are adopted.

3. Article 12. The Committee previously noted section 5(5) of Instructions No. 22 which provides that the employer shall provide wholesome drinking-water to workers in the summertime, and requested the Government to indicate the measures taken to ensure that water or some wholesome drink is made available to workers throughout the year. The Committee notes from the Government's latest report that article 9 of the draft new detailed instructions on the general conditions that enterprises must comply with provides for the proper supply of potable water to all workplaces employing more than four workers. It requests the Government to supply the text of these instructions once they are adopted.

4. Article 14. In previous direct requests, the Committee had requested the Government to indicate the laws and regulations adopted to ensure that sufficient and suitable seats are supplied to workers and that workers are given reasonable opportunities for using them. The Committee notes the Government's reference to article 5, paragraph 2, of Instructions No. 22 which provides that appropriate premises equipped with, inter alia, seats and bedding must be placed at the disposal of workers for resting and taking their meals. The Committee requests the Government to furnish additional information on any measures taken to ensure that workers be supplied with sufficient and suitable seats and be given reasonable opportunities of using them in their offices or other work premises.

5. Article 16. The Committee notes the Government's reference to the provisions on ventilation, lighting and air-conditioning contained in article 7 of Regulation No. 74 of 1968, paragraph 19 of article 5 of Instructions No. 22 of 1987, and article 6 of the new instructions that are presently being prepared. The Committee notes that these provisions do not refer particularly to work in underground and windowless premises. The Committee hopes that, on the occasion of the drafting of the new instructions currently being prepared, consideration will be given to addressing the specific requirements of hygiene for underground and windowless work premises, in the light of Article 16 of the Convention and Part XIII of Recommendation No. 120 which suggests in particular that, as far as circumstances allow, workers should not be required to work continuously in underground or windowless premises, but should work there in rotation.

6. Article 18. The Committee notes that detailed instructions on the protection against vibration have been elaborated and approved, and requests the Government to supply the text of these new instructions as soon as they have been promulgated under Act No. 89 of 1981 on Public Health.

7. The Committee would appreciate it if the Government would, in its next report, give a general appreciation of the application of the Convention, including information on the number of workers covered by legislation, the number and the nature of the contraventions reported, etc., as requested in Part IV of the report form on the Convention approved by the Governing Body.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1993, published 80th ILC session (1993)

The Committee notes that the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the following matters raised in its previous direct request:

1. The Committee notes the information supplied in the Government's first report and the adoption of the Instructions No. 22 concerning occupational safety and health. The Committee recalls that Article 4(b) of the Convention provides that governments shall ensure that such effect as may be possible and desirable under national conditions is given to the provisions of the Hygiene (Commerce and Offices) Recommendation, 1964, or to equivalent provisions. This Recommendation suggests more detailed measures for ensuring the full application of the general principles embodied in the Convention. The Committee notes that section 114(II)(b) of the Labour Code of 1987 empowers the labour inspection service to provide information and technical advice to the social partners concerned on the most effective measures necessary for ensuring worker protection. The Government is requested to provide information on any specific guidelines, directives or instructions established by the labour inspection service, or any other detailed measures which may exist to facilitate adequate compliance with the general principles set forth in the Instructions No. 22.

2. The Government is requested to provide further information on the following points:

Article 10. The Government is requested to indicate the laws or regulations adopted to ensure that a comfortable and steady temperature is maintained in all premises used by workers which are covered by this Convention. In this regard, the Government may wish to refer to Part VI of the Hygiene (Commerce and Offices) Recommendation which may be of assistance in the elaboration of measures to be taken to ensure the best possible conditions of temperature in the workplace.

Article 12. The Committee notes that under section 5(5) of the Instructions No. 22 the employer shall provide wholesome drinking water to workers in the summertime. The Government is requested to indicate the measures taken to ensure that water or some wholesome drink is made available to workers throughout the year. The Government may wish to refer to Part VIII of the Recommendation No. 120 which suggests detailed measures for providing wholesome drinking water to workers.

Article 14. The Government is requested to indicate the laws or regulations adopted to ensure that sufficient and suitable seats are supplied to workers and that workers are given reasonable opportunities for using them. In this regard, the Committee would call the Government's attention to Part XI of Recommendation No. 120 which suggests the measures to be taken to ensure sufficient and suitable seats for workers.

Article 16. The Government is requested to indicate the laws or regulations establishing standards of hygiene for work which is normally performed in underground or windowless premises. In this regard, the Committee would call the Government's attention to Part XIII of Recommendation No. 120 which suggests, in particular, that workers should not be required to work continuously in underground or windowless premises.

Article 18. The Government is requested to indicate the laws or regulations adopted to diminish the harmful effects of vibrations on workers. In this regard, the Committee would call the Government's attention to Part XV of Recommendation No. 120 which sets forth measures to be taken to reduce the harmful effects of vibration.

3. The Government is also requested to provide information on the practical application of the Convention, such as the number of workers covered by the relevant legislation and the number and nature of contraventions reported, as called for in point IV of the report form.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1992, published 79th ILC session (1992)

1. The Committee notes with interest the information supplied in the Government's first report and the adoption of the Instructions No. 22 concerning occupational safety and health. The Committee recalls that Article 4(b) of the Convention provides that governments shall ensure that such effect as may be possible and desirable under national conditions is given to the provisions of the Hygiene (Commerce and Offices) Recommendation, 1964, or to equivalent provisions. This Recommendation suggests more detailed measures for ensuring the full application of the general principles embodied in the Convention. The Committee notes that section 114(II)(b) of the Iraqi Labour Code of 1987 empowers the labour inspection service to provide information and technical advice to the social partners concerned on the most effective measures necessary for ensuring worker protection. The Government is requested to provide information on any specific guidelines, directives or instructions established by the labour inspection service, or any other detailed measures which may exist to facilitate adequate compliance with the general principles set forth in the Instructions No. 22.

2. The Government is requested to provide further information on the following points:

Article 10. The Government is requested to indicate the laws or regulations adopted to ensure that a comfortable and steady temperature is maintained in all premises used by workers which are covered by this Convention. In this regard, the Government may wish to refer to part VI of the Hygiene (Commerce and Offices) Recommendation which may be of assistance in the elaboration of measures to be taken to ensure the best possible conditions of temperature in the workplace.

Article 12. The Committee notes that under section 5(5) of the Instructions No. 22 the employer shall provide wholesome drinking water to workers in the summertime. The Government is requested to indicate the measures taken to ensure that water or some wholesome drink is made available to workers throughout the year. The Government may wish to refer to part VIII of the Recommendation which suggests detailed measures for providing wholesome drinking water to workers.

Article 14. The Government is requested to indicate the laws or regulations adopted to ensure that sufficient and suitable seats are supplied to workers and that workers are given reasonable opportunities for using them. In this regard, the Committee would call the Government's attention to part XI of Recommendation No. 120 which suggests the measures to be taken to ensure sufficient and suitable seats for workers.

Article 16. The Government is requested to indicate the laws or regulations establishing standards of hygiene for work which is normally performed in underground or windowless premises. In this regard, the Committee would call the Government's attention to part XIII of Recommendation No. 120 which suggests, in particular, that workers should not be required to work continuously in underground or windowless premises.

Article 18. The Government is requested to indicate the laws or regulations adopted to diminish the harmful effects of vibrations on workers. In this regard, the Committee would call the Government's attention to part XV of Recommendation No. 120 which sets forth measures to be taken to reduce the harmful effects of vibration.

3. The Government is also requested to provide information on the practical application of the Convention, such as the number of workers covered by the relevant legislation and the number and nature of contraventions reported, as called for in point IV of the report form.