Radiation Protection Convention, 1960 (No. 115) - Guyana (Ratification: 1966)

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2024, published 113rd ILC session (2025)

In order to provide a comprehensive view of the issues relating to the application of ratified occupational safety and health (OSH) Conventions, the Committee considers it appropriate to examine Conventions Nos 115 (radiation protection), 136 (benzene), 139 (occupational cancer) and 155 (OSH) together.

General provisions

Occupational Safety and Health Convention, 1981 (No. 155)

The Committee notes the information provided by the Government in response to its previous request regarding Article 19 of the Convention.

Application of the Convention in practice. Further to its previous comment, the Committee notes the information provided by the Government that most non-fatal workplace accidents continue to occur in the agricultural sector, specifically in the sugarcane fields. It also reports that, in recent years, there has been a significant reduction in the number of accidents, attributed to the reduced production of sugar and the emphasis placed by industry management on maintaining safe and healthy workplaces. In this respect, the Committee notes that there were 20 fatal accidents (and 625 non-fatal accidents) in 2022, 20 fatal accidents (and 577 non-fatal accidents) in 2023, and 19 fatal accidents in the first six months of 2024. The Committee requests the Government to continue to provide information on measures taken or envisaged to address the high number of accidents in the agricultural sector. It also requests the Government to provide further information on the manner in which the Convention is applied in the country in practice including the number and nature of the contraventions reported and the number, nature and cause of occupational accidents and cases of occupational diseases reported.

Articles 4, 7 and 15 of the Convention. Periodic review of the national policy. The Committee notes the Government’s reference to the National Advisory Council on Occupational Safety and Health (NACOSH), which is appointed annually and operates in accordance with the provisions outlined in section 10(7)(a) and (b) of the OSH Act of 1997. The Committee notes with interest the Government’s indication that the National OSH Policy was reviewed and revised in 2018 and subsequently re-launched in 2019, with support from the ILO Office for the Caribbean. The policy identifies seven key policy outcomes, including decreasing accidents and diseases related to OSH and encouraging a workplace health and safety culture, and states that it will be revised every five years or as deemed necessary. The Government further indicates that the OSH policy is scheduled for review and that it has requested ILO assistance in this process. The Committee also notes the Government’s indication that it is currently working on a review of the OSH Act, and it notes the activities of the NACOSH reflected in the Council’s annual report. The Committee requests the Government to continue to provide information on the review of the national OSH policy and the consultations held in this regard, as well as on the policy’s implementation. It also requests the Government to continue to provide information on the review of the OSH Act and the consultations held in this respect.

Article 6. Functions and responsibilities. In response to its previous comment, the Committee notes the Government’s reference to the OSH Act, which delineates the roles and responsibilities of employers (sections 45 to 47), supervisors (section 48), workers (section 49), occupiers and owners of industrial establishments (sections 50 to 53), suppliers (section 54) and directors and officers of corporate bodies (section 55). The Committee further notes the Government’s indication that the OSH Policy specifies responsibilities of these and other agents to ensure coordinated action among all agencies involved in OSH. These entities, which include the Ministry of Social Protection, the NACOSH, the Ministry of Public Health, the National Insurance Scheme, the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS), the Guyana Fire Service (GFS), the University of Guyana, and the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority, are expected to collaborate to improve working conditions and the workplace environment throughout the country. The Committee notes this information, which responds to its previous request.

Article 9. Adequate and appropriate system of inspection. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that the Labour and OSH Departments are currently separate departments within the Ministry of Labour, and that a combined total of 8,000 inspections were undertaken from 2021 to 2023. The Government also indicates that efforts are being taken to hire both Labour and OSH officers across the country. The Committee further notes the findings of the 2023 Report of the Auditor General on a review of the Ministry of Labour's OSH inspection process, which highlighted shortcomings within the OSH Department, such as: ineffective enforcement of workplace registration and insufficient planning and resource utilization for inspections; lack of technical skills among inspectors, impacting the effectiveness of inspections; absence of a comprehensive database of workplaces, hindering targeted inspections and accurate tracking of the total number of inspections conducted; inadequate documentation and monitoring of inspection findings, resulting in insufficient follow-up on corrective actions; and failure to impose fines and penalties for violations, further weakening enforcement efforts. With reference to its comments adopted in 2024 concerning the Labour Inspection Convention, 1947 (No. 81) and the Labour Inspection (Agriculture) Convention, 1969 (No. 129), the Committee requests the Government to provide detailed information on the functioning of inspection services in relation to OSH, including measures to address the issues highlighted in the Report of the Auditor General of 2023.

Article 12. Obligations of persons who design, manufacture, import, provide or transfer machinery, equipment or substances for occupational use. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that no specific measures have been undertaken through policy or law to fulfil the requirements under Article 12. The Committee also notes the Government’s reference to the Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Control Act, pursuant to which the Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Control Board manages a registration mechanism for pesticides and toxic chemicals manufactured in the country or imported. The Committee further notes that the Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Control Regulations set forth requirements for the labelling and safe use of these substances. In addition, the Committee notes that section 65(1) of the OSH Act establishes that a person who supplies, manufactures or designs a workplace article that emits hazardous physical agents must ensure prescribed safety information on its hazards and proper use is readily available. The Committee requests the Government to take measures to prescribe the obligations of persons who design, manufacture, import, provide or transfer machinery, equipment and any substances for occupational use, so that such items do not entail dangers for the safety and health of those using them correctly in accordance with Article 12(a). It requests the Government to provide further information on the measures taken to implement Article 12(b) of the Convention, regarding the obligation to make available information, as well as Article 12(c).

Article 13. Protection from undue consequences. The Committee previously noted that pursuant to section 56 of the OSH Act, workers are entitled to refuse to work when they have reasonable basis for believing that a hazardous situation exists and presents an imminent or serious danger to their safety and health, or that of a fellow worker, but that certain categories could be excluded from the application of section 56 by virtue of an order of the Minister (section 56(2)). In this respect, the Committee notes the Government’s response that that no ministerial decrees or orders were issued by virtue of section 56(2) of the OSH Act, and that currently, the OSH Act applies uniformly across all industrial establishments. The Government also indicates that awareness sessions are conducted regularly with workers and joint workplace safety and health committees to educate them on their rights, obligations, and the importance of safe work practices. The Committee notes this information, which replies to its previous request.

Article 17. Collaboration between two or more undertakings engaging in activities simultaneously at one workplace. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that collaboration among employers is ongoing, particularly in the oil and gas and construction sectors. Employers are also encouraged to establish joint workplace safety and health committees or designate safety and health representatives, depending on the size of their operations. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on measures adopted or envisaged to ensure that whenever two or more undertakings engage in activities simultaneously at one workplace, they collaborate in applying the requirements of this Convention.

Article 20. Cooperation at the level of the undertaking. The Committee notes the Government’s reference to the OSH Act, which stipulates that workplaces employing fewer than 20 but more than five persons must have a designated safety and health representative. The Government also indicates that a draft Joint Workplace Safety and Health Regulation has been developed to streamline the operations of joint workplace safety and health committees and representatives and is awaiting parliamentary approval. The Committee requests the Government to continue to provide information on the adoption of the Joint Workplace Safety and Health Regulation.

Protection from specific risks

Radiation Protection Convention, 1960 (No. 115)

Application in practice. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the application of this Convention in practice, including statistics on the number of workers exposed to ionizing radiation and any other violations detected during labour inspection visits and their follow-up.

Article 7(1)(b) and (2). Exposure limits for young workers between 16 and 18 years of age. The Committee refers to its comments under the Worst Forms of Child Labour Convention, 1999 (No. 182) where it noted that the Government is considering revising its list of hazardous work which is likely to harm the health, safety or morals of children. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the measures adopted, including in the framework of this revision, to fix appropriate levels of ionizing radiation for young workers aged between 16 and 18 years who are directly engaged in radiation work and to forbid work involving ionizing radiations to workers under the age of 16.

Article 11. Appropriate monitoring of workers and workplaces. The Committee notes that, under section 8 of the Radiation Safety and Security Act, one of the Radiation Safety and Security Board’s functions is to monitor and assess activities and practices to verify compliance with the Act and with the terms and conditions of licenses. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the measures taken to ensure the monitoring of workplaces and the safety of workers, including the cooperation efforts in this regard between the Radiation Safety and Security Board and the labour inspectorate.

Article 14. Employment involving exposure to ionizing radiation contrary to medical advice. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the measures adopted to ensure that workers are not employed or engaged in work liable to expose them to ionizing radiations contrary to qualified medical advice.

Benzene Convention, 1971 (No. 136)

Article 2 of the Convention. Replacement of benzene or of products containing it. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on measures adopted, including in the context of the ongoing legislative review, to ensure the use of harmless or less harmful substitute products, wherever available, instead of benzene or products containing benzene.

Article 5. Preventive occupational hygiene and technical measures. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the measures taken to ensure the adoption and implementation of preventive technical and occupational hygiene measures to ensure the effective protection of workers exposed to benzene or products containing benzene.

Article 6. Measures to prevent the escape of vapour, ceiling values allowed and methods of measurement. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on measures adopted or envisaged to bring national law and practice into conformity with the requirements of Article 6 of the Convention.

Article 7. Enclosed systems. Removal of benzene vapour. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the measures adopted to ensure that work processes involving the use of benzene or of products containing benzene are carried out in an enclosed system, as far as practicable. It also requests the Government to provide information on measures taken to ensure that, where it is not practicable for the work processes to be carried out in an enclosed system, places of work in which benzene or products containing benzene are used are equipped with effective means to ensure the removal of benzene vapour to the extent necessary for the protection of the health of the workers.

Article 8. Personal protection against the risk of absorbing benzene through the skin. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on measures taken to bring national law and practice into conformity with the requirements of Article 8 of the Convention.

Articles 9. Medical examinations. The Committee notes that section 47(1)(i) and (j) of the OSH Act requires employers to provide for medical examinations and safety-related tests for workers as prescribed, and stipulates that only those workers who have undergone such prescribed examinations, tests, or X-rays, and have been deemed physically fit, may be permitted to work in the workplace. Additionally, the Committee notes that the Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Control Act authorizes the Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Control Board to request periodic medical examinations of workers as specified by regulations, and mandates medical examiners or practitioners to report quarterly on cases of poisoning by pesticides and toxic chemicals (sections 31(2)(c) and 31(3)). However, the Committee notes there are no specific provisions addressing the obligation for pre-employment medical examinations for workers who are to be employed in work processes involving exposure to benzene or to products containing benzene and their periodic re-examinations. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the measures taken to ensure that these workers shall undergo a thorough pre-employment medical examination for fitness for employment and periodic re-examinations.

Article 11(1) and (2). Prohibition of the employment of young persons under 18 years of age in work processes involving exposure to benzene or products containing benzene, except in the context of education or training. Prohibition of the employment of nursing women. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the measures taken, including within the context of the ongoing legislative review and the revision of its list of hazardous work which is likely to harm the health, safety or morals of children, to ensure that : (a) nursing mothers shall not be employed in work processes involving exposure to benzene or products containing benzene; and (b) young persons under 18 years of age shall not be employed in work processes involving exposure to benzene or products containing benzene, unless they are young persons undergoing education or training who are under adequate technical and medical supervision.

Article 12. Clearly visible danger symbols on any container holding benzene or products containing benzene. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on measures taken to ensure that the word “Benzene” and the necessary danger symbols are clearly visible on any container holding benzene or products containing benzene.

Occupational Cancer Convention, 1974 (No. 139)

Application of the Convention in practice. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the application of the Convention in practice, namely on the number of occupational diseases reported and workers exposed to carcinogenic or mutagenic substances.

Article 1(1) and (2) of the Convention. List of prohibited or restricted carcinogenic substances or agents. Exemptions from prohibition. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that the Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Control Board (PTCCB), under the Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Control Act and its Regulations, has an established mechanism for assessing carcinogenicity and safeguarding human health and the environment. The Government also indicates that the PTCCB oversees a comprehensive registration system for all pesticides and toxic chemicals but indicates that these registers are not classified by carcinogenicity. The Committee takes due note of the Government's indication that the list of prohibited and restricted substances was updated in 2022 and that the PTCCB has not granted any exemptions for substances prohibited under the Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Control Act and its subsidiary Regulations. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the measures adopted to ensure the implementation of a mechanism to periodically determine the carcinogenic substances and agents to which occupational exposure shall be prohibited or made subject to authorization or control.

Article 2(1) and (2). Replacement of carcinogenic substances and agents. Number of workers exposed. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that it is endeavouring to incorporate provisions concerning the obligation to substitute carcinogenic substances and agents into the new OSH regulatory framework under development. The Government also indicates that data on the number of workers exposed to carcinogenic substances or agents is currently unavailable, though systems will be developed to collect this information. The Committee requests the Government to continue to provide information on the measures adopted to ensure that the draft Regulations on the Safe Use of Chemicals at Work contain provisions providing for the obligation to substitute carcinogenic substances and agents whenever possible, and to provide information on any progress made in this regard. The Committee also requests the Government to provide information on the measures adopted to ensure the elaboration of statistics on number of workers exposed to carcinogenic substances or agents.

Article 5. Medical examinations. Following its previous comments, the Committee notes the Government’s indication that, to date, the PTCCB Board has not requested any medical examinations of workers from employers. The Committee requests the Government to provide detailed information on the measures adopted to ensure that medical examinations during the period of employment and thereafter are conducted for all workers exposed to carcinogenic substances and agents, in order to evaluate their exposure and supervise their state of health in relation to the occupational hazards.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2024, published 113rd ILC session (2025)

In order to provide a comprehensive view of the issues relating to the application of ratified occupational safety and health (OSH) Conventions, the Committee considers it appropriate to examine Conventions Nos 115 (radiation protection), 136 (benzene) and 139 (occupational cancer) together.

Protection from specific risks

Radiation Protection Convention, 1960 (No. 115)

Articles 1, 3(1), 6 and 8 of the Convention. Legislation. Maximum permissible doses. Consultation of the social partners. The Committee notes the Government’s reference to the adoption of the Radiation Safety and Security Act (No. 10 of 2023). The Committee notes the new Act establishes the Radiation Safety and Security Board for the purpose of exercising regulatory control over the peaceful uses of ionizing radiation and contains obligations for licensees. Section 42 of the Act authorizes the Board, in consultation with the Minister, to enact regulations aimed at protecting individuals from injury due to ionizing radiation exposure, including setting dose limits that must not be exceeded during activities under regulatory oversight. Additionally, section 42(2) states that dose limits should align with recommendations from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP). The Committee requests the Government to take the necessary measures to ensure effective protection of workers, as it relates to their health and safety, against ionizing radiations. It requests the Government to adopt the necessary regulations in order to ensure that maximum permissible doses or amounts are determined without delay, for both workers directly engaged in radiation work and for those who remain or pass where they may be exposed to ionizing radiations. Finally, it requests the Government to provide information on the consultations held with representatives of employers and workers on the Radiation Safety and Security Act and any subsequent regulations.

Article 12. Medical examinations. The Committee requests the Government to take the necessary measures in order to ensure medical examinations are prescribed and provided in practice to all workers directly engaged in radiation work, including examinations prior to or shortly after taking up such work, and their subsequent examination at appropriate intervals.

Benzene Convention, 1971 (No. 136)

Legislation. The Committee notes that pursuant to the Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Control Act, the Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Control Board (PTCCB) manages a registration mechanism for pesticides and toxic chemicals manufactured in the country or that are imported. The Committee notes that the Board’s list of prohibited pesticides and toxic chemicals includes several benzene derivatives. The Committee also notes the Government’s indication that a review of the OSH Act and existing regulations is currently under way, with the aim of establishing a comprehensive legislative and regulatory framework that addresses all OSH-related matters. The Committee further notes the Government’s request for technical assistance to align national legislation and practices with the Convention’s requirements. The Committee takes note of this request for technical assistance and expresses the hope that this assistance will be provided in the near future. It also requests the Government to take measures to ensure that the reviewed regulatory framework gives full effect to the Convention and that the Committee’s comments on legislative matters are taken into account in the context of the review.

Article 4 of the Convention. Prohibition of the use of benzene in certain work processes. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that the monitoring of benzene and substances containing benzene is ensured by the PTCCB. It further notes the Government’s indication regarding the use of benzene and its derivatives permitted in the country, and an indication of the products monitored by the PTCCB in that respect. The Committee requests the Government to take all the necessary steps, including in the context of the ongoing legislative review, to ensure that the use of benzene and products containing benzene is prohibited in certain work processes and that this prohibition includes at least the use of benzene and products containing benzene as a solvent or diluent, except where the process is carried out in an enclosed system or where there are other equally safe methods of work. It requests the Government to provide information on any developments in this regard.

Occupational Cancer Convention, 1974 (No. 139)

Legislation. Further to its previous comment and noting the ongoing legislative review, the Committee requests the Government to take the necessary measures to ensure that the reviewed regulatory framework gives full effect to the Convention and that the Committee’s comments on legislative matters are taken into account in the context of the review.

Article 3 of the Convention. Exposure limits and protective measures. Records of exposure of workers at risk. In response to its previous comment, the Committee notes the Government’s indication that employers are mandated to ensure that safety data sheets and labels are accessible to all employees and that all relevant personal protective equipment, as specified on the product labels, is provided to workers handling these substances. The Committee once again requests the Government to take the necessary measures to establish an appropriate system of records at the national level. It also requests the Government to provide further information on the measures taken, including in the context of the legislative review, to protect workers against the risks of exposure to carcinogenic substances or agents.

The Committee is raising other matters in a request addressed directly to the Government.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2016, published 106th ILC session (2017)

The Committee notes with deep concern that the Government’s report has not been received. It is therefore bound to repeat its previous comments.

Repetition

General observation of 2015. The Committee would like to draw the Government’s attention to its general observation of 2015 under this Convention, including the request for information contained in paragraph 30 thereof.

The Committee notes that section 75(1)(b) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act (Act No. 32 of 1997) provides that the Ministry may adopt regulations to further regulate occupational safety and health issues. It notes the detailed draft regulations on the safe use of chemicals at work of 31 January 2003, which was attached to the Government’s report, but also notes that this draft text does not contain any rules with respect to ionizing radiation. The Committee asks the Government to provide information in its next report on measures taken or envisaged to ensure that workers are protected against ionizing radiation at work, particularly through issuing regulations under section 75 of the Occupational Safety and Health Act.

Article 3(1) of the Convention. Effective protection of workers in the light of knowledge available at the time. With respect to exposure limits to chemical substances and agents, the Committee notes that Annex 2 in the proposed regulations refers to the international standard established by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists. The Committee requests the Government to provide further information on measures taken or envisaged to give effect to the Convention, taking due account of the recommendations of the ICRP.

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

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

General observation of 2015. The Committee would like to draw the Government’s attention to its general observation of 2015 under this Convention, including the request for information contained in paragraph 30 thereof.

The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It expresses deep concern in this respect. It is therefore bound to repeat its previous comments.

The Committee notes the information contained in the Government’s report and the attached documentation. It notes that section 75(1)(b) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act (Act No. 32 of 1997) provides that the Ministry may adopt regulations to further regulate occupational safety and health issues. It notes the detailed draft regulations on the safe use of chemicals at work of 31 January 2003, which was attached to the Government’s report, but also notes that this draft text does not contain any rules with respect to ionizing radiation. The Committee asks the Government to provide information in its next report on measures taken or envisaged to ensure that workers are protected against ionizing radiation at work, particularly through issuing regulations under section 75 of the Occupational Safety and Health Act.

Article 3(1) of the Convention. Effective protection of workers in the light of knowledge available at the time. With respect to exposure limits to chemical substances and agents, the Committee notes that Annex 2 in the proposed regulations refers to the international standard established by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists. The Committee requests the Government to provide further information on measures taken or envisaged to give effect to the Convention, taking due account of the recommendations of the ICRP.

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

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2014, published 104th ILC session (2015)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It must therefore repeat its previous comments.

Repetition

The Committee notes the information contained in the Government’s report and the attached documentation. It notes that section 75(1)(b) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act (Act No. 32 of 1997) provides that the Ministry may adopt regulations to further regulate occupational safety and health issues. It notes the detailed draft regulations on the safe use of chemicals at work of 31 January 2003, which was attached to the Government’s report, but also notes that this draft text does not contain any rules with respect to ionizing radiation. The Committee asks the Government to provide information in its next report on measures taken or envisaged to ensure that workers are protected against ionizing radiation at work, particularly through issuing regulations under section 75 of the Occupational Safety and Health Act.

Article 3(1) of the Convention. Effective protection of workers in the light of knowledge available at the time. With respect to exposure limits to chemical substances and agents, the Committee notes that Annex 2 in the proposed regulations refers to the international standard established by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists. The Committee takes this opportunity to refer the Government to its general observation of 1992 under this Convention, in which the Committee refers to the exposure limits on ionizing radiation recommended by the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP), No. 60 (1990), according to which the permissible level of exposure to ionizing radiation for workers engaged in radiation work is recommended to be 20 mSv per year, averaged over five years, but not exceeding 50 mSv in any single year. The Committee requests the Government to provide further information on measures taken or envisaged to give effect to the Convention, taking due account of the recommendations of the ICRP referred to in the Committee’s general observation of 1992 under this Convention.

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

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

The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It is therefore bound to repeat its previous comment, which read as follows:

Repetition

The Committee notes the information contained in the Government’s report and the attached documentation. It notes that section 75(1)(b) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act (Act No. 32 of 1997) provides that the Ministry may adopt regulations to further regulate occupational safety and health issues. It notes the detailed draft regulations on the safe use of chemicals at work of 31 January 2003, which was attached to the Government’s report, but also notes that this draft text does not contain any rules with respect to ionizing radiation. The Committee asks the Government to provide information in its next report on measures taken or envisaged to ensure that workers are protected against ionizing radiation at work, particularly through issuing regulations under section 75 of the Occupational Safety and Health Act.

Article 3(1) of the Convention. Effective protection of workers in the light of knowledge available at the time. With respect to exposure limits to chemical substances and agents, the Committee notes that Annex 2 in the proposed regulations refers to the international standard established by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists. The Committee takes this opportunity to refer the Government to its general observation of 1992 under this Convention, in which the Committee refers to the exposure limits on ionizing radiation recommended by the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP), No. 60 (1990), according to which the permissible level of exposure to ionizing radiation for workers engaged in radiation work is recommended to be 20 mSv per year, averaged over five years, but not exceeding 50 mSv in any single year. The Committee requests the Government to provide further information on measures taken or envisaged to give effect to the Convention, taking due account of the recommendations of the ICRP referred to in the Committee’s general observation of 1992 under this Convention.

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

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2012, published 102nd ILC session (2013)

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:

Repetition

The Committee notes the information contained in the Government’s report and the attached documentation. It notes that section 75(1)(b) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act (Act No. 32 of 1997) provides that the Ministry may adopt regulations to further regulate occupational safety and health issues. It notes the detailed draft regulations on the safe use of chemicals at work of 31 January 2003, which was attached to the Government’s report, but also notes that this draft text does not contain any rules with respect to ionizing radiation. The Committee asks the Government to provide information in its next report on measures taken or envisaged to ensure that workers are protected against ionizing radiation at work, particularly through issuing regulations under section 75 of the Occupational Safety and Health Act.

Article 3(1) of the Convention. Effective protection of workers in the light of knowledge available at the time. With respect to exposure limits to chemical substances and agents, the Committee notes that Annex 2 in the proposed regulations refers to the international standard established by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists. The Committee takes this opportunity to refer the Government to its general observation of 1992 under this Convention, in which the Committee refers to the exposure limits on ionizing radiation recommended by the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP), No. 60 (1990), according to which the permissible level of exposure to ionizing radiation for workers engaged in radiation work is recommended to be 20 mSv per year, averaged over five years, but not exceeding 50 mSv in any single year. The Committee requests the Government to provide further information on measures taken or envisaged to give effect to the Convention, taking due account of the recommendations of the ICRP referred to in the Committee’s general observation of 1992 under this Convention.

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

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:

Repetition

The Committee notes the information contained in the Government’s report and the attached documentation. It notes that section 75(1)(b) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act (Act No. 32 of 1997) provides that the Ministry may adopt regulations to further regulate occupational safety and health issues. It notes the detailed draft regulations on the safe use of chemicals at work of 31 January 2003, which was attached to the Government’s report, but also notes that this draft text does not contain any rules with respect to ionizing radiation. The Committee asks the Government to provide information in its next report on measures taken or envisaged to ensure that workers are protected against ionizing radiation at work, particularly through issuing regulations under section 75 of the Occupational Safety and Health Act.

Article 3(1) of the Convention. Effective protection of workers in the light of knowledge available at the time. With respect to exposure limits to chemical substances and agents, the Committee notes that Annex 2 in the proposed regulations refers to the international standard established by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists. The Committee takes this opportunity to refer the Government to its general observation of 1992 under this Convention, in which the Committee refers to the exposure limits on ionizing radiation recommended by the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP), No. 60 (1990), according to which the permissible level of exposure to ionizing radiation for workers engaged in radiation work is recommended to be 20 mSv per year, averaged over five years, but not exceeding 50 mSv in any single year. The Committee requests the Government to provide further information on measures taken or envisaged to give effect to the Convention, taking due account of the recommendations of the ICRP referred to in the Committee’s general observation of 1992 under this Convention.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2010, published 100th ILC session (2011)

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 and the attached documentation. It notes that section 75(1)(b) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act (Act No. 32 of 1997) provides that the Ministry may adopt regulations to further regulate occupational safety and health issues. It notes the detailed draft regulations on the safe use of chemicals at work of 31 January 2003, which was attached to the Government’s report, but also notes that this draft text does not contain any rules with respect to ionizing radiation. The Committee asks the Government to provide information in its next report on measures taken or envisaged to ensure that workers are protected against ionizing radiation at work, particularly through issuing regulations under section 75 of the Occupational Safety and Health Act.

Article 3(1) of the Convention. Effective protection of workers in the light of knowledge available at the time. With respect to exposure limits to chemical substances and agents, the Committee notes that Annex 2 in the proposed regulations refers to the international standard established by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists. The Committee takes this opportunity to refer the Government to its general observation of 1992 under this Convention, in which the Committee refers to the exposure limits on ionizing radiation recommended by the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP), No. 60 (1990), according to which the permissible level of exposure to ionizing radiation for workers engaged in radiation work is recommended to be 20 mSv per year, averaged over five years, but not exceeding 50 mSv in any single year. The Committee requests the Government to provide further information on measures taken or envisaged to give effect to the Convention, taking due account of the recommendations of the ICRP referred to in the Committee’s general observation of 1992 under this Convention.

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

1. The Committee notes the information contained in the Government’s report and the attached documentation. It notes that section 75(1)(b) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act (Act No. 32 of 1997) provides that the Ministry may adopt regulations to further regulate occupational safety and health issues. It notes the detailed draft regulations on the safe use of chemicals at work of 31 January 2003, which was attached to the Government’s report, but also notes that this draft text does not contain any rules with respect to ionizing radiation. The Committee asks the Government to provide information in its next report on measures taken or envisaged to ensure that workers are protected against ionizing radiation at work, particularly through issuing regulations under section 75 of the Occupational Safety and Health Act.

2. Article 3, paragraph 1, of the Convention. Effective protection of workers in the light of knowledge available at the time. With respect to exposure limits to chemical substances and agents, the Committee notes that Annex 2 in the proposed regulations refers to the international standard established by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists. The Committee takes this opportunity to refer the Government to its general observation of 1992 under this Convention, in which the Committee refers to the exposure limits on ionizing radiation recommended by the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP), No. 60 (1990), according to which the permissible level of exposure to ionizing radiation for workers engaged in radiation work is recommended to be 20 mSv per year, averaged over five years, but not exceeding 50 mSv in any single year. The Committee requests the Government to provide further information on measures taken or envisaged to give effect to the Convention, taking due account of the recommendations of the ICRP referred to in the Committee’s general observation of 1992 under this Convention.

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

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 adoption of the Occupational Safety and Health Act, No. 32 of 1997. It further notes the Government’s indication that consultants from the ILO are in the process of drafting the Regulations to the above Act. In the absence of the text of the 1997 Occupational Safety and Health Act, No. 32, it has not been possible for the Committee to examine the extent to which the above Act applies the provisions of the Convention. It therefore requests the Government to supply a copy of this Act, as well as of its implementing Regulations, as soon as they are adopted. The Committee hopes that the Occupational Safety and Health Act, No. 32 of 1997, as well as the Regulations, will apply the provisions of this Convention and will, in particular, address the points raised by the Committee in its previous direct request which concerned the need to adopt provisions to ensure that there is:

–      consultation of representatives of employers and workers on the measures designed to give effect to the Convention (Article 1 of the Convention);

–      in the light of new knowledge, effective protection of workers against ionizing radiations and constant revision of the maximum permissible doses (Article 3, paragraph 1, and Article 6, paragraph 2);

–      finally, the notification of work involving exposure of workers to ionizing radiations (Article 10).

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2001, published 90th ILC session (2002)

The Committee notes the adoption of the Occupational Safety and Health Act, No. 32 of 1997. It further notes the Government’s indication that consultants from the ILO are in the process of drafting the Regulations to the above Act. In the absence of the text of the 1997 Occupational Safety and Health Act, No. 32, it has not been possible for the Committee to examine the extent to which the above Act applies the provisions of the Convention. It therefore requests the Government to supply a copy of this Act, as well as of its implementing Regulations, as soon as they are adopted. The Committee hopes that the Occupational Safety and Health Act, No. 32 of 1997, as well as the Regulations, will apply the provisions of this Convention and will, in particular, address the points raised by the Committee in its previous direct request which concerned the need to adopt provisions to ensure that there is:

-      consultation of representatives of employers and workers on the measures designed to give effect to the Convention (Article 1 of the Convention);

-      in the light of new knowledge, effective protection of workers against ionizing radiations and constant revision of the maximum permissible doses (Article 3, paragraph 1, and Article 6, paragraph 2);

-      finally, the notification of work involving exposure of workers to ionizing radiations (Article 10).

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

The Committee notes that the Government indicated in its report in December 1994 that a draft Occupational Safety and Health Act containing provisions on radiation protection was being prepared with ILO technical assistance. The Committee was also informed of the adoption in March 1996 of a National Plan of Action on Occupational Safety and Health which indicates that the above-mentioned draft Act is presently the subject of consultations and should be adopted soon. Referring to its previous direct request, and to the general observation made in 1992, the Committee hopes that the Government will be able to indicate in its next report the amendments that have been adopted and, in particular, the provisions taken to ensure that there is:

-- consultation of representatives of employers and workers on the measures designed to give effect to the Convention (Article 1 of the Convention);

-- in the light of new knowledge, effective protection of workers against ionizing radiation and constant revision of the maximum permissible doses (Article 3, paragraph 1, and Article 6, paragraph 2);

-- finally, the notification of work involving exposure of workers to ionizing radiation (Article 10).

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1994, published 81st ILC session (1994)

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:

I. 1. The Committee noted from the Government's reply in its 1982 report that legislation had not yet been enacted to give effect to Article 10 of the Convention which requires the notification of work involving exposure of workers to ionizing radiations. It hopes that in the next report the Government will be able to indicate that steps have been taken in this regard.

2. The Committee also noted that measures are still to be taken to ensure the application of Article 3, paragraph 1, and Article 6, paragraph 2, of the Convention, which require, in light of current knowledge, that all appropriate steps shall be taken to ensure the protection of workers and that dose limits shall be kept under constant review. In this regard, the Committee noted the information in the Government's first report that the Convention was applied by the United Kingdom Code of Practice for the Protection of Persons against Ionizing Radiations Arising from Medical and Dental Use. It requests the Government to indicate whether and under what provisions the revision of this Code in 1972 and the revision of the more general Code of Practice against Ionizing Radiations in 1985, in regard to medical and dental use, are applied in Guyana.

3. The Committee further requests the Government to supply copies of the Factories (Health and Welfare) Regulations No. 1951 and the Factories Act Cap 95:02.

II. The Committee would call the Government's attention to its general observation of 1992 under this Convention which sets forth, inter alia, the revised exposure limits established on the basis of new physiological findings by the International Commission on Radiological Protection in its 1990 Recommendations (Publication No. 60). The Committee would recall that, under Article 3, paragraph 1, and Article 6, paragraph 2, of the Convention, all appropriate steps shall be taken to ensure effective protection of workers against ionizing radiations and to review maximum permissible doses of ionizing radiations in the light of current knowledge. The Government is requested to indicate the steps taken or being considered in relation to the matters raised in the conclusions to the general observation.

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

I. The Committee notes from the Government's report that no change in the application of the Convention has occurred, but that proposals are still under consideration by the Government. It hopes that the Government's next report will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

1. The Committee noted from the Government's reply in its 1982 report that legislation had not yet been enacted to give effect to Article 10 of the Convention, which requires the notification of work involving exposure of workers to ionizing radiations. It hopes that in the next report the Government will be able to indicate that steps have been taken in this regard.

2. The Committee also noted that measures are still to be taken to ensure the application of Article 3, paragraph 1, and Article 6, paragraph 2, of the Convention, which require, in light of current knowledge, that all appropriate steps shall be taken to ensure the protection of workers and that dose limits shall be kept under constant review. In this regard, the Committee noted that the Government had indicated in its first report that the Convention was applied by the United Kingdom Code of Practice for the Protection of Persons against Ionizing Radiations Arising from Medical and Dental Use. It requests the Government to indicate whether and under what provisions the revision of this Code in 1972 and the revision of the more general Code of Practice against Ionizing Radiations in 1985, in regard to medical and dental use, are applied in Guyana.

3. The Committee further requests the Government to supply copies of the Factories (Health and Welfare) Regulations No. 1951 and the Factories Act Cap 95:02.

II. The Committee would call the Government's attention to its general observation of 1992 under this Convention which sets forth, inter alia, the revised exposure limits established on the basis of new physiological findings by the International Commission on Radiological Protection in its 1990 Recommendations (Publication No. 60). The Committee would recall that, under Article 3, paragraph 1, and Article 6, paragraph 2, of the Convention, all appropriate steps shall be taken to ensure effective protection of workers against ionizing radiations and to review maximum permissible doses of ionizing radiations in the light of current knowledge. The Government is requested to indicate the steps taken or being considered in relation to the matters raised in the conclusions to the general observation.

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

I. The Committee notes from the Government's report that no change in the application of the Convention has occurred since the Government's last report which was communicated in 1986. It hopes that the Government's next report will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

1. The Committee noted from the Government's reply in its 1982 report that legislation had not yet been enacted to give effect to Article 10 of the Convention, which requires the notification of work involving exposure of workers to ionising radiations. It hopes that in the next report the Government will be able to indicate that steps have been taken in this regard.

2. The Committee also noted that measures are still to be taken to ensure the application of Article 3, paragraph 1, and Article 6, paragraph 2, of the Convention, which require, in light of current knowledge, that all appropriate steps shall be taken to ensure the protection of workers and that dose limits shall be kept under constant review. In this regard, the Committee noted that the Government had indicated in its first report that the Convention was applied by the United Kingdom Code of Practice for the Protection of Persons against Ionising Radiations Arising from Medical and Dental Use. It requests the Government to indicate whether and under what provisions the revision of this Code in 1972 and the revision of the more general Code of Practice against Ionising Radiations in 1985, in regard to medical and dental use, are applied in Guyana.

3. The Committee further requests the Government to supply copies of the Factories (Health and Welfare) Regulations No. 1951 and the Factories Act Cap 95:02.

II. The Committee would call the Government's attention to its General Observation under this Convention which sets forth, inter alia, the revised exposure limits established on the basis of new physiological findings by the International Commission on Radiological Protection in its 1990 Recommendations (Publication No. 60). The Committee would recall that, under Article 3, paragraph 1, and Article 6, paragraph 2, of the Convention, all appropriate steps shall be taken to ensure effective protection of workers against ionising radiations and to review maximum permissible doses of ionising radiations in the light of current knowledge. The Government is requested to indicate the steps taken or being considered in relation to the matters raised in the conclusions to the General Observation.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1991, published 78th ILC session (1991)

The Committee notes that no report has been received from the Government. 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. The Committee noted from the Government's reply in its 1982 report that legislation had not yet been enacted to give effect to Article 10 of the Convention, which requires the notification of work involving exposure of workers to ionising radiations. It hopes that in the next report the Government will be able to indicate that steps have been taken in this regard.

2. The Committee also noted that measures are still to be taken to ensure the application of Article 3, paragraph 1, and Article 6, paragraph 2, of the Convention, which require, in light of current knowledge, that all appropriate steps shall be taken to ensure the protection of workers and that dose limits shall be kept under constant review. In this regard, the Committee noted that the Government had indicated in its first report that the Convention was applied by the United Kingdom Code of Practice for the Protection of Persons against Ionising Radiations Arising from Medical and Dental Use. It requests the Government to indicate whether and under what provisions the revision of this Code in 1972 and the revision of the more general Code of Practice against Ionising Radiations in 1985, in regard to medical and dental use, are applied in Guyana.

3. The Committee further requests the Government to supply copies of the Factories (Health and Welfare) Regulations No. 1951 and the Factories Act Cap 95:02.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1987, published 74th ILC session (1987)

1. The Committee notes from the Government's reply to its previous direct request that legislation has not yet been enacted to give effect to Article 10 of the Convention, which requires the notification of work involving exposure of workers to ionising radiations. It hopes that in the next report the Government will be able to indicate that steps have been taken in this regard.

2. The Committee also notes that measures are still to be taken to ensure the application of Article 3, paragraph 1 and Article 6, paragraph 2, of the Convention, which require, in light of current knowledge, that all appropriate steps shall be taken to ensure the protection of workers and that dose limits shall be kept under constant review. In this regard, the Committee notes that the Government had indicated in its first report that the Convention is applied by the United Kingdom Code of Practice for the Protection of Persons against Ionising Radiations Arising from Medical and Dental Use. It requests the Government to indicate whether and under what provisions the revision of this Code in 1972 and the revision of the more general Code of Practice against Ionising Radiations in 1985, in regard to medical and dental use, are applied in Guyana.

3. The Committee further requests the Government to supply copies of the Factories (Health and Welfare) Regulations No. 1951 and the Factories Act Cap 95:02.