Radiation Protection Convention, 1960 (No. 115) - Ghana (Ratification: 1961)

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 Conventions on occupational safety and health (OSH), the Committee considers it appropriate to examine Conventions Nos 115 (radiation protection), 119 (guarding of machinery), 120 (hygiene (commerce and offices)), 148 (air pollution, noise and vibration), and 184 (safety and health in agriculture) together.

Legislative reform and policy developments. In its previous comments, the Committee noted the Government’s reference to the development of a draft OSH Bill and draft OSH policy. The Committee notes in this regard that, according to the report of the Government, the reform is still ongoing and a number of points in the Committee’s previous comments would be dealt with in the context of the draft OSH Bill. The Government also indicates that tripartite consultations have taken place in this context. The Committee once again requests the Government to take into account the Committee’s comments in the context of its legislative reform, and to continue to provide information on the progress achieved in this regard.

Application of Conventions Nos 115, 119, 120, 148 and 184 in practice. The Committee notes the information provided by the Government on the 3,520 inspection visits conducted between 2021 and June 2024, which uncovered 207 labour law violations, including 38 violations for failing to provide safety equipment. The Government also indicates that there have been 302 accidents reported in 2024 at the time of the report. The Committee notes that the main types of occupational accidents recorded between 2021 and 2024, as listed by the Government, are those caused by machines, by chemicals, motor traffic accidents, and industrial accidents. The Committee requests the Government to continue to provide information on the application in practice of the Conventions, including on the number of occupational accidents and cases of occupational disease recorded as well as their causes. Noting the statistics provided, the Committee requests the Government to indicate the measures taken to decrease the number of occupational accidents involving machines, motor vehicles and chemicals, as well as other industrial accidents.

Protection against specific risks

Radiation Protection Convention, 1960 (No. 115)

Article 13(a) and (d) of the Convention. Duty to provide an appropriate medical examination and required remedial action based on technical findings and medical advice. Following its previous comments on this matter, the Committee notes the Government’s indication that, in accordance with the Workmen’s Compensation Act (PNDCL 187) of 1987, the employer is required to arrange for the employee to be medically examined by a medical practitioner, at no expense to the worker. The Committee notes that section 14 of the Workmen’s Compensation Act (PNDCL 187) of 1987 concerns medical examinations in the situation of an injury. The Committee requests the Government to indicate any other circumstances under which medical examinations are required because of the nature or degree of the exposure or a combination of both, and the measures ensuring that the employer shall take necessary remedial action on the basis of the technical findings and the medical advice.

Article 14. Discontinuation of assignment to work involving exposure to ionizing radiation pursuant to medical advice and alternative employment. Following its previous comments on the measures taken to give effect to this Article, the Committee notes the Government’s indication that employees are paid a retirement compensation subject to medical grounds, in situations where there are no vacancies or positions available in the establishment for a transfer. The Committee requests the Government to provide further information on the implementation of Article 14 in practice, with a view to ensuring that no worker shall be employed or shall continue to be employed in work with exposure to ionizing radiation contrary to qualified medical advice, including further information on measures for the provision of alternative employment.

Article 15. Inspection services. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that the Labour Department, the Department of Factories Inspectorate and the Ghana Standards Authority are mandated to carry out inspections in relation to the application of this Convention. The Committee observes that the annual Statistical Reports of the Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations of 2021 and 2022 contain information on the inspection activities of the Labour Department and of the Department of Factories, but do not contain specific information related to radiation work. In addition, the Committee notes that sections 71 to 74 of the Nuclear Regulatory Authority Act (No. 895), 2015, provide for the appointment of inspectors and their powers in relation to nuclear installations. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the inspection visits conducted by the inspectors of the Nuclear Regulatory Authority, the Labour Department, the Department of Factories Inspectorate, and the Ghana Standards Authority in relation to work involving exposure to radiation, and on their results.

Guarding of Machinery Convention, 1963 (No. 119)

Articles 1 and 17 of the Convention. Scope of application. The Committee previously noted the provisions of the Factories, Offices and Shops Act, 1970, and the Mining Regulations, 1970, giving effect to the Convention in factories, offices, shops and in the mining sector. In this respect, the Committee notes that the Government reiterates its commitment to ensuring that all sectors will be considered, in the context of the draft OSH Bill. The Committee notes that the statistics provided by the Government include machines as one of the causes of reported accidents, which have overall increased from 1,043 accidents in 2022, to 1,337 in 2023. The Committee firmly hopes that measures, including the adoption of the OSH Bill, will be taken in the near future to ensure the application of this Convention in all branches of economic activity. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the measures to address the rising number of accidents, and the measures taken in practice to ensure the application of this Convention in all sectors.

Working Environment (Air Pollution, Noise and Vibration) Convention, 1977 (No. 148)

Articles 4(2) and 8(1) of the Convention. Technical standards and establishing criteria for determining hazards. Following its previous comments on the ongoing process to adopt technical standards, the Committee notes the Government’s indication that technical standards will be finalized by the Ghana Standards Board and adopted as part of the OSH Bill. The Committee requests the Government to indicate the criteria established in this process for determining the hazards of exposure to air pollution, noise and vibration in the working environment, and to indicate the exposure limits fixed on the basis of those criteria.

Article 5. Consultations. In its previous comments, the Committee noted the Government’s reference to a tripartite body deliberating on issues related to the Convention. In the absence of any new information on this matter, the Committee once again requests the Government to provide information onthe nature of consultations held in the abovementioned tripartite body, and on any action taken as a result of those consultations.

Article 11. Medical examinations and alternative employment. Following its previous comments on the measures taken to give effect to Article 11, the Committee notes that the Government reiterates that prospective employees undergo pre-employment medical examinations at their own cost. The Government, however, indicates that regular medical examinations are provided at no cost to employees working in mining and hazardous environments, and that exit medical examinations are provided to such workers at the cost of the employer. The Committee once again recalls that, pursuant to Article 11(2), the medical supervision envisaged under Article 11(1) of the Convention, which includes a pre-assignment medical examination, shall be free of cost to the worker concerned. The Committee further observes an absence of information in response to its previous request concerning Article 11(3), on the transfer of workers to a suitable alternative employment or to maintain their income through social security or other measures, when continued assignment to work involving exposure to air pollution, noise or vibration is found to be medically inadvisable. The Committee once again requests the Government to indicate the measures taken to ensure that,where continued assignment to work involving exposure to air pollution, noise or vibration is found to be medically inadvisable, every effort shall be made to provide the worker concerned with suitable alternative employment or to maintain their income through social security measures or otherwise. The Committee also hopes that the draft OSH Bill, when adopted, will include specific provisions giving full effect to Article 11 of the Convention.

Article 12. Notification to the competent authority. Following its previous comments on the notification of the use of certain processes, substances, machinery and equipment to the Department of Factories Inspectorate, the Committee notes the Government’s indication that, during their registration or renewal, it is required to list substances, machinery and equipment used on the work premises in a form for submission to the Department of Factories Inspectorate. The Government further indicates that, upon inspection, recommendations for safe use are given to employers and workers, before the use of such substances, machinery and equipment. The Committee requests the Government to specify the processes, substances, machinery and equipment involving exposure of workers to occupational hazards in the working environment due to air pollution, noise or vibration, that are subject to this requirement of notification.

Protection in specific branches of activity

Safety and Health in Agriculture Convention, 2001 (No. 184)

Article 4(1) of the Convention. National policy on safety and health in agriculture. Following its previous comments on this matter, the Committee notes the Government’s indication that the Ghana Employers’ Association (GEA) has developed an OSH Management Guidelines for the agricultural sector, in consultation with stakeholders. The Committee nevertheless recalls that, under Article 4 of the Convention, Members shall formulate, carry out and periodically review a coherent national policy on safety and health in agriculture, in the light of national conditions and practice and after consulting the representative organizations of employers and workers concerned. In this regard, the Committee notes that the guidelines developed by the GEA indicate that the legal and policy framework currently regulating the management of OSH in Ghana is fragmented, with some overlaps. The Committee accordingly requests the Government to indicate the measures it has taken to formulate a coherent national policy on safety and health agriculture, and to provide information on the consultations that took place in this regard with the representative organizations of employers and workers concerned.

Article 5. Adequate and appropriate system of inspection. Following its previous comments, the Committee notes the Government’s statement that the labour inspectorate carries out inspections in all sectors, including the agricultural sector. In this regard, the Committee notes the Government’s indication that 145 inspection visits were carried out in the agricultural sector between 2021 and June 2024. The Committee requests the Government to provide further information on the activities of the labour inspectorate in the agricultural sector, including the manner in which the Government ensures that the labour inspectorate is provided with adequate means to carry out its duties in respect of agricultural workplaces.

Article 6(2). Cooperation between two or more employers in an agricultural workplace. In the absence of information on new measures taken in this regard, the Committee once again requests the Government to ensure, including in the context of the ongoing legislative reform on OSH, that whenever two or more employers undertake activities in an agricultural workplace, or one or more employers and one or more self-employed persons undertake activities, they shall cooperate in applying the safety and health requirements.

Article 7(a) and (c). Risk assessments and adoption of preventive and protective measures. Following its previous request concerning the measures taken to give effect to Article 7(a) and (c), the Committee notes the Government’s statement that it will include provisions in the draft OSH Bill regarding appropriate risk assessment and preventive and protection measures, as well as immediate steps to stop any operation where there is an imminent and serious danger to the safety and health of workers. The Committee requests the Government to take measures, including in the context of the ongoing legislative reform on OSH, to ensure that employers in agriculture: (i) carry out appropriate risk assessments in relation to the safety and health of workers and adopt preventive and protective measures to ensure that under all conditions of their intended use, all agricultural activities, workplaces, machinery, equipment, chemicals, tools and processes under the control of the employer are safe (Article 7(a)); and (ii) take immediate steps to stop any operation where there is an imminent and serious danger to safety and health and to evacuate workers as appropriate (Article 7(c)).

Article 8. Rights and duties of workers in agriculture and their representatives. Following its previous comments on the measures taken to give effect to Article 8(1)(a), (2) and (4), the Committee notes that the OSH Management Guidelines developed by the GEA sets out various OSH and duties that workers should have, including to be informed and consulted on OSH matters, to participate in the application and review of OSH measures and, in accordance with national law and practice, to select OSH representatives and representatives in OSH. The Government also refers to a manual on OSH measures, developed by the General and Agricultural Workers Union (GAWU). The Committee also notes the Government’s indication that sensitisation programmes are organised in practice, and that tripartite consultations have taken place in the context of the draft OSH Bill. The Committee requests the Government to indicate the measures that it has taken or envisages to take to provide for the rights and duties under Article 8(1) and (2) in the context of its legislative reform on OSH.

Articles 9 and 10. Machine safety. In the absence of information, the Committee once again requests the Government to indicate the specific measures taken to: (i) prescribe that machinery, equipment, including personal protective equipment, appliances and hand tools used in agriculture, comply with national or other recognized safety and health standards and be appropriately installed, maintained and safeguarded (Article 9(1)); (ii) ensure that manufacturers, importers and suppliers comply with such standards and provide adequate and appropriate information to the users and, on request, to the competent authority (Article 9(2)); and (iii) ensure that workers receive and understand the safety and health information supplied by manufacturers, importers and suppliers (Article 9(3)). In addition, the Committee once again requests the Government to take measures to ensure that national laws and regulations: (i) prohibit the use of all agricultural machinery and equipment for purposes other than those initially envisaged (Article 10(a)); and (ii) require that all agricultural machinery and equipment be operated by trained and competent persons (Article 10(b)).

Article 11. Handling and transport of materials. Following its previous comments on this matter, the Committee notes the Government’s reference to the OSH Management Guidelines developed by the GEA and the manual developed by the General and Agricultural Workers Union. The Committee recalls, however, that Article 11 provides for the competent authority to establish the relevant safety and health requirements for the handling and transport of materials, after consulting the representative organizations of employers and workers concerned. Accordingly, the Committee once again requests the Government to provide information on any further measures taken, including in the context of the legislative OSH reform, to establish safety and health requirements for the handling and transport of materials (Article 11(1)); as well as measures taken to ensure that workers do not engage in the manual handling or transport of a load which by reason of its weight or nature is likely to jeopardize their safety and health (Article 11(2)).

Article 12. Sound management of chemicals. Following its previous comments on this matter, the Committee notes the information provided by the Government regarding the system of registration, classification, licensing and packaging of pesticides under the Environmental Protection Agency Act (No. 490) of 1994 (EPA Act). Under section 28(1) of the EPA Act, a person shall not import, export, manufacture, distribute, advertise, sell or use a pesticide unless the pesticide has been registered by the Agency. The EPA Act further contains provisions related to the classification of pesticides and their approval or refusal by the Environmental Protection Agency. Under section 50(2) of the EPA Act, where a container, label or packaging is prescribed by the Environmental Protection Agency, it is prohibited to manufacture, import, export, distribute, advertise or sell a registered pesticide other than in the package or container prescribed, or to alter the label of a pesticide so as to misrepresent its nature. In addition, the Committee notes the Government’s indication that the management of hazardous waste and expired chemicals is regulated under the Hazardous and Electronic Waste Control and Management Act (No. 917) of 2016 and the Hazardous, Electronic and Other Wastes (Classification) Control and Management Regulations 2016. The Committee takes note of this information, which addresses its previous request.

Article 13. Preventive and protective measures in agriculture for the use of chemicals and handling of chemical waste at the level of the undertaking. Following its previous comments, the Committee notes the information provided by the Government in relation to the clauses of the Good Agricultural Practices for Ghana (Ghana GAP) (GS 949-1:2011) applicable to the storage of pesticides and fertiliser, to workers’ protective clothing and equipment, to annual health checks, and to the disposal of empty pesticide containers and obsolete pesticides. The Committee further notes that section 44 of the EPA Act sets out safeguards for the use of pesticides, including that a person shall not require or permit an employee to handle or use a pesticide in the course of employment without providing and requiring the employee to use protective facilities and clothing that will permit the safe handling of pesticides. The Committee requests the Government to provide further information on the implementation in practice of provisions of the EPA Act and the Ghana GAP (GS 949-1:2011) concerning the safe handling of pesticides and the disposal of containers and chemical waste. The Committee also requests the Government to indicate any preventive and protective measures prescribed that concern agricultural activities leading to the dispersion of chemicals (Article 13(2)(b)).

Article 14. Animal handling and protection against biological risks. Following its previous comments, the Committee notes the Government’s indication that the Ghana Standards Authority has no health and safety standards concerning the handling of biological agents and that it will take the necessary steps to consider this in the future adoption of standards. The Committee requests the Government to take measures to ensure that risks are prevented or kept to a minimum when biological agents are handled, and activities involving animals, livestock and stabling areas, comply with national or other recognized health and safety standards. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the developments in this regard.

Article 15. Agricultural installations. Following its previous comments requesting for information on the measures taken to apply Article 15, the Committee notes the Government’s indication that the Agriculture Engineering Services under the Ministry of Food and Agriculture are responsible for the construction, maintenance and repairing of agricultural installations that conform with national laws and regulations and safety and health requirements. The Committee requests the Government to specify the relevant national laws, regulations and safety and health requirements relevant to the construction, maintenance and repairing of agricultural installations.

Article 16. Young workers and hazardous work. Following its previous comments, in which it noted that the Government envisaged reviewing and updating the list of types of hazardous work under section 91 of the Children’s Act (No. 569) of 1998, the Committee notes the Government’s indication that the new list of hazardous works prohibited to young persons under 18 years of age has been developed, after consultations with social partners, and will be communicated once it has passed into law. With reference to its comment under the Worst Forms of Child Labour Convention, 1999 (No. 182), the Committee requests the Government to provide further information on the new list of hazardous works prohibited to young persons under 18 years of age, as well as any other measures taken to ensure that, in practice, children under 18 do not engage in hazardous work in agriculture (Article 16(1)).

Article 18. Pregnancy, breastfeeding and the reproductive health of women agricultural workers. Following its previous comments on the measures taken to give effect to this Article, the Committee notes that the Government refers to the existence of clauses in collective agreements, which include transferring pregnant women from work in environments involving harmful exposures to office schedules. The Committee also notes that the OSH Management Guidelines developed by the GEA recommend that systems and procedures should be put in place to ensure that pregnant or breastfeeding workers are not exposed to pesticides. The Committee requests the Government to provide further information on the measures taken to ensure that the special needs of women agricultural workers are taken into account in relation to pregnancy, breastfeeding and reproductive health.

Article 19. Welfare and accommodation facilities.The Committee once again requests the Government to provide information on the measures taken to prescribe the minimum accommodation standards for workers who are required by the nature of the work to live temporarily or permanently in the undertaking, pursuant to Article 19(b) of the Convention.

Article 21. Coverage for occupational injuries and diseases. Following its previous comments on the measures taken to give effect to this Article, the Committee notes the Government’s statement that all workers, including those in the agricultural sector, benefit from the social security scheme provided under the Workmen’s Compensation Act (PNDCL 187) of 1987. The Committee takes note of this information, which addresses its previous request.

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

Articles 6(2) and 7(2) of the Convention. Dose limits in occupational exposure and dose limits for persons between 16 and 18 years of age. Following its long-standing comments on this matter, the Committee notes the Government’s indication that there are currently no set maximum permissible doses with respect to the lens of the eye for radiation workers, but that the Ghana Standards Authority will include provisions in this regard in its 2025 guidelines. The Committee also notes that according to the 2022 annual report of the Nuclear Regulatory Authority and its web page, the Nuclear Regulatory Authority is working on drafting regulations on various aspects relating to radiation work, including Basic Ionising Radiation Regulations that aim to set dose limits and address exposure to ionizing radiation arising from work activities and natural radiation. The Committee recalls paragraphs 11, 13, 32 and 34 of its 2015 general observation on Convention No. 115, in which it drew the Government’s attention to the most recent recommendations of the International Commission on Radiological Protection, indicating: (i) an equivalent dose to the lens of the eye for radiation workers of 20 mSv averaged over defined periods of five years, with no single year exceeding 50 mSv per year; and (ii) an equivalent dose to the lens of the eye of 20 mSv/year for students between the ages of 16 and 18 who use sources of radiation in the course of their studies. The Committee requests the Government to take the necessary measures to fix the maximum permissible doses with respect to the lens of the eye for radiation workers, and to revise the maximum permissible doses, in the light of current knowledge, for students between the ages of 16 and 18, in accordance with Articles 6(2) and 7 of the Convention. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the measures taken in this regard, including on the development of any regulations by the Nuclear Regulatory Authority.

Article 8. Dose limits for workers not directly engaged in radiation work. Following its previous comments, in which it noted the Government’s indication that the effective dose limit for members of the public is of 5 mSv in a year, the Committee notes the Government’s indication that it has notified the Ghana Standards Authority to take the necessary measures to review those limits. The Committee notes that, according to section 5(b) of the Nuclear Regulatory Authority Act (No. 895), 2015, one of the functions of the Nuclear Regulatory Authority is to regulate the introduction of radiation sources, nuclear materials, equipment or practices that expose workers, patients, the public and the environment to radiation. The Committee also recalls paragraphs 14 and 35 of its 2015 general observation, in which it drew the Government’s attention to the most recent recommendations of the International Commission on Radiological Protection, indicating that the dose limits for workers not directly engaged in radiation work are those to be applied to members of the public, particularly an annual effective dose limit of 1 mSv. The Committee requests the Government to take the necessary measures to review the maximum permissible doses for workers not directly engaged in radiation work, in the light of current knowledge, and to indicate the measures taken in this regard, including information on the development of regulations by the Nuclear Regulatory Authority.

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

Direct Request (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, and in particular to the request for information contained in paragraph 30 thereof.

Articles 6(2) and 7(2) of the Convention. Dose limits in occupational exposure and dose limits for persons between 16 and 18 years of age. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that for apprentices between 16 and 18 years of age, the equivalent dose to the lens of the eye is of 50 mSv in a year. In addition, the Committee notes that the information provided by the Government on the dose limits for radiation workers does not establish the applicable limit for the lens of the eye. With reference to paragraphs 11, 13, 32 and 34 of its 2015 general observation, the Committee draws the Government’s attention to the most recent recommendations of the International Commission on Radiological Protection according to which the equivalent dose to the lens of the eye for radiation workers should be 20 mSv averaged over defined periods of five years, with no single year exceeding 50 mSv per year, and for students between the ages of 16 and 18 who use sources of radiation in the course of their studies, an equivalent dose to the lens of the eye of 20 mSv/year. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the maximum permissible dose established with respect to the lens of the eye for radiation workers. It also requests the Government to provide information on measures taken to review the maximum permissible doses established with respect to the lens of the eye for apprentices between 16 and 18 years of age, in light of current knowledge.

Article 8. Dose limits for workers not directly engaged in radiation work. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that the effective dose limit for members of the public is of 5 mSv in a year. In this respect, the Committee draws the Government’s attention to paragraphs 14 and 35 of its 2015 general observation which state that the dose limits for workers not directly engaged in radiation work are those to be applied to members of the public, particularly an annual effective dose limit of 1 mSv, and that a higher value of effective dose can be allowed in a single year, provided that the average, over five years, does not exceed 1 mSv per year. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on measures taken to review the maximum permissible doses established for workers not directly engaged in radiation work, in light of current knowledge.

Article 13(a) and (d). Duty to provide an appropriate medical examination and required remedial action based on technical findings and medical advice. The Committee notes that no information is provided on the effect given to these provisions of the Convention. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the measures taken or envisaged to specify the circumstances in which, because of the nature or degree of the exposure or a combination of both, workers shall undergo an appropriate medical examination and the circumstances in which employers shall take any necessary remedial action on the basis of the technical findings and the medical advice.

Article 14. Discontinuation of assignment to work involving exposure to ionizing radiation pursuant to medical advice and alternative employment. The Committee notes that the Government has not provided information on the effect given to this Article of the Convention. In this regard, the Committee would like to draw the Government’s attention to paragraph 40 of its 2015 general observation, which provides that if it is medically inadvisable to subject a worker to further exposure to ionizing radiations, reasonable efforts should be made to provide such a worker with suitable alternative employment. The Committee invites the Government to provide information on any measures taken or envisaged related to the provision of suitable alternative employment in circumstances for which it has been determined that workers, for health reasons, may no longer continue in employment in which they are or could be subject to occupational exposure to radiations.

Article 15. Inspection services. The Committee notes that no information is provided in the Government’s report on the inspection services established to supervise the application of the Convention. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the measures taken to provide appropriate inspection services for the purpose of supervising the application of the provisions of the Convention.

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

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:

Repetition

Follow-up to technical assistance. The Committee has been informed that technical assistance aiming at ensuring an effective follow-up to its comments on the application of this Convention was provided in 2011. The Committee invites the Government to provide detailed information on the outcome of this technical assistance.

Pending comment

The application of all Articles of the Convention. With reference to the Government’s report submitted in 2006, the Committee had noted that the Government indicated that the radiation protection and safety guides were non-binding documents. The Committee notes, however, that in the report submitted the Government seems to indicate that these guides are legally binding and adopted with a view to ensuring the application of the Convention. In terms of relevant legislation, the Committee also notes that the Government indicated that Act No. 204 of 1963 has been abrogated by the Atomic Energy Act No. 588 of 2000. As the Government has not provided the Committee with a copy of this recent Act, it has not been in a position to verify whether the Regulation No. 1559 of 1993, regulating, inter alia, the control and use of sources of ionizing radiation and exposure of persons to ionizing radiation, adopted in implementation of the abrogated Act, is still in force or not. The Committee also notes that the Government indicates that according to the new Labour Code of 2003, the Ministry of Labour entitled to adopt regulations providing for specific measures to be taken by employers to safeguard the health and safety of workers employed by them, but that this has not yet been done. In view of the foregoing, and with reference to the general observation of 1992 on the application of this Convention, the Committee requests the Government to take all relevant measures to ensure the full application of this Convention, in law and in practice. The Government is also requested to clarify the legal status of the radiation protection and safety guides, and whether Regulation No. 1559 of 1993 is still in force. The Government is invited to take due account of the recommendations concerning maximum dose limits for exposure to ionizing radiation adopted in 1990 by the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) and is finally requested to submit copies of all relevant legislative texts to the Committee.

Part V of the report form. Application in practice. The Committee requests the Government to give a general appreciation of the manner in which the Convention is applied in the country, supplying, for example, statistical information on the number of workers covered by the measures giving effect to the Convention, extracts from reports of the inspection services and information concerning the number and nature of contraventions reported and any action taken, etc.

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

Follow-up to technical assistance. The Committee has been informed that technical assistance aiming at ensuring an effective follow-up to its comments on the application of this Convention was provided in 2011. The Committee invites the Government to provide detailed information on the outcome of this technical assistance.

Pending comment

The application of all Articles of the Convention. With reference to the Government’s report submitted in 2006, the Committee had noted that the Government indicated that the radiation protection and safety guides were non-binding documents. The Committee notes, however, that in the report submitted the Government seems to indicate that these guides are legally binding and adopted with a view to ensuring the application of the Convention. In terms of relevant legislation, the Committee also notes that the Government indicated that Act No. 204 of 1963 has been abrogated by the Atomic Energy Act No. 588 of 2000. As the Government has not provided the Committee with a copy of this recent Act, it has not been in a position to verify whether the Regulation No. 1559 of 1993, regulating, inter alia, the control and use of sources of ionizing radiation and exposure of persons to ionizing radiation, adopted in implementation of the abrogated Act, is still in force or not. The Committee also notes that the Government indicates that according to the new Labour Code of 2003, the Ministry of Labour entitled to adopt regulations providing for specific measures to be taken by employers to safeguard the health and safety of workers employed by them, but that this has not yet been done. In view of the foregoing, and with reference to the general observation of 1992 on the application of this Convention, the Committee requests the Government to take all relevant measures to ensure the full application of this Convention, in law and in practice. The Government is also requested to clarify the legal status of the radiation protection and safety guides, and whether Regulation No. 1559 of 1993 is still in force. The Government is invited to take due account of the recommendations concerning maximum dose limits for exposure to ionizing radiation adopted in 1990 by the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) and is finally requested to submit copies of all relevant legislative texts to the Committee.

Part V of the report form. Application in practice. The Committee requests the Government to give a general appreciation of the manner in which the Convention is applied in the country, supplying, for example, statistical information on the number of workers covered by the measures giving effect to the Convention, extracts from reports of the inspection services and information concerning the number and nature of contraventions reported and any action taken, etc.

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

The Committee notes the Government’s reply that the Labour Department is awaiting a response from the competent authority in order to enable it to adequately address the concerns previously raised by the Committee. The Committee further notes that the Government seeks technical assistance in training of reporting officers and relevant partners so as to improve the reporting performance as well as the application of the Convention in law and practice. The Committee requests the Government to keep the Office informed of any progress in this respect and invites the Government to make a formal request to the Office for technical assistance in the development of legislation giving effect to the provisions of the Convention.

[The Government is asked to report in detail in 2012.]

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

1. The Committee notes the information provided by the Government in its most recent report including replies to the Committee’s previous comments. It requests the Government to provide the following additional information.

2. The application of all Articles of the Convention. With reference to the Government’s report submitted in 2006, the Committee had noted that the Government indicated that the radiation protection and safety guides were nonbinding documents. The Committee notes, however, that in this year’s report the Government seems to indicate that these guides would be legally binding and adopted with a view to ensuring the application of the Convention. In terms of relevant legislation, the Committee also notes that the Government indicated that Act No. 204 of 1963 would have been abrogated by the Atomic Energy Act No. 588 of 2000. As the Government has not provided the Committee with a copy of this recent Act, it has not been in a position to verify whether the Regulation No. 1559 of 1993, regulating, inter alia, the control and use of sources of ionizing radiation and exposure of persons to ionizing radiation, adopted in implementation of the abrogated Act, would still be in force or not. The Committee also notes that the Government indicates that according to the new Labour Code of 2003 the Ministry of Labour would be entitled to adopt regulations providing for specific measures to be taken by employers to safeguard the health and safety of workers employed by them, but that this has not yet been done. In view of the foregoing, and with reference to the general observation of 1992 on the application of this Convention, the Committee requests the Government to take all relevant measures to ensure the full application of this Convention, in law and in practice. The Government is also requested to clarify the legal status of the radiation protection and safety guides and whether Regulation No. 1559 of 1993 is still in force. The Government is invited to take due account of the recommendations concerning maximum dose limits for exposure to ionizing radiation adopted in 1990 by the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) and is finally requested to submit copies of  all relevant legislative texts to the Committee.

3. Part V of the report form. Application in practice. The Committee requests the Government to give a general appreciation of the manner in which the Convention is applied in the country, supplying, for example, statistical information on the number of workers covered by the measures giving effect to the Convention, extracts from reports of the inspection services and information concerning the number and nature of contraventions reported and the action taken on them, etc.

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

1. The Committee notes the information contained in the Government’s report. However, it notes that the Government’s report does not contain any reply to the Committee’s previous comments. The Committee is therefore obliged to repeat its previous observation and urges the Government to provide detailed information on the following points:

1. The application of all Articles of the Convention. The Committee has on numerous occasions previously drawn attention to the urgent need for the Government to adopt legislative binding measures in order to ensure the full application of the Convention. Unfortunately, the Committee notes from the Government’s latest report that it still has not provided any reply to previous comments, that it continues to refer to the Radiation Protection and Safety Guides it has adopted, which the Government recognizes are not legally binding and which therefore do not ensure the application of the Convention. The Committee also notes that the Government still has not provided copies of documents required by the Committee for an appropriate appreciation of the manner in which the Convention is applied in Ghana. The Committee therefore feels obliged to once again repeat its previously expressed serious concern of the manner in which the Government applies the Convention and hopes that measures are taken with urgency in order to ensure the full effective protection of workers against ionizing radiation at the workplace, based on the dose limits for exposure adopted by the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) in 1990. The Committee urges the Government to provide detailed information in its next report on all legislative measures taken or envisaged to ensure the full application of the Convention.

2. The Committee notes the reference made by the Government to Radiation Protection Instrument No. 1559 of 1993, adopted under the Atomic Energy Act No. 204 of 1963, regulating inter alia the control and use of radiation sources and application of ionizing radiation to persons. Noting that a new Atomic Energy Act was adopted in 2000 (Act No. 588 of 2000), the Committee requests the Government to clarify whether Act No. 204 of 1963 has been replaced or supplemented by Act No. 588 of 2000, to provide a copy of the latter Act and to provide information in its next report on measures taken or envisaged to adopt a new radiation protection instrument in order to ensure the effective protection of workers against ionizing radiation at the workplace.

3. The Committee also notes from reports submitted under Convention Nos. 29, 98 and 182 that on 8 October 2003 a new Labour Act (Act No. 651) has been adopted and that it entered into force on 31 March 2004, indicating that legislative measures are in the process of being undertaken. It notes in particular that Part XV regulates general safety and health conditions and that sections 121 and 174(e) provide the possibility for the minister to issue regulations providing for specific measures to be taken by employers to safeguard the health and safety of workers employed by them. The Committee also notes that under section 122(a) labour inspections shall be carried out in order to ensure the enforcement of provisions relating to the safety, health and welfare of workers under the Labour Act. The Committee requests the Government to provide information in its next report on measures taken or envisaged to issue legally binding instruments under the Labour Act in order to give effect to the Convention and to provide copies of any proposed and/or adopted legislation. It also asks the Government to provide information with its next report on labour inspections carried out with respect to radiation work.

[The Government is asked to reply in detail to the present comments in 2007.]

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

1. The application of all Articles of the Convention. The Committee has on numerous occasions previously drawn attention to the urgent need for the Government to adopt legislative binding measures in order to ensure the full application of the Convention. Unfortunately, the Committee notes from the Government’s latest report that it still has not provided any reply to previous comments, that it continues to refer to the Radiation Protection and Safety Guides it has adopted, which the Government recognizes are not legally binding and which therefore do not ensure the application of the Convention. The Committee also notes that the Government still has not provided copies of documents required by the Committee for an appropriate appreciation of the manner in which the Convention is applied in Ghana. The Committee therefore feels obliged to once again repeat its previously expressed serious concern of the manner in which the Government applies the Convention and hopes that measures are taken with urgency in order to ensure the full effective protection of workers against ionizing radiation at the workplace, based on the dose limits for exposure adopted by the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) in 1990. The Committee urges the Government to provide detailed information in its next report on all legislative measures taken or envisaged to ensure the full application of the Convention.

2. The Committee notes the reference made by the Government to the Radiation Protection Instrument No. 1559 of 1993, adopted under the Atomic Energy Act No. 204 of 1963, regulating inter alia the control and use of radiation sources and application of ionizing radiation to persons. Noting that a new Atomic Energy Act was adopted in 2000 (Act No. 588 of 2000), the Committee requests the Government to clarify whether Act No. 204 of 1963 has been replaced or supplemented by Act No. 588 of 2000, to provide a copy of the latter Act and to provide information in its next report on measures taken or envisaged to adopt a new radiation protection instrument in order to ensure the effective protection of workers against ionizing radiation at the workplace.

3. The Committee also notes from reports submitted under Convention Nos. 29, 98 and 182 that on 8 October 2003 a new Labour Act (Act No. 651) has been adopted and that it entered into force on 31 March 2004, indicating that legislative measures are in the process of being undertaken. It notes in particular that Part XV regulates general safety and health conditions and that sections 121 and 174(e) provide the possibility for the minister to issue regulations providing for specific measures to be taken by employers to safeguard the health and safety of workers employed by them. The Committee also notes that under section 122(a) labour inspections shall be carried out in order to ensure the enforcement of provisions relating to the safety, health and welfare of workers under the Labour Act. The Committee requests the Government to provide information in its next report on measures taken or envisaged to issue legally binding instruments under the Labour Act in order to give effect to the Convention and to provide copies of any proposed and/or adopted legislation. It also asks the Government to provide information with its next report on labour inspections carried out with respect to radiation work.

[The Government is asked to reply in detail to the present comments in 2006.]

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

The Committee takes note of the Government’s last report. With reference to its previous comments, the Committee draws the Government’s attention to the following points that urgently need to be addressed by the Government in order to comply with the provisions of the Convention.

1. The Committee notes the Radiation Protection and Safety Guides, GRPB - G1 to G5, adopted in 1995 and 1998 respectively containing provisions on the qualification and certification of radiation protection personnel (GRPB - G1), the notification and authorization by registration or licensing, exemptions and exclusions (GRPB - G2), dose limits (GRPB - G3), inspection (GRPB - G4), and the safe use of X-rays (GRPB - G5). The Committee notes that the provisions to be found in the guides enclose substantive provisions which respond to a number of the requirements set forth in the provisions of the Convention. It notes, however, the Government’s indication, confirmed by the prefaces to these guides, that the Radiation Protection and Safety Guides are only supporting documents and therefore do not have any legal, thus binding, effect. In this regard, the Committee recalls its comments, which it had made for more than 15 years, explaining that non-binding guides do not suffice for the application of the Convention. In order to ensure effective protection of workers, regarding their health and safety, against ionising radiation, as provided for in Article 3, paragraph 1, of the Convention, the Government must take the necessary measures by means of laws or regulations, which do not leave it to the discretion of the employer whether or not he puts into operation the provisions contained therein. The Committee therefore again urges the Government to take the necessary measures to ensure effective protection of workers against ionising radiations, in compliance with the provisions of the Convention. In this context, the Committee refers to the Government’s declarations, contained in its reports since 1968, that a Bill, entitled the Radiation Protection Bill, to give legal effect to the provisions of the guides was under preparation. The Committee had noted in its previous comments that the adoption of the Bill has been postponed because of reorganization measures taken following a change of the Government. The Committee observes that the Government does not refer any more to this Bill in its report. The Committee accordingly requests the Government to indicate whether it continues to envisage the adoption of this Bill, or whether the legislative process has been renounced. The Committee moreover notes that, according to the Government’s indications, the Radiation Protection and Safety Guide, GRPB - G3, contains the BSS dose limitation system for occupational exposure to ionising radiation. However, as this text has not been available to the Committee, it has not been in a position to examine its content in order to assess the extent to which this text would apply Articles 3 and 6, paragraph 1, of the Convention, even though this Guide does not have force of law. The Committee accordingly again strongly suggests that the Government take the necessary steps to ensure that the text designed to give effect to the Convention, for which the preparations started more than 30 years ago, is adopted in the near future. The Committee requests the Government to keep the Office informed on any progress made in this regard.

2. Article 8. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that the annual dose limit, established in the Radiation Protection and Safety Guide, GRPB - G3, is 5 mSv for members of the public. The Committee recalls paragraph 14 of its 1992 general observation under the Convention, in which it refers to the dose limits for exposure adopted in 1990 by the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP), since they reflect the current knowledge which is the determining factor for the establishment of the dose limits for the different categories of workers (Article 3, paragraph 1, and Article 6, paragraph 2, of the Convention). The ICRP fixes the annual dose limit for the general public at 1 mSv. In view of this fact, the Committee hopes that the Government will take the necessary measures to reduce the annual dose limit for exposure to ionising radiations of the public from 5 mSv to 1 mSv.

3. Article 12. The Committee notes the Government’s indication, according to which pre-employment medical examinations and subsequent medical examinations have to be carried out for workers exposed to ionising radiation in the course of their work. As to the periodicity of the medical examinations during the employment, the Government specifies that medical examinations are required every six months if the exposure exceeds 6 mSv. The Committee requests the Government to indicate the legal basis providing for the indicated medical examinations of workers.

4. Article 13(b). The Committee notes the Government’s indication that the licensee/registrant of an authorization for using ionising radiation is required to notify to the Radiation Protection Board any incident that might lead to an overexposure requiring protective action and the steps taken to bring the situation under control. The Government is asked to indicate the legal basis.

5. Further to its previous comments, the Committee notes that the following provisions of the Convention are not even covered by the Radiation Protection and Safety Guides: Article 13(a) and (d) (circumstances under which, due to the nature and/or degree of exposure, workers shall undergo appropriate medical examinations, necessary remedial action to be taken by the employer on the basis of the technical findings and the medical advice); and Article 14 (provision of alternative employment to radiation workers who have already received an effective dose beyond which they would suffer a detriment considered to be unacceptable). The Committee urges the Government to take the necessary measures to address these matters through regulations that are enforceable.

6. Finally, the Committee requests the Government to supply a copy of the Radiation Protection and Safety Guide, GRPB - G3, on dose limits.

The Committee reiterates its firm hope that the Government will make every effort to take the necessary action without any further delay.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2000, published 89th ILC session (2001)

The Committee notes that the Government’s report has not been received. It must therefore repeat its previous observation which reads as follows:

With reference to its previous comments, the Committee notes the Government’s indication in its latest report that the issue raised by the Committee has been given consideration and the appropriate response is being prepared.

The Committee recalls that its previous observations read as follows:

I.  In comments it has been making for over 15 years, the Committee has noted that protection against hazards due to radiation has only been provided by means of the non-binding Code of Practice for the Protection of Persons Exposed to Ionizing Radiations; the Committee had also taken note of the Government’s indication that a Radiation Bill was being prepared in order to give legal effect to the Code of Practice. In its 1989 observation, the Committee noted the Government’s indication that the Radiation Bill had still not been adopted, but that it would be given prompt attention upon the re-establishment of the National Advisory Committee on Labour. The Committee notes from the Government’s report, received in 1991, that there has been no change in the application of the Convention.

The Committee would call the Government’s attention to its general observation under this Convention which sets forth the revised system of radiological protection adopted by the International Commission on Radiological Protection on the basis of new physiological findings 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, in particular as regards bringing the Radiation Bill under preparation into conformity with the present state of knowledge.

The Committee hopes that the Radiation Bill with any necessary amendments will soon be adopted and that it also will ensure the application of the following provisions of the Convention which are not covered by the Code of Practice: Article 9, paragraph 2 (instructions to be given to workers as to the precautions to be taken for their health and safety when working with ionizing radiations); Article 13(a), (b) and (d) (circumstances under which, due to the nature and/or degree of exposure, workers shall undergo appropriate medical examinations, employers shall notify the competent authority and shall take any necessary remedial action on the basis of the technical findings and the medical advice); and Article 14 (to ensure that no worker is employed or continues to be employed in work involving exposure to ionizing radiations contrary to qualified medical advice). The Government is requested to indicate the progress made in these respects.

II.  The Government is requested to provide information concerning the methods by which application of the Code of Practice is presently supervised and enforced, as requested under Part III of the report form, as well as any relevant extracts from official reports concerning the practical application of the Convention, as called for under Part IV of the report form.

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

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

With reference to its previous comments, the Committee notes the Government's indication in its latest report that the issue raised by the Committee has been given consideration and the appropriate response is being prepared.

The Committee recalls that its previous observations read as follows:

I. In comments it has been making for over 15 years, the Committee has noted that protection against hazards due to radiation has only been provided by means of the non-binding Code of Practice for the Protection of Persons Exposed to Ionizing Radiations; the Committee had also taken note of the Government's indication that a Radiation Bill was being prepared in order to give legal effect to the Code of Practice. In its 1989 observation, the Committee noted the Government's indication that the Radiation Bill had still not been adopted, but that it would be given prompt attention upon the re-establishment of the National Advisory Committee on Labour. The Committee notes from the Government's report, received in 1991, that there has been no change in the application of the Convention.

The Committee would call the Government's attention to its general observation under this Convention which sets forth the revised system of radiological protection adopted by the International Commission on Radiological Protection on the basis of new physiological findings 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, in particular as regards bringing the Radiation Bill under preparation into conformity with the present state of knowledge.

The Committee hopes that the Radiation Bill with any necessary amendments will soon be adopted and that it also will ensure the application of the following provisions of the Convention which are not covered by the Code of Practice: Article 9, paragraph 2 (instructions to be given to workers as to the precautions to be taken for their health and safety when working with ionizing radiations); Article 13(a), (b) and (d) (circumstances under which, due to the nature and/or degree of exposure, workers shall undergo appropriate medical examinations, employers shall notify the competent authority and shall take any necessary remedial action on the basis of the technical findings and the medical advice); and Article 14 (to ensure that no worker is employed or continues to be employed in work involving exposure to ionizing radiations contrary to qualified medical advice). The Government is requested to indicate the progress made in these respects.

II. The Government is requested to provide information concerning the methods by which application of the Code of Practice is presently supervised and enforced, as requested under point III of the report form, as well as any relevant extracts from official reports concerning the practical application of the Convention, as called for under point IV of the report form.

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

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 1995, published 83rd ILC session (1996)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government's report has not been received. It must therefore repeat its previous observation which read as follows:

I. In comments it has been making for over 15 years, the Committee has noted that protection against hazards due to radiation has only been provided by means of the non-binding Code of Practice for the Protection of Persons Exposed to Ionizing Radiations; the Committee had also taken note of the Government's indication that a Radiation Bill was being prepared in order to give legal effect to the Code of Practice. In its 1989 observation, the Committee noted the Government's indication that the Radiation Bill had still not been adopted, but that it would be given prompt attention upon the re-establishment of the National Advisory Committee on Labour. The Committee notes from the Government's report, received in 1991, that there has been no change in the application of the Convention. The Committee would call the Government's attention to its general observation under this Convention which sets forth the revised system of radiological protection adopted by the International Commission on Radiological Protection on the basis of new physiological findings 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, in particular as regards bringing the Radiation Bill under preparation into conformity with the present state of knowledge. The Committee hopes that the Radiation Bill with any necessary amendments will soon be adopted and that it also will ensure the application of the following provisions of the Convention which are not covered by the Code of Practice: Article 9, paragraph 2 (instructions to be given to workers as to the precautions to be taken for their health and safety when working with ionizing radiations); Article 13(a), (b) and (d) (circumstances under which, due to the nature and/or degree of exposure, workers shall undergo appropriate medical examinations, employers shall notify the competent authority and shall take any necessary remedial action on the basis of the technical findings and the medical advice); and Article 14 (to ensure that no worker is employed or continues to be employed in work involving exposure to ionizing radiations contrary to qualified medical advice). The Government is requested to indicate the progress made in these respects. II. The Government is requested to provide information concerning the methods by which application of the Code of Practice is presently supervised and enforced, as requested under point III of the report form, as well as any relevant extracts from official reports concerning the practical application of the Convention, as called for under point IV of the report form.

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

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

The Committee notes that no report has been received from the Government. It must therefore repeat its previous observation on the following matters:

I. In comments it has been making for over 15 years, the Committee has noted that protection against hazards due to radiation has only been provided by means of the non-binding Code of Practice for the Protection of Persons Exposed to Ionizing Radiations; the Committee had also taken note of the Government's indication that a Radiation Bill was being prepared in order to give legal effect to the Code of Practice. In its 1989 observation, the Committee noted the Government's indication that the Radiation Bill had still not been adopted, but that it would be given prompt attention upon the re-establishment of the National Advisory Committee on Labour. The Committee notes from the Government's report, received in 1991, that there has been no change in the application of the Convention. The Committee would call the Government's attention to its general observation under this Convention which sets forth the revised system of radiological protection adopted by the International Commission on Radiological Protection on the basis of new physiological findings 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, in particular as regards bringing the Radiation Bill under preparation into conformity with the present state of knowledge. The Committee hopes that the Radiation Bill with any necessary amendments will soon be adopted and that it also will ensure the application of the following provisions of the Convention which are not covered by the Code of Practice: Article 9, paragraph 2 (instructions to be given to workers as to the precautions to be taken for their health and safety when working with ionizing radiations); Article 13(a), (b) and (d) (circumstances under which, due to the nature and/or degree of exposure, workers shall undergo appropriate medical examinations, employers shall notify the competent authority and shall take any necessary remedial action on the basis of the technical findings and the medical advice); and Article 14 (to ensure that no worker is employed or continues to be employed in work involving exposure to ionizing radiations contrary to qualified medical advice). The Government is requested to indicate the progress made in these respects. II. The Government is requested to provide information concerning the methods by which application of the Code of Practice is presently supervised and enforced, as requested under point III of the report form, as well as any relevant extracts from official reports concerning the practical application of the Convention, as called for under point IV of the report form.

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

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

I. In comments it has been making for over 15 years, the Committee has noted that protection against hazards due to radiation has only been provided by means of the non-binding Code of Practice for the Protection of Persons Exposed to Ionising Radiations; the Committee had also taken note of the Government's indication that a Radiation Bill was being prepared in order to give legal effect to the Code of Practice. In its previous observation, the Committee noted the Government's indication that the Radiation Bill had still not been adopted, but that it would be given prompt attention upon the re-establishment of the National Advisory Committee on Labour. The Committee notes from the Government's report that there has been no change in the application of the Convention.

The Committee would call the Government's attention to its general observation under this Convention which sets forth the revised system of radiological protection adopted by the International Commission on Radiological Protection on the basis of new physiological findings 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, in particular as regards bringing the Radiation Bill under preparation into conformity with the present state of knowledge.

The Committee hopes that the Radiation Bill with any necessary amendments will soon be adopted and that it also will ensure the application of the following provisions of the Convention which are not covered by the Code of Practice: Article 9, paragraph 2 (instructions to be given to workers as to the precautions to be taken for their health and safety when working with ionising radiations); Article 13(a), (b) and (d) (circumstances under which, due to the nature and/or degree of exposure, workers shall undergo appropriate medical examinations, employers shall notify the competent authority and shall take any necessary remedial action on the basis of the technical findings and the medical advice); and Article 14 (to ensure that no worker is employed or continues to be employed in work involving exposure to ionising radiations contrary to qualified medical advice). The Government is requested to indicate the progress made in these respects.

II. The Government is requested to provide information concerning the methods by which application of the Code of Practice is presently supervised and enforced, as requested under point III of the report form, as well as any relevant extracts from official reports concerning the practical application of the Convention, as called for under point IV of the report form.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 1989, published 76th ILC session (1989)

With reference to its previous observations, the Committee notes from the Government's report that the Radiation Bill has still not been adopted, but that it will be given prompt attention upon the re-establishment of the National Advisory Committee on Labour. The Committee can only reiterate the hope that the Bill, to which reference has been made for more than 15 years, will be adopted without further delay and that a copy will be sent with the next report.