Policy - Safety and Health
Section: Human Resource Policies
Policy Owner: Ignition633 Ministries Nigeria Human Resources
Policy Name: Safety and Health Policy
Origination Date: November 2024
Purpose
This policy ensures a safe, healthy, and productive work environment for all employees following Nigerian Labour Law and the National Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Policy. It establishes our commitment to preventing workplace accidents, injuries, and illnesses through effective risk management, safety training, and compliance with health and safety regulations.
Scope
This policy applies to all employees, contractors, and visitors within our premises. It covers safety protocols, health and hygiene standards, emergency response procedures, and access to restricted areas. The policy also outlines the responsibilities of both management and staff in maintaining a safe workplace.
Health and Safety Standards
We are committed to maintaining high health and safety standards in all work areas.
The Ministry will:
- Ensure compliance with all health and safety regulations outlined in the Nigerian Labour Law and the National OSH Policy.
- Implement regular safety audits and risk assessments to identify and control potential hazards.
- Provide appropriate safety equipment, training, and resources for a secure work environment.
- Establish hygiene standards supporting employee health, including adequate sanitation, rest, and refreshment facilities.
Employee Responsibilities
Employees are required to:
- Present their ID badges to access the campus. A new badge is issued annually, and a fee of N1,000 applies for replacements due to loss.
- Comply with all Ministry and department safety instructions and protocols provided.
- Use personal protective equipment (PPE) as mandated for specific tasks.
- Report unsafe conditions, incidents, and injuries immediately to their supervisor or the HR department.
- Participate in health and safety training sessions and adhere to emergency procedures.
- Seek prior approval from Campus Director before inviting visitors to the Campus.
Ministry Responsibilities
The Ministry will:
- Conduct risk assessments to identify workplace hazards and implement necessary control measures.
- Provide regular safety training and ensure employees understand the risks associated with their tasks.
- Enforce adherence to safety rules and corrective measures for non-compliance.
- Maintain documentation of all safety audits, training sessions, and incident reports.
Emergency Procedures
In line with the National OSH Policy, the Ministry has established emergency protocols, which include:
- Clear evacuation plans posted in accessible areas.
- Regular emergency drills to ensure employees are prepared for fire, gas leaks and security threats ((e.g., fire evacuation drill, lockdown, etc).
- On-site first aid facilities and trained personnel to manage medical emergencies.
Restricted Areas
To protect staff safety and comply with regulatory guidelines:
- Certain areas within the Ministry's facility, including machinery rooms, chemical storage areas, and high-risk zones, are restricted to authorized personnel only.
- If granted access for work-related purposes, Employees must observe all signage and barriers indicating restricted areas and follow all safety protocols.
- Unauthorized entry into restricted areas will result in corrective action as outlined in our corrective policy.
Health and Wellness Programs
To promote overall employee well-being, the Ministry will:
- Provide access to health screenings, counseling, and wellness programs.
- Encourage physical and mental wellness through supportive workplace policies and activities.
- Offer leave entitlements per Nigerian Labour Law to support employee health and family responsibilities.
Surveillance and Security
The Ministry will:
- Install security cameras to monitor key areas for safety.
- Hire Guards to ensure property protection and access control.
Monitoring and Compliance
The Ministry will:
- Conduct routine inspections and audits to ensure compliance with this policy and OSH standards.
- Review and update the Staff Safety and Health Policy regularly to remain in line with legal requirements.
- Cooperate with relevant authorities during inspections or investigations related to workplace health and safety.
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This policy will be reviewed annually and is subject to change. Any changes will be communicated to all employees promptly.
For any questions or further assistance regarding this policy, employees should contact the HR department at hr.nigeria@ignition633.org.